Many animals or insects tend to see the roof spaces or attic of a home as a safe haven, especially during the cold season. These little critters would take advantage of our need to stay warm and dry this winter to do the same for themselves by moving into your roof voids and wall cavities.
Some people are unbothered by having possums and birds on their roof, assuming that they do not cause any harm. However, these animals are a nightmare for homeowners. This is because pests can harm your roof’s quality and durability if they linger for too long, leading to costly repairs in the future.
While some roof pests can be seen quickly by homeowners, others can successfully hide from sight. However, they leave some signs of their presence that makes it easy to tell if you have unwanted tenants in your attic or roof.
Noises in your Roof
There are plenty of stories wherein people get rudely awaken by unidentified noises on the roof. However, this isn’t an immediate indication of an infestation. Sometimes, it can be caused by issues in some parts of your roof, such as a loose pipe, panel or piece of siding, or even a faulty electrical component.
You can tell that the source of the noises in your roof depending on its consistency. Listen carefully for the unusual sounds above your head. A household-related issue has a more consistent noise. In contrast, the squeaking and screeching of animals are more erratic and unpredictable.
Animal Droppings in the Area
The appearance of droppings is one of the most common signs of pest infestation. Not only can their droppings make a considerable mess, but they also expose your home to parasites such as worms and mites. Keep a lookout for tiny pieces of fecal matter and urine stains, which isn’t as difficult as you may think.
Small pellet-shaped droppings are more likely from either mice or bats. Droppings from more massive creatures like squirrels, possums, and raccoons are easy to spot with their thicker oblong-shaped droppings. Insects are a different story. You’ll need to get up close to verify it is insect droppings as it’s easy to mistake them for pieces of dirt or dust.
If you continuously find pigeon droppings on your roof, you may want to inspect your roofing as soon as possible. Pigeons produce uric acid that can eat away at your asphalt shingles or other roofing materials if left to sit on your roof for a long time. As a result, your roof will become more susceptible to leaks.
Damage to the Structures
If unwanted pests live on your roof, you could find some severe structural damage to the roof and attic. Animals such as raccoons and rats enjoying chewing on things like your electrical wiring or the wood in your attic. They can even shred insulation to the point that it will become challenging to keep your house at the desired temperature.
Observe the attic area closely for scratches on the floor, random holes, gnaw marks on the walls and furniture, insulation pieces to your vents, or frayed wiring. However, the one that should probably be feared most is termites. The internal structure of many roofs is mostly made of wood, which termites essentially consume. As termites eat away, it will gradually weaken their support.
Nesting
As temperature plummets, animals look for shelter from the cold just as humans do. These little critters would live in unexpected areas such as underneath floorboards and on the roofing beams. When pests settle down, they will use any available materials like leaves, twigs, and even scraps of paper to make a nest.
Odd smells
Besides the noises on your roof, strange smells could also mean that pests take up residence in your roof or the attic. Mice or other rodents tend to give off a musty, urine, ammonia-like smell. Oily odors similar to “fecal soy sauce” may indicate that there are roaches present.
A pest living on your roof can cause severe damage or even start a fire. If you notice these pest infestation signs, take the necessary steps to get the problem solved as soon as possible. You might also need the help of a reliable contractor like Fahey Roofing Contractors to come and make roof repairs, too.
Fahey Roofing Contractors is the trusty roofing contractor that will help with necessary roof repairs and replacement. Check out our residential and commercial roofing services on our website or contact us at (304) 826-1333 to learn more.