How to Keep Squirrels Out

🐿️ Squirrels Are Harmless—Until They Move In

Squirrels may look harmless, but once they invade your attic, they can chew wires, shred insulation, and turn your quiet home into a noisy playground. In the Triangle region, squirrel activity spikes during fall and early spring—making proactive roof and attic protection essential.

🌳 Trim Tree Branches Near the Roof

Squirrels are agile jumpers. If tree limbs hang within 10 feet of your roof, they act as launchpads. Regular trimming not only deters squirrels but also protects shingles from moisture and debris buildup. Schedule a roof inspection to assess tree proximity and roofline vulnerabilities.

🛠️ Seal Entry Points

Common squirrel entry zones include soffits, fascia boards, attic vents, and roof intersections. Use metal flashing or hardware cloth to block gaps. Look for chew marks, lifted shingles, or warped trim—these are signs of attempted entry. For attic ventilation strategies that double as pest deterrents, check out this guide from the National Park Service.

🧼 Eliminate Attractants

Squirrels are drawn to food and nesting materials. Remove bird feeders near the roofline, secure trash bins, and keep compost piles covered. Inside the attic, reduce clutter—cardboard boxes, fabric, and insulation scraps are prime nesting materials.

🧪 Use Natural Repellents

Natural deterrents like peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, or predator urine can discourage squirrels from lingering. Apply near known entry points and reapply after rain. Ultrasonic repellents offer a non-invasive option, but results vary by attic layout and squirrel behavior.

🧰 Install Physical Barriers

Prevent access with spike strips, slippery guards, and pest-rated chimney caps. Vent covers should be metal—not plastic—and securely fastened. For attic airflow upgrades that also block pests, explore attic ventilation options.

🧑‍🔧 Call a Professional

If squirrels are nesting inside, DIY solutions may backfire. Humane removal is essential—trapping without sealing leads to repeat invasions. A licensed wildlife expert can evict and exclude safely. Contact Artisan Quality Roofing for attic inspections, exclusion strategies, and roof repairs tailored to Apex-area homes.

🏡 Triangle Tip from Artisan Quality Roofing

In Raleigh, Cary, and Apex, squirrel nesting peaks in cooler months. Book a seasonal roof inspection before fall or early spring. Ask about attic sealing, soffit reinforcement, and vent upgrades designed for local conditions and building codes.