How to Close the Gap in an Attic Against Squirrels
Many people consider wild squirrels to be cute and harmless arboreal rodents until they take refuge in an attic. Squirrels see an attic as a safe refuge from predators such as raccoons and owls to give birth to the next generation. Although removing the squirrels from the attic can be difficult, closing the gap your resident squirrels made is relatively simple. The squirrels may try to come back inside, but as long as your patchwork is done correctly, you should not fear returning tenants. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Cut a piece of steel mesh screen that is at least six inches wider than the gap you are covering. This ensures that the persistent squirrels do not simply chew around your patch by attacking the weakened area of the wall.
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Secure the sheet of steel mesh over the gap with heavy-duty steel bolts. Squirrels cannot chew through steel and this will act as a deterrent.
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Look around the interior and exterior of the attic for other holes and gaps that a squirrel could fit through. Close any holes with sealant or caulking to keep squirrels and other wildlife from invading the attic.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean out the attic space after the squirrels have been shut out to remove feces and repair chewed electrical wires or water pipes.
Make sure that all squirrels are removed from the attic before attempting to seal them out. Any stranded animals may burrow into other portions of your house or make a nasty smell when they die in the walls.
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Resources
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