Last week we talked about the importance of having insulation in your attic. This week we would like to discuss something totally different. Something you shouldnt have in your attic. That something would be wildlife. Wildlife does not belong in your attic. Whether there are raccoons, opossum, squirrels, birds, bats or bees in your attic, they need to be permanently removed.
Probably one of the most unnerving scenarios to have happen during a home inspection is to open the attic entrance and see two (or more) eyes looking back at you. It doesnt matter who you are, unless you are expecting it, you will be startled (this is when the inspector tries to be cool and not fall off the ladder). Once that happens, the inspection inside the attic is usually complete.
So how are those unwanted guests getting in the house? There are many possible entry points that will need to be looked at. Attic vents on the roof, on the gable ends or in the soffit area are always the first suspected areas. It is possible there is a hole in the roof. Some animals can claw right through a shingled roof. The opening does not need to be big. You would be surprised how small an opening is required for a raccoon to fit through.
At this point it is usually recommended to hire a professional to remove the wildlife in a humane manner. Some companies, such as All Thats Wildlife, Inc., will remove the wildlife and critter proof your home for you. This would be the ideal solution so the pests will not be able to get back in if they return.
Next you need to determine the extent of the damage in the attic and have that repaired. Animals that live in your attic can do a lot of damage in a short time. Insulation may need to be removed and replaced depending on the severity of the damage. At the very least, it will need to be re-distributed. Exposed wiring will need to be inspected for damage and repaired if needed. Areas containing feces and urine will need to be cleaned and disinfected. The longer the wildlife is in the attic, the more damage will occur and the more costly the repairs will be.
Most Beautiful Attic Design Ideas
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