As the winter chill sets in across the UK, a leading roofing expert is issuing a stark warning to homeowners: act now to protect your property from small invaders seeking shelter from the cold. Creatures like rats and squirrels are on the hunt for warm nesting spots, and your loft or roof vents could be their ideal destination.
The Hidden Danger in Your Loft
According to Alex Morrisey, Managing Director of Best Roofers, a UK-based firm with over two decades of experience, winter is "prime time" for roof infestations. "Animals are desperately seeking shelter," he explains. The problem often starts deceptively small. A tiny gap in the roof, no larger than the width of a pencil, is enough for a mouse to squeeze through. More robust squirrels can gnaw through wood to create their own entry points.
Once inside, the consequences can be devastating and expensive. These unwelcome guests can cause hundreds of pounds in damage by chewing on electrical wiring, creating a fire hazard, and burrowing through insulation, compromising your home's energy efficiency.
How to Spot an Unwanted Visitor
Morrisey cautions that many people only realise they have a problem when it has already escalated. However, there are key signs to watch for:
- Droppings in the loft or eaves.
- Damaged or disturbed insulation.
- Chewed wood or electrical wiring.
- Scratching or scurrying noises, especially at night.
If you notice any of these red flags, it is crucial to investigate immediately to prevent further damage.
Top Tips for a Pest-Free Roof This Winter
Taking proactive steps now can save you the significant headache and cost of calling in pest control and scheduling repairs later. Alex Morrisey shares his essential advice for fortifying your home.
Seal Every Possible Entry Point
Be thorough in your inspection, paying special attention to areas where pipes or cables enter the building, as these are common weak spots. Use materials like wire mesh, caulk, or expanding foam to seal any gaps, cracks, or holes. For larger openings, you may need to replace damaged tiles or boards.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Tree branches that touch or come within two metres of your roof provide a perfect highway for squirrels and rats. Cutting them back is a simple yet effective way to remove this easy access route to your property.
Install Vent Guards and Chimney Caps
Roof vents and chimneys are frequently overlooked entry points. Birds, squirrels, and rats can easily enter through these unprotected openings. The expert advises fitting mesh guards over vents and investing in chimney caps. These measures create a vital barrier while maintaining proper ventilation.
Maintain Clean Gutters
Gutters clogged with autumn leaves and debris are a magnet for rodents, offering both nesting materials and moisture. This moisture can rot wooden fascia boards, weakening your roofline. Cleaning your gutters at least twice a year, particularly in autumn, removes this temptation and helps preserve your roof's structure.
By following this expert guidance, you can help ensure your home remains a warm sanctuary for you and your family, not for pests, throughout the winter months.
