A key part in successfully removing a critter from a property deals with locating the critters access points. The location of these points can help expedite the removal process, but also ensure proper seals are put in place to exclude critters from reentering. Where and what should one look for when inspecting a home for access points? There are multiple key signs to watch out for.
When taking into consideration the size of most critters and a general rule of thumb that “if their heads can fit they can pull the rest of their bodies through” it can be hard to spot such small holes. Luckily, most critters are creatures of habit and usually target similar access points. On houses critters typically will look for the “seams” of the house where pipes run through or pieces of trim come together. These seams can swell open over time breaking the seal of the house and offer an entrance for interested critters. These gaps in the construction of the home are also referred to as construction gaps. In some cases we find that the tough to reach out of sight seams of homes are simply neglected or forgotten to be covered in the first place. Keep an eye on your home from top to bottom. When looking around the foundation and sides of the house, look for vents and utility lines, making sure they are sealed properly. In some cases you cannot see the holes unless you’re in the attic or on the roof. If you cannot access the roof or attic, look for schmutz or grime left behind from the critters.
Critters like raccoons and squirrels usually have dirt and grime on the bottom of their paws. Bats will usually have an oily sheen on their bodies. When these critters climb up the sides of houses their paw prints are usually left behind. Bats can leave behind dark staining where they squeeze through construction gaps for entry. This can give insight to where the critters access points are. Keep in mind that when a hole is torn open there usually will be debris around that area. Shingles and or insulation laying on the yard or misplaced on the roof can also indicate critter entry points.
When critters are looking for ways to enter a property they’re scoping for vulnerable areas they can squeeze though or weaknesses they can tear through. Critters will target areas where two or more pieces of trim connect and start to swell open or where pipes and vents are unprotected. Keep your eyes peeled for anything that looks misplaced or unusual. Look for smudges or prints left on downspouts or pieces of siding. You may notice a chimney cap or row of shingles laying in your yard . Critters will usually leave a trail to follow. Once the critters access points are identified they can be removed and excluded from the property efficiently.