Can Squirrels Chew Through Vinyl Siding? Understanding the Risks and Prevention
Yes, squirrels can and often do chew through vinyl siding. This is usually driven by their need to sharpen their teeth, find nesting materials, or seek shelter, causing significant damage to homes.
The Alluring Appeal of Vinyl Siding to Squirrels
Squirrels, particularly the eastern gray squirrel, are opportunistic rodents with a constant need to gnaw. Their incisors grow continuously, and chewing helps them keep these teeth at a manageable length. While vinyl siding may seem unappealing, several factors make it attractive to squirrels:
- Accessibility: Vinyl siding often extends to the ground or is close to trees, providing easy access.
- Texture: The siding’s texture provides a suitable surface for gripping and chewing.
- Underlying Insulation: The insulation behind the siding offers a softer, more accessible material to work with, making it an appealing entry point for nesting.
- Existing Damage: Any existing cracks or holes in the siding make it significantly easier for squirrels to start chewing and expanding the damage.
Why Squirrels Chew: More Than Just Gnawing
The simple explanation of squirrels needing to gnaw isn’t the full story. Understanding the reasons behind their chewing habits helps in prevention.
- Sharpening Teeth: As mentioned, the constant growth of their incisors necessitates regular gnawing.
- Creating Entry Points: Squirrels often chew to create or enlarge openings for nesting, especially in attics or wall cavities.
- Seeking Nesting Materials: They may strip off pieces of siding to use as nesting material inside walls or attics.
- Exploring and Curiosity: Young squirrels, in particular, are curious and may chew on siding simply to explore their environment.
Assessing the Damage and Identifying Squirrel Activity
Recognizing the signs of squirrel damage early can prevent more extensive problems.
- Visible Chew Marks: Look for ragged edges or small holes in the vinyl siding.
- Scratching Noises: Hearing scratching or scampering sounds from within the walls or attic is a strong indicator of squirrel activity.
- Droppings and Debris: Finding squirrel droppings or nesting material near the siding is another sign.
- Damaged Vegetation: Check for chewed tree branches or damaged bird feeders near the house, as these attract squirrels.
Prevention Strategies: Protecting Your Home
The best approach is a multi-faceted strategy that combines deterrents, habitat modification, and professional assistance when necessary.
- Habitat Modification:
- Trim tree branches that overhang the roof.
- Remove bird feeders that attract squirrels.
- Seal any existing holes or cracks in the siding and roof.
- Deterrents:
- Use squirrel-resistant bird feeders (if you choose to have them).
- Apply commercially available squirrel repellents (check reviews and ensure they are safe for use around your home and pets).
- Install motion-activated sprinklers to deter squirrels from approaching the house.
- Professional Assistance: If you have a persistent squirrel problem, consider contacting a wildlife removal service.
Repairing Squirrel Damage to Vinyl Siding
Repairing damaged siding is essential to prevent further damage and maintain the integrity of your home.
- Minor Damage (Small Holes): Use a vinyl siding repair kit to patch small holes. These kits typically include a color-matched sealant or patching compound.
- Extensive Damage (Large Holes or Cracks): Replace the damaged siding panel. This requires removing the adjacent panels and replacing the damaged section.
- Underlying Damage: If squirrels have accessed the wall cavity, inspect for damage to insulation, wiring, or plumbing. Repair or replace any damaged components.
The Cost of Squirrel Damage
Ignoring squirrel damage can lead to significant financial burdens.
- Siding Repair/Replacement: Costs can range from a few dollars for a small patch to hundreds or thousands of dollars for extensive siding replacement.
- Insulation Damage: Repairing or replacing damaged insulation can be costly, especially if it’s contaminated with urine or droppings.
- Structural Damage: Untreated squirrel infestations can lead to structural damage to the home, such as rotting wood or damaged electrical wiring.
- Health Concerns: Squirrels can carry diseases and parasites that pose a health risk to humans.
Choosing Squirrel-Resistant Building Materials
When building or renovating, consider using materials that are less appealing to squirrels.
- Fiber Cement Siding: While not entirely squirrel-proof, fiber cement siding is more resistant to damage than vinyl siding.
- Metal Siding: Metal siding is highly durable and difficult for squirrels to chew through.
- Proper Installation: Ensure that siding is properly installed and sealed to prevent access points for squirrels.
Legal Considerations
Before taking any action to remove or control squirrels, be aware of local laws and regulations regarding wildlife management. Some areas may have restrictions on trapping or relocating squirrels. Contact your local wildlife agency for information on legal requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if squirrels are living in my attic?
Listen for scratching, scampering, or gnawing sounds, especially in the early morning or late evening. Look for droppings, nesting materials, or stains on the ceiling. An inspection of your attic might also reveal their presence.
What smells deter squirrels from chewing on siding?
Squirrels are repelled by strong scents such as peppermint oil, garlic, and capsaicin (found in chili peppers). Commercial squirrel repellents often contain these ingredients. Reapply frequently, especially after rain.
Can I use traps to get rid of squirrels?
Trapping squirrels can be effective, but it’s crucial to check local regulations first. Use humane traps and release squirrels at least five miles away from your property. Consider hiring a professional wildlife removal service for trapping.
Are there any plants that deter squirrels?
Certain plants, such as mint, daffodils, and marigolds, are believed to deter squirrels due to their strong scents or textures. Planting these around your home may help reduce squirrel activity.
What is the best time of year to squirrel-proof my house?
Fall is the ideal time to squirrel-proof your house, as squirrels are preparing for winter and seeking shelter. Seal any potential entry points before they move in.
Do squirrels chew through other types of siding besides vinyl?
Yes, squirrels can chew through wood siding, cedar shakes, and even some types of metal siding, although they typically prefer softer materials.
Will mothballs keep squirrels away from my siding?
While some people use mothballs as a deterrent, they are not recommended. Mothballs contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans and animals.
How can I prevent squirrels from climbing my downspouts?
Wrap downspouts with smooth metal flashing to prevent squirrels from gripping the surface. You can also install guards or barriers to deter them from climbing.
Is it safe to handle squirrels if I catch them?
No, it is not safe to handle squirrels. They can bite and carry diseases. Wear gloves and protective clothing if you must handle a trap containing a squirrel.
What should I do if I find a baby squirrel?
If you find a baby squirrel that appears orphaned, contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center. They can provide the proper care and release the squirrel back into the wild.
How often should I inspect my siding for squirrel damage?
Inspect your siding at least twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall. Early detection of damage can prevent more extensive problems.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover squirrel damage?
Possibly. It depends on your insurance policy and the cause of the damage. Some policies cover damage caused by wildlife, while others may exclude it. Contact your insurance company for clarification.