Pests that Can Cause Damage to Your Roof

Roofing materials are becoming more impervious to weather conditions and other issues that can cause undue wear and tear. However, there are certain live pests that are difficult to keep at bay that may find your roof a great ‘nesting’ place. Watch for the following nuisances as they can be more than an inconvenience – they can be a financial problem if you are not careful.

• Birds are everywhere. While people mistakenly believe they like to build nests in trees, that is not always true. Birds are just as inclined to create homes on your roof and when that happens it can lead to a variety of problems. First, bird droppings are highly acidic which can have a long-term negative effect on your roofing materials. Too, they can get stuck in your gutter system resulting in a need for repairs. Birds are actually quite messy and can spread disease so if you see birds on your roof you should contact a roofing professional to have them removed.
  
• Squirrels are equally as widespread. They are quite adept at climbing and like to chew on roofing materials. Before long, you may find a squirrel has gotten into your home through the roof and caused extensive damage as well. Homeowners are advised to have their roof inspected at regular intervals to ensure there is no evidence of squirrels.
  
• Bees, wasps and hornets tend to gravitate to roofs. Besides being dangerous to the home’s occupants, there are certain types of bees that can tunnel into the roof and structure of the house, leaving the home open for large scale damage. If you suspect you have bees, wasps or hornets then contact a roofing specialist to address the problem.
  
• Ants can be highly destructive. Carpenter ants are able to bore into the roof, just as carpenter bees do, and damage the home’s roof and structure. Again, the best defense is a good offense. Have your roof inspected by a professional twice a year to ensure any problems can be caught early.
  
• Mice and rats. The thought of them nesting and making themselves comfortable as they bore through your roof is not pleasant; however it is not uncommon to find mice and even rats setting up homes in your home.

Contact Macbeth Exteriors for a biannual roof inspection. Your roof is the first line of your home’s defense!