Throughout the year, animal pests around the world will make their way inside homes and cause extensive damage leaving the owner with an empty wallet after the repairs.
Many times, the homeowner isn't aware that these events are even taking place and will find out only after the problem has escalated.
These animals can destroy attic insulation, chew wiring, urinate and defecate, and bring in disease-ridden parasites.
Many people, while stuck in the aftermath of an infestation, are left asking, "Could I have prevented this?" It can absolutely be prevented.
Unfortunately, during the construction of a home, builders will often leave gaps and voids around certain areas of a house.
Animal pests will take advantage of these gaps and enter the home and, if needed, enlarge the entry points by chewing or tearing.
One area is what as known as a common builder's gap and is located between the edge of the roof decking and the top of the fascia board (board that gutters attach to).
This area is the most common construction gap, especially in the south.
Animals such as squirrels, rats, bats, and even snakes will take advantage of this gap.
The gap can be properly sealed by a professional wildlife control company so that no animals can enter.
Another very common animal entry point is the gable vent.
Most houses will have a thin screen stapled to the inside of the gable vent.
Unfortunately, animals will push, tear, or chew right threw the flimsy screen and enter the attic or ceiling void.
Bats will commonly hang just inside the vent and defecate down the side of the house.
The vent can be sealed with a screen made of hardware cloth attached neatly to the outside of the vent.
This job is best left to the professionals because it can be an eye sore if not done properly.
Other construction gaps include roof returns, bathroom vents, ridge vents, and many other places.
All these gaps can be sealed by a professional wildlife company.
Although these gaps are overlooked by the builder and the homeowner, they should still be addressed.
In the animal and pest control industry, sealing a home is what is called an exclusion.
Many wildlife and pest control companies offer free inspections for exclusion services.
It is a great idea for a homeowner to get an inspection done so that they may prevent an animal invasion or know if they are already in the midst of one!