Do you hear funny noises or see unexplained damage on your roof? If you do, it might be because of unwanted critters that cause roof damage. You might need to investigate getting these animals removed to prevent any further harm to your roof. Read on to find out more about the animals that cause roof damage and how you can deal with them.
What Can Damage Your Roof?
Unwanted critters aren’t the only thing that can damage your roof. There are several things that can wreak havoc on it. These include:
- Unwanted critters
- Ice or snow
- Falling trees
- Harsh weather (heavy winds, rain, etc.)
- Clogged gutters
- Moisture
- UV exposure
Pests and The Damage They Cause to Your Roof
In Arizona, there are certain pests that can ruin roofs. Each critter can do its own type of damage, so knowing what’s wrong with your roof might give you a clue to what pest is causing it.
Termites
Termites can cause panic in any homeowner. These tiny bugs munch on wood that makes up the structure and roof of most homes. This can cause major problems for any home and may even be dangerous. Unfortunately, termites usually aren’t discovered until excessive damage has already been done. If you discover that you have termites, you should call an exterminator as soon as possible.
Mice and Rats
Mice and rats can ruin your roof by chewing through it, causing holes and other damage. They also might move into the rafters of your home, where they can multiply quickly and make things even worse.
Bees
While bees are good for the stability of our planet, they sure aren’t something you want in your roof. Bee colonies, which can contain thousands of bees, may choose to make their home out of the materials from your roof. This can put you and your roof’s safety at risk.
Birds
Like bees and mice, birds can damage your roof if they decide to build their nest inside it. Usually, birds live up in the eaves or small corners of your roof, making it hard to see them and know that they’re there. If birds use your roof’s material to build their nest, it may mean problems for your roof.
From the outside, birds can damage your roof by breaking open food like acorns on your roof’s surface using their beak.
What are Arizona Roof Rats?
Roof Rats are small rats that are great at climbing. They are thin and have big eyes and ears with a pointed nose and a long tail. They are usually brown with black spots and have a white, gray, or black underbelly. Roof rats tend to enter your roof by traveling from tree branches onto roofs. They can be found in small corners in roofs, attics, walls, cabinets, and sometimes even in a plumbing system.
How Do You Keep Critters Off Your Roof?
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your roof safe from critters. You don’t want to wait until it’s too late to do something about it. Here are some ways you can keep critters off your roof:
- Trim tree branches.
- Regularly clean your gutters.
- Keep an eye on your attic.
- Look into metal roofing.
- Get a roof inspection the second you notice something suspicious.
- Ensure that your insulation is thick.
- Don’t leave trash out in your house.
Get A Free Roof Inspection
No one wants to deal with a critter-infested roof. If you think your roof might have an animal problem, you should get an inspection as soon as possible. At Roofstar Arizona, we offer free roof inspections for homeowners in the Phoenix-Mesa area. Call (480) 426-1915 today to set one up.