6 Effective Strategies to Prevent Pesky Squirrels from Invading Your Cumming Home

Cumming, Georgia, with its abundance of trees and natural beauty, is an ideal sanctuary not just for humans, but for wildlife as well. Squirrels, in particular, can become a real nuisance when they decide to take up residence in your attic or crawlspaces. Their constant gnawing, scratching, and exploring can cause substantial damage to your property and become a major source of stress.

If you're hearing mysterious noises coming from your roof or attic, or have noticed signs of chewed wires or damaged insulation, you might have a squirrel problem. Don't wait for the situation to worsen! Here are six effective squirrel removal strategies you can implement in your home today:

1. Seal Up Entry Points

Squirrels are agile climbers and resourceful creatures. Even the smallest crack or opening in your roofline, soffits, fascia boards, or around chimneys can be an invitation for them to enter your home. Conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior, paying close attention to areas where rooflines meet walls, vent pipes protrude, and utility lines enter your home. Look for any gaps, holes, or potential entry points.

Once you've identified these entry points, seal them permanently. Use appropriate materials like caulk, metal flashing, or hardware cloth to close up any gaps. Remember, squirrels can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so ensure a tight seal. For larger openings, consider consulting a professional handyman or contractor to ensure a proper and long-lasting fix.

2. Maintain a Clean and Tidy Home

Squirrels are constantly searching for food and shelter. Leaving food scraps, crumbs, or pet food readily available indoors or around your property can attract them. Practice good sanitation habits by keeping your kitchen counters clean, storing food in airtight containers, and disposing of garbage regularly. Make sure pet food bowls are emptied after feeding times and avoid leaving uneaten pet food outdoors.

Additionally, cluttered attics or crawlspaces can provide squirrels with a sense of security and potential nesting materials. Organize your attic and remove any unnecessary items that could be attractive to these furry invaders.

3. Eliminate Food Sources Around Your Property

Beyond what you have inside, your yard could be a smorgasbord for squirrels. Bird feeders, overflowing compost bins, and fruit trees laden with ripe fruit can all be magnets for these resourceful animals. Consider relocating bird feeders away from your house, or using squirrel-proof feeders with baffles to deter them. Maintain your compost bin properly and ensure it's tightly sealed. If you have fruit trees, harvest ripe fruit promptly and clean up any fallen fruit from the ground.

4. Utilize Natural Scents Squirrels Dislike

Squirrels have a keen sense of smell. Certain natural scents can be quite unpleasant to them, acting as deterrents. Here are a few readily available options you can try:

• Peppermint Oil: Sprinkle cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil around potential entry points or in your attic (if safe to do so). The strong minty scent can be quite repulsive to squirrels.
• Cayenne Pepper: Mix cayenne pepper with water and spray it around potential entry points (make sure it's not in areas where pets or children can come into contact).
• Mothballs: While not the most pleasant odor for humans either, the strong scent of mothballs can repel squirrels. However, be cautious, as mothballs can be toxic if ingested, so use them with care and keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Important Note: Be sure to reapply these natural repellents regularly, especially after rain or heavy winds.

5. Trim Vegetation Around Your Home

Tree branches that overhang your roof or come in close proximity to your home can act as a highway for squirrels, allowing them easy access to your roof and potential entry points. Keep tree branches trimmed back at least 6 feet from your house to eliminate convenient pathways for squirrels. This will not only keep them from reaching your roof but also allow for better sunlight penetration, making your attic a less desirable nesting location.

6. Utilize Safe and Effective Repellents

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, squirrels may persist. In such cases, consider using commercially available squirrel repellents. Opt for products specifically labeled for squirrel removal and ensure they are safe for use around your home and pets. These repellents often come in granular or spray forms and can be applied around potential entry points and areas frequented by squirrels.

When DIY Methods Fall Short, Partner with Catch A Critter

While these strategies can be highly effective deterrents, preventing a determined squirrel invasion can sometimes prove challenging. If you've implemented these measures and squirrels are still causing problems, it's time to call in the professionals.

Catch A Critter, Cumming's trusted wildlife removal specialists, have the expertise and experience to handle even the most stubborn squirrel infestations. Here's what sets Catch A Critter apart:

• Safe and Humane Removal: Our experienced technicians prioritize the safety and well-being of both your family and the squirrels. We use humane exclusion techniques to remove squirrels from your property without causing harm.
• Comprehensive Inspection and Sealing: We conduct a thorough inspection to identify all potential entry points and use high-quality materials to seal them permanently, preventing future invasions.
• Attic Restoration (if needed): If squirrels have already taken up residence in your attic and caused damage, Catch A Critter offers comprehensive attic restoration services. We can clean up any debris, remove contaminated insulation, and address any structural damage caused by the squirrels.
• Peace of Mind: With Catch A Critter on the case, you can be confident that your Cumming home is protected from any more squirrel intrusions.

Conclusion

Squirrels may seem cute and harmless, but their presence in your home can be a huge headache. By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can significantly reduce the risk of a squirrel invasion. However, if you're facing a persistent squirrel problem, don't hesitate to contact Catch A Critter, Cumming, GA squirrel removal experts.  Our team has the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively remove squirrels from your property, preventing future damage and restoring peace of mind to your home.  Contact Catch A Critter today for a free consultation!  Remember, a proactive approach is key to preventing costly squirrel damage. Take action today and keep your Cumming home squirrel-free!