Squirrels Chewing on Lead Pipe Vents and Roofing Flashing
When you think of home maintenance, your mind might wander to gutters, shingles, or maybe even a fresh coat of paint. But what if I told you that an unexpected, furry culprit is lurking around your roof, ready to wreak havoc? We’re talking about squirrels chewing on houses, specifically targeting lead pipe vents and lead flashing that keep your roof safe from the elements.
Why Are Squirrels Chewing on Your House?
It’s not because they’re plotting against you (though it may feel like it). Squirrels are notorious chewers due to their ever-growing teeth. Much like rodents, they gnaw on things to keep their teeth sharp and manageable. Unfortunately for homeowners, this includes your house!
Lead pipe vents and roofing flashing make prime targets for a squirrel’s relentless chewing. Lead is soft enough for their teeth to dig into, but sturdy enough to give them the challenge they crave. Why they choose your roof’s accessories as their personal dental maintenance tools remains a mystery to humans, but one thing’s for sure: if you spot squirrels chewing on your house, it’s time to act. With no shortage of squirrels in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, your home might be at risk.
The Love Affair Between Squirrels and Lead Pipe Vents
Lead pipe vents are like the ultimate squirrel chew toy. These vents allow air to circulate through your plumbing system, but their soft, lead exterior is like catnip for squirrels. Once they start gnawing on them, the damage can lead to leaks or water intrusion into your home.
And it’s not just a one-time fling. Once a squirrel takes a desire for lead pipe vents, they’ll return again and again until the damage becomes extensive. The more they chew, the more exposed your pipes become, creating a domino effect of roof problems.
Why Lead Flashing Is Also at Risk
Squirrels don’t stop at pipe vents. Lead flashing is another favorite snack. Flashing is the material that protects roof joints, chimneys, and walls from water damage. Made of lead because of its malleability and weather resistance, it’s also a prime candidate for squirrel teeth.
Once they get their paws (and teeth) on it, your lead flashing could suffer significant damage. And when flashing is compromised, water can sneak into places it shouldn’t, leading to costly repairs and more sleepless nights.
How to Protect Your Roof from Squirrel Gnawing
So, what can you do when you discover a squirrel chewing on your house? Here are some options for protecting your lead pipe vents and lead flashing from becoming chew toys:
- Install Squirrel Guards – These handy devices fit around pipe vents and make it nearly impossible for squirrels to get to the lead. Think of them as a security system for your roof.
- Replace Lead with Alternative Materials – Consider swapping out lead flashing with copper or aluminum flashing. These materials aren’t as appealing to squirrels and will still protect your roof from water damage.
- Trim Trees Around the House – Squirrels are excellent jumpers, and they often leap onto roofs from nearby trees. Trimming branches back can make it harder for them to access your roof.
- Repellents – While not foolproof, some homeowners swear by squirrel repellents. These come in sprays or granules that make surfaces less attractive to our furry friends.
- Call Homesouth, LLC – If you’re not comfortable handling roof repairs or squirrel-proofing on your own, contact Homesouth Roofing. With locations in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, we can assess the damage and offer permanent solutions to stop squirrels chewing on your house.
Squirrels Are Cute—Until They’re Not!
We all love seeing squirrels hopping from tree to tree in the backyard, but when they start chewing on your lead pipe vents or flashing, they become more of a headache than a joy. The damage they cause isn’t just a nuisance—it can lead to leaks, roof repairs, and a big hit to your wallet. So next time you spot a squirrel eyeing your roof, it might be plotting its next chew session. If you need help repairing or replacing your vents or flashing, contact Homesouth Roofing.