How to Keep Squirrels Off Your Roof

Squirrels may be cute and fuzzy, but when they make your roof their playground—or worse, their new home—they can cause serious damage. From chewing through shingles and wood to nesting in attics, squirrels can become a costly nuisance for homeowners. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep squirrels off your roof, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

We’ll explore why squirrels are drawn to roofs, what damage they can do, and, most importantly, the best prevention strategies to keep them away. Plus, we’ll explain how S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, proudly serving Youngstown, Cleveland, and Northeast Ohio, can help protect your roof from unwanted pests.

1. Why Do Squirrels Go on Roofs?

Squirrels are agile climbers and constantly seek high, safe spaces for nesting, especially during mating and birthing seasons. Roofs offer them:

• Access to Attics: Vents, loose shingles, or soffit gaps can be easy entry points.
• Shelter: Roofs provide protection from predators and weather.
• Proximity to Trees: Overhanging branches make it easy for squirrels to leap onto roofs.

2. What Damage Can Squirrels Do to Your Roof?

Squirrels are more destructive than they seem. Here’s how they can damage your roof:

• Chewing: Squirrels have strong teeth that can chew through shingles, wood, flashing, and even aluminum.
• Nesting in Attics: Once inside, they build nests, chew electrical wiring, and tear insulation.
• Water Damage: Holes in roofing material allow water to seep in, causing mold, rot, and leaks.
• Noise and Odor: Movement and droppings can create foul odors and disturbing sounds above your ceiling.

3. Signs You Have Squirrels on Your Roof

• Scampering sounds during the day, especially in the early morning or evening
• Chewed materials around soffits or fascia boards
• Droppings in attics or near vents
• Visible nests in gutters, chimneys, or attic corners
• Damaged shingles or holes in roof edges

4. How to Keep Squirrels Off Your Roof: 10 Proven Methods

1. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Squirrels often leap from trees onto roofs. Trim branches at least 6–8 feet away from your home.

2. Install Squirrel Guards on Utility Wires and Poles

Use baffles or cone-shaped barriers to prevent squirrels from walking utility lines to your roof.

3. Seal Entry Points

Inspect your roof for gaps, cracks, or damaged soffits. Use metal flashing, hardware cloth, or steel mesh to seal them off.

4. Use Squirrel Repellents

Natural sprays with peppermint oil or predator urine can help. Motion-activated sprinklers and ultrasonic devices can deter squirrels, too.

5. Install Roof Vent Covers

Squirrels often enter through roof vents. Use chew-resistant metal vent covers to block their access.

6. Keep Gutters Clean

Clogged gutters attract nesting squirrels. Regular cleaning removes twigs, leaves, and potential nesting materials.

7. Add Chimney Caps

A chimney is an inviting space for nesting. Install a mesh cap to keep squirrels out while allowing smoke to escape.

8. Use Metal Flashing

Install metal flashing around edges, soffits, and rooflines. Squirrels can’t chew through metal.

9. Avoid Bird Feeders Near the Roof

Bird feeders attract squirrels. Keep them away from your home, or use squirrel-proof feeders.

10. Call a Professional Roofing Contractor

A roofing expert can inspect for entry points and help reinforce vulnerable areas. S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC offers this service throughout Northeast Ohio.

5. What to Do If Squirrels Have Already Gotten In

Step 1: Confirm the Infestation

Look for droppings, nesting materials, or signs of chewing in your attic or roofline.

Step 2: Evict Humanely

Use live traps or one-way exclusion doors to allow squirrels out without letting them back in.

Step 3: Seal All Entry Points

Once all animals are out, immediately seal off holes or gaps with chew-proof materials.

Step 4: Repair Damage

Replace damaged shingles, wood, insulation, and wiring. A professional like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC can handle this for you.

6. Long-Term Prevention Tips

• Schedule annual roof inspections
• Maintain landscaping and trees
• Install gutter guards
• Use attic insulation that repels rodents
• Avoid storing food or waste near your home’s exterior

7. How S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Can Help

At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we understand that your home is an investment—and pest damage is a major threat to your roof’s integrity. Serving Youngstown, Cleveland, and the rest of Northeast Ohio, our team provides:

• Roof inspections for animal entry points
• Repairs to squirrel-chewed roofing and wood
• Installation of vent covers, chimney caps, and flashing
• Ongoing maintenance services to keep your roof secure

As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, our work is backed by trusted warranties and high-quality materials.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Roof from Squirrel Damage

Squirrels may seem harmless, but their presence on your roof can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs. By taking proactive steps—like trimming branches, sealing entry points, and using repellents—you can prevent infestations before they start.

And when you need professional help, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is your go-to roofing expert in Northeast Ohio. Contact us today to schedule a roof inspection or pest-proofing consultation.

Let us help you keep squirrels (and other critters) where they belong—off your roof and out of your home!