Attic spaces are warm, sheltered, and infrequently disturbed, making them the ideal environment for pests and vermin.
If pests enter your home through your roof, they can multiply and cause significant damage to your roof’s internal structure and items being stored in the loft before you even realise that they’re there.
If you notice any of the following signs that you may have a problem with pests, it’s important to investigate and act swiftly to minimise damage.
Signs that you may have a problem with pests
- Droppings
- Bad smells
- Damage to the roof’s structure
- Bite marks or damage to belongings in the loft
- Noise
Preventing pests from entering your roof
Birds– Birds roosting or nesting in, on, or around your roof, eaves or chimney can cause a lot of mess with their droppings.
Gel-repellents and spike strips can be applied to the roof to deter pigeons from landing on it.
Rats – If rats enter your home through your roof, they can spread disease, leave droppings, and cause damage to items stored in the loft and to your roof’s structure.
To make it more difficult for rats to gain access to your roof, remove any creeping plants from the walls and cut back any tree branches that overhang your roof. Any gaps or holes in or around your roof should be covered with wire mesh or filled with expanding foam.
Insects– Insects like bees, wasps, moths, and beetles can all find their way into your loft and cause significant damage.
To keep insects out of your roof you need to fill or repair all cracks and holes that they could gain entry through.
Protecting your roof from pests using spray foam
A simple way of sealing your roof to prevent pests and vermin from entering is to have spray foamapplied to the underside of your roof. Spray foam bonds slates and tiles to each other and to your roof’s structural timber to effectively seal all routes of entry.
As well as protecting from pests and strengthening your roof, spray foam is also an excellent source of insulation and soundproofing.
To find out more about spray foam insulation or to arrange a free consultation, give our team here at Metropolitan Insulation a call on 0800 028 4042.