WaynCo Roofing, LLC

Raccoons are known for their intelligence, curiosity and dexterity. These qualities, however, are the reasons why homeowners consider them a menace. Raccoons search for food just about anywhere, leaving tipped over garbage cans and scattered trash. They are also attracted to resources inside homes, which is why they may try to gain access indoors via downspouts. Once they do, there’s no stopping them from turning your roof and attic into their shelter and breeding ground.

Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent raccoons from climbing up your downspouts. Here are some of them:

1. Keep raccoons off your property.

Do everything you can to curb the raccoons’ desire to come onto your property. Don’t leave any pet food outdoors at night – that is easy pickings for these nocturnal animals. Clear any fallen fruits or nuts in your yard. Secure your garbage containers firmly so they remain closed even when they are tipped over. Trim back overgrown trees and branches near the gutter system. Cover potential access points for raccoons with a metal mesh or fencing.

2. Apply grease on downspouts.

Create a slick downspout surface so that raccoons can’t get a solid grip when they try to climb up. Consider applying the grease at a high point of the downspout – this will cause them to fall back down when they can’t hold on any longer.

3. Install pest repellants on your downspouts.

The addition of pest guards helps enhance your gutter system’s protection against raccoons. These are rough, pointed materials designed to wrap around not only the gutters and downspouts but also tree trunks and branches. These won’t hurt the animal, but if you want a safer alternative, consider installing metal sheeting between the walls and downspouts. The material’s smooth surface prevents raccoons from grabbing onto the downspouts with their claws.

Raccoons won’t be climbing your downspouts with these tips, sure, but you also have to make sure you keep an eye out for any damage to your gutter system. To ensure its long-term function, turn to the professionals at WaynCo Roofing, LLC. We’ll recommend the best solution for your home, be it a gutter repair or replacement. Call us now at (704) 814-9566, or fill out our contact form for a free estimate.