How Do I Keep Bugs, Birds, Rats, and Critters out of my Rain Gutters?
Many homeowners don't realize their gutters are infested with bugs and critters who wreak havoc, damage property, and create an unhealthy environment. Or that clogged gutters may be a big contributor to the pest problems they are experiencing.
Common Pests in Gutters Include:
- Mosquitoes
- Ants
- Rodents
- Chipmunks and Squirrels
- Termites
- Wasps
- Birds
What Problems Do Pests in Gutters Cause?
Ants
Ants are among the most common gutter pests. You might think as long as they stay in the gutter, it's no big deal. But, ants are one step ahead of that rationale.
For ants, gutters make the ideal habitat. They build their nests outdoors and forage for food indoors. The leaves, twigs, and pooling water are the perfect environment for nutrients, shelter, and a growing colony. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are an easy stroll to the 24-hour cafe - your kitchen.
Carpenter ants can be destructive. This species is attracted to the decomposing debris found in most gutters. They can chew through your fascia, eaves, and other wood structures of your home.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes actively seek out damp areas with decaying organic matter as nesting sites. Clogged gutters with decomposing leaves and other debris, and standing water, create the ideal breeding ground to lay eggs.
Mosquitoes aren't just a buzzing, biting annoyance. They also spread West Nile virus, chikungunya, yellow fever, and other diseases. Austin has a year-round population of mosquitoes.
To counteract their peak breeding seasons, we recommend gutter cleaning around March and then again in September. YardDoc's mosquito control measures are customized and eco-friendly.
Related: What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Birds
Stop birds from nesting in your gutters. They are attracted to rooftop features like this because they are somewhat hidden and high off the ground, largely inaccessible to cats, dogs, raccoons, and other predators.
But bird nests clog rain gutter systems, can sometimes get stuck in your downspout, and leave behind diseased waste that can harm your children or pets. If birds are a problem, continue ongoing pest control and consider installing gutter guards. We recommend Gutter Tex, a highly reputable local gutter installation company.
Rats and Mice
These rodents are excellent climbers. It's easy for them to scurry up downspouts or access your roof from nearby tree branches. Nests in your gutters protect their young and provide a safe haven.
They can squeeze through a 1/4 inch opening to gain access to your home for food. They carry serious diseases. Bites, scratches, feces, urine, and contaminated food supply (in your kitchen) pose a health hazard to your family and pets. Two rats can multiply in less than a year into a full-blown infestation.
Rats chew through electrical wiring to create fire hazards and PVC piping to cause water leaks. They gnaw on wood, cardboard, and other materials to destroy your personal property. Fortunately, there are easy signs to look out for to know if you've got critters in the home or not, like seeing droppings around the home or hearing scratching noises.
Here's the Solution for Pests in Your Gutters
1) Organic Pest Control
Instead of exposing your roof, siding and the surrounding area to hazardous chemical pesticides that probably won't work, use a holistic approach to pest control. YardDoc's focus is on removing what attracts unwanted pests, installing entry barriers, and customizing the right natural product for your particular environment.
2) Gutter Cleaning
Keeping your gutter system working properly protects your home's foundation and landscaping by directing rainwater away from your house.
When gutters clog, leak, or overflow, the facia and other rooftop features soften and begin to rot. Damp wood, organic debris, and standing water are open invitations to pests.
Prevent pests in gutters from causing clogs, structure damage, and getting inside your home with YardDoc professional exterior property services.
Contact YardDoc for a free estimate.
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