The critters above: A hidden roofing threat

By Elite Roofing. 

Squirrels, pigeons and raccoons aren’t just pests; they’re a serious problem for your roof’s integrity and safety if left unaddressed. 

If your roof could talk, it wouldn’t just complain about storms. It would beg for help against something sneakier: animals. In populated areas where urban wildlife thrives alongside dense neighborhoods, the real damage often starts with a scratch, a nest or a pile of droppings. Pests like squirrels and pigeons are quietly tearing up rooftops and costing homeowners thousands. At Elite Roofing, we’ve seen it all and we know the weather isn’t always to blame. Before you point to the skies as the source of your roof’s damage, take a closer look at what’s really going on above your head. 

Common animal roof intruders 

Dense urban and suburban environments create the perfect habitat for a few persistent pests: 

🐿️ Squirrels 

Squirrels are agile climbers and notorious for chewing through shingles, fascia boards and even attic vents to gain entry. They often build nests inside attic spaces, which can lead to insulation damage, urine/feces contamination and even electrical fires from chewed wires. 

🐦 Pigeons 

Pigeons are a common sight. These birds can cover your roof and gutters with acidic droppings that deteriorate shingles and clog drainage systems. Their nests can block ventilation or even spark electrical issues when built too close to HVAC units or solar panels. 

🦝 Raccoons 

Though less common, raccoons have been spotted in many residential areas. These strong animals can rip through roofing material to get into attics. Once inside, they’re destructive and can be aggressive when confronted. 

🦇 Bats and Birds 

Birds and bats often find their way under soffits and into vents, leaving droppings and nesting debris that compromise air flow and roof structure integrity. 

How animals damage roofing systems 

Animal activity can lead to: 

• Broken or lifted shingles 
• Chewed insulation and wiring 
• Clogged gutters and downspouts 
• Vent and soffit damage 
• Water leaks from compromised flashing or roofing material 
• Unpleasant odors and health hazards from waste 

If left unchecked, these issues can spiral into costly roof repairs or even full replacements. 

Signs of animal intrusion 

Whether you're a homeowner or managing a multi-unit property, be alert for: 

• Scratching or scurrying noises in your attic 
• Shingle debris or unusual wear 
• Visible nests or droppings on your roof 
• Sagging gutters or water leaks 
• Odors or sudden HVAC inefficiency 

If you notice any of these signs, call a professional roofer or wildlife control expert immediately. 

Prevention: How to keep animals off your roof 

At Elite Roofing, we recommend several tried-and-true solutions that are effective in our local environment: 

🔩 Install pigeon spikes 

These stainless steel or plastic spikes are humane and effective. Installed along ledges, windowsills, roof peaks and HVAC units, pigeon spikes make it impossible for birds to land and nest. They're essential for commercial properties and brownstones throughout downtown areas. 

🛡️ Use squirrel deterrents 

Squirrel guards or baffles can be added to trees, wires and gutters to prevent access. We also recommend metal mesh over attic vents, chimneys and soffits, plus trimming overhanging branches that give squirrels roof access. 

🚫 Seal entry points 

We perform thorough inspections to identify vulnerable areas like chimney caps, attic vents, fascia gaps and loose flashing. Sealing these points is key to stopping animal intrusion. 

💧 Maintain gutters 

Clogged gutters attract birds and small mammals looking for nesting sites. We offer gutter cleaning and guards that keep debris and animals out. 

🏠 Schedule routine roof inspections 

A biannual inspection is your first line of defense. We’ll check for animal activity and early signs of damage, especially before and after winter when critters seek warmth. 

Why choose Elite Roofing for animal-related roof damage? 

Elite Roofing is locally owned and operated — we understand the unique challenges that urban wildlife poses to homes. Our team is experienced, licensed and fully equipped to handle: 

• Emergency repairs from animal damage 
• Custom installation of bird and squirrel deterrents 
• Preventive inspections for multi-unit and historic properties 
• Long-term roof protection strategies 

We don’t just patch damage — we prevent it from happening again. 

Final thoughts 

Whether you’re dealing with a pigeon problem or suspect a squirrel has made its home in your attic, don’t ignore the signs. Animals can silently cause thousands of dollars in damage, but with the right prevention and prompt action, your roof can stay secure and critter-free. 

Original article source: Elite Roofing