Pests and Animals on Your Roof?
In Arizona, various animals and pests pose threats to roofs, causing damage in distinct ways:
Birds
Birds, though not directly harmful to roofs, create problems through their nesting activities. They often build nests in roof vents, gutters, and other areas, leading to clogs, blockages, and potential damage to roofing materials. Accumulated bird droppings also contribute to deterioration over time.
For foam roofs, bird droppings pose a significant threat due to their acidic nature. The droppings contain uric acid, which, when left unattended, can gradually break down the protective layers of the foam. As the droppings accumulate, they can eat away at the foam’s surface, leading to deterioration and weakening of the roof. This degradation compromises the foam’s ability to protect the structure from weather elements and can ultimately result in leaks or structural damage.
When it comes to tile roof underlayment, especially in cases where the underlayment is made of materials susceptible to corrosion or deterioration, bird droppings can also cause harm. The acidic content in the droppings can penetrate through porous tiles or seep into the gaps between tiles, reaching the underlayment material beneath. Over time, this continuous exposure can cause the underlayment material, such as felt or other moisture-resistant layers, to degrade, lose its integrity, and weaken. As a result, the roof’s ability to provide adequate protection from moisture and other environmental factors diminishes, leading to potential leaks and structural issues.
Rodents
Rodents like rats, mice, and squirrels are notorious for damaging roofs by gnawing on roofing materials. Their activity leads to the creation of entry points and nesting areas in the attic or roof spaces. Additionally, they may chew through insulation, wiring, and structural components, posing safety risks and necessitating costly repairs.
Insects
Insects, particularly termites, are a significant concern in Arizona. Termites can cause extensive damage to wood structures, including roof framing, compromising the roof’s integrity. Carpenter ants and beetles also contribute to wood damage, impacting the structural stability of the roof. Wasps and bees, when building nests in eaves or other areas, can cause damage if disturbed and may pose safety risks.
Other Wildlife on the Roof
Larger mammals like raccoons and skunks attempt to gain access to attics or shelter and, in doing so, can damage roofs. They often tear or pry open roofing materials, vents, or flashing, resulting in structural damage and potential entry points for other pests.
Certain desert wildlife, such as coyotes, bobcats, or javelinas, may walk on roofs and cause damage by scratching or clawing at roofing materials, particularly in specific areas of Arizona.
To prevent animal or pest-related damage to roofs, several measures can be taken:
- Trimming trees and branches away from the roof prevents easy access for animals.
- Properly screening roof vents and openings prevents animals from entering the roof spaces.
- Regular inspections of the roof, attic, and eaves for signs of animal activity or damage are crucial.
- Timely intervention by professional pest control or wildlife removal services addresses infestations effectively.
- Consulting with roofing professionals for additional measures or repairs reinforces the roof against potential animal damage.
It’s vital to handle animal or pest issues cautiously and adhere to local regulations and guidelines when dealing with wildlife to ensure the safety of both the property and the animals involved.
If you feel your roof may have been invaded by some pests or critters, call 480-367-1171 and ask for one of our experienced roofing inspectors to come check for damage and solutions.
It’s not just any roof; it’s a TraVek Roof!