Home invasion by critters is no joking matter, and many homeowners know firsthand the difficult and strenuous battles that can take place when animals overrun an attic or basement. From tree squirrels, mice, birds, and bats, animals have the ability to sneak in when you least expect it and can eventually wreak havoc.
While the initial signs of an infestation such as the sounds of scurrying and scampering or the telltale clues of exterior damage can be quite bothersome, an infestation can cause health hazards for numerous reasons. From electrical wiring to wood to insulation, your home is vulnerable in many ways and an animal has the ability to cause significant damage and hazard to the home’s inhabitants.
Many critters have multiple litters of babies a year, and the shelter provided by an attic or basement is something they actively seek. Without even knowing, your home could become a home for not only your family but a new squirrel family as well. While the babies are not worrisome, a territorial parent can quickly become a danger to you and your family.
With any hazard, there are precautions to take and professional help is often the best way to handle a wildlife infestation. Here are a few typical signs that it’s time to skip the DIY wildlife control and seek out professional help:
1) You Notice Animal Droppings
While relatively small compared to other animal droppings, the feces of mice, squirrels and even birds and bats can be dangerous and lead to numerous health-related problems. Feces can often carry spores and bacteria that have the potential to become airborne when disturbed. Also, if left unnoticed for a longer period of time, the accumulation of feces and urine can lead to damaged insulation and wood which will need to be cleaned and maybe replaced. Professionals understand the risks involved and are trained in the proper procedures of removing feces and urine in order to avoid the potential diseases and conditions critters can carry.
Sign #2: Animal Noises Increase in Volume Indicating a Sizable Population
One or two animals can typically be dealt with fairly easily and without much effort. However, numerous species of critters can often be rather social choosing to live in nests or packs, and if this nest is located in your attic or basement, you will most likely begin to hear signs of it. Scampering and jumping sounds, along with scratching or gnawing can hint at significant damage and should be dealt with accordingly. Professionals have the ability and knowledge to rid your home of however large an animal population becomes, and can quickly discern where they may have entered and the repairs that must be made to prevent further invasions.
2) Animal Noises Increase in Volume Indicating a Sizable Population
One or two animals can typically be dealt with fairly easily and without much effort. However, numerous species of critters can often be rather social choosing to live in nests or packs, and if this nest is located in your attic or basement, you will most likely begin to hear signs of it. Scampering and jumping sounds, along with scratching or gnawing can hint at significant damage and should be dealt with accordingly. Professionals have the ability and knowledge to rid your home of however large an animal population becomes, and can quickly discern where they may have entered and the repairs that must be made to prevent further invasions.
3) Significant Internal or External Damage has Occurred
Though small, critters have the ability to cause extensive damage to your home’s structure. From holes in a home’s siding, chewed electrical wires, damaged shingles or ruined insulation, you never know what havoc an animal may have created. Exterior damage created by a critter can also lead to a welcoming entrance for even more animals, so attending to damage as soon as it is noticed is very important. An expert in animal infestation can effectively survey important safety concerns such as electrical wiring to ensure your home is safe, and in the case anything is damaged, they have the experience to make the repairs and prevent further damage from occurring. Experts can also analyze the exterior of your house to determine any areas that may have been damaged or point out and strengthen any areas that are at risk of becoming entry points.
4) You Notice a Foul Smell
A house provides a new environment for critters, and just like anything in life that is unfamiliar, there may be risks to exploring the unknown. Falling between walls or frying themselves on electrical wiring are common causes of death for pests and will leave a dead and decaying animal in your house. You will quickly be able to pick up on the smell that a dead animal creates and seeking out a professional is crucial for the proper removal and cleanup of the remains. Just like the animal’s feces and urine, the dead critter creates big health risks for humans and should be dealt with by an expert.
An animal infestation is a risk for every homeowner, and while tackling the problem by yourself may be cost-effective, the risks associated with it are often too big and simply not worth it. Experts can provide quick and effective solutions to any problem and can provide you with the assurance that the infestation has been controlled and measures have been taken to prevent further issues. When it comes to the safety of your home and family, trusting the professionals is a decision that you will simply not regret.
