Job Overview
Location: Peterborough, Ontario
Structure: Three-storey detached residential home
Problem: Squirrel activity in third-storey attic
Service: Squirrel removal and exterior wildlife exclusion
Visits: Three visits
Summary
We completed a multi-visit squirrel removal and exclusion project on an older three-storey brick home in Peterborough. The work focused on safely removing squirrels from the attic, addressing multiple active and potential entry points, and reinforcing vulnerable roofline areas with galvanized steel exclusion materials.
Background / Property Context
The property is a very old, red brick, three-storey detached house located in close proximity to neighbouring homes. Age-related wear was visible along the roofline, soffits, vents, and chimney areas. The height and tight access points required ladder-based work and careful staging.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported regular scratching and movement noises in the attic during morning and evening hours. The timing of the activity aligned with the diurnal behaviour typical of squirrels. The concern was ongoing and active during both May and August visits.
Inspection & Findings
During the initial inspection, our team identified a primary squirrel entry point at a soffit-to-roofline intersection near the upper corner of the home. Additional gaps and weak points were visible along adjoining soffit runs and roofline transitions. On follow-up inspection, a second attic access point showed evidence of use by another squirrel. Roof vents, drip edge sections, and the chimney area were also identified as high-risk access points due to age and separation of materials.
Photos from site show galvanized steel mesh installed along soffit intersections, roofline edges, vents, and chimney areas, as well as ladder access to upper elevations.
Cause Analysis
Older rooflines and soffit intersections can shift over time due to weather exposure and material fatigue. These gaps are commonly targeted by squirrels seeking elevated, sheltered nesting areas. Proximity to neighbouring structures can further increase roof access opportunities.
Treatment / Removal
Humane, non-lethal squirrel removal was completed using one-way doors installed directly over active entry points. These devices allowed squirrels to exit the attic naturally while preventing re-entry. Due to food caching behaviour common with squirrels, exit monitoring was allowed over an extended period to ensure full vacancy before final sealing.
Exclusion & Repairs
Exclusion work was completed across all three visits and included:
- Installation of one-way doors at two separate attic entry points
- Sealing approximately twelve feet of soffit using galvanized steel mesh
- Sealing two additional soffit intersections
- Installation of six galvanized steel roof vent covers
- Reinforcement of one plumbing vent using galvanized steel mesh at the base
- Installation of six feet of drip edge along vulnerable roofline sections
- Chimney sealing with galvanized steel mesh to prevent wildlife access
All materials were mechanically fastened and shaped to follow existing roof and soffit lines.
Outcome & Confirmation
By the final visit, squirrel activity had ceased. One-way doors were removed, all identified entry points were permanently sealed, and exclusion work was inspected. No further attic noise or exterior wildlife activity was reported following completion.
Technician Notes
The work was completed over three visits due to multiple active entry points and the scope of preventative exclusion requested. Grant identified and addressed both current and high-risk access areas, ensuring long-term protection of the roofline and attic space.
This service was completed by our Peterborough wildlife team. For wildlife removal inquiries in Peterborough, contact 705-410-3708