Gutters provide havens for a variety of critters without the right maintenance. Birds and rodents create nests in the roof drainage systems, while mosquitoes, termites, carpenter ants, and centipedes are among the insects attracted to standing water and damp debris in gutters. Here, review how to keep unwanted visitors out of this essential system.

How to Deter Pests From Your Gutters

1. Trim Tree Branches

Keep trees near your home trimmed since branches that stretch to your roof provide pathways for insects and rodents. Eliminate these pathways with routine trimming, a maintenance task that also prevents shingle damage and possible leaks from heavy branches. It also keeps the branches from falling onto your roof and inflicting damage during a storm.

2. Schedule Regular Cleaning

Request gutter cleaning services every spring and fall, or more frequently if you live in a wooded area. Leaves, twigs, and other debris provide shelter for vermin and birds, who clog the drainage system further by creating nests. Keep the metal components clear and clean to avoid attracting pests and prevent clogs that cause rainwater and melting snow to back up under roof shingles.

3. Provide Alternative Habitats

Offer alternative nesting areas for birds and squirrels. Add birdhouses to your property and plant shrubs that provide shelter for squirrels as well as mice. The closer the shrubs are to the ground, the more attractive they will be to rodents because they protect them from predators. In terms of biting insects such as mosquitoes, add bug-zapping lamps to your property to reduce their numbers.

4. Install Barrier Protection

Get gutter guards installed to create a barrier between the drainage system and assorted animals. Guards create inhospitable environments for birds and vermin while also limiting debris accumulations that cause roof-damaging clogs. 

Schedule gutter guard installation with Advanced Seamless Inc. to prevent pest invasions. Also specializing in maintenance, repair, and replacement services, this company has served West Salem, WI and the surrounding areas since 1989. Call (608) 786-2929 today to schedule an appointment or visit the website for more information.