While most people think about high winds and hail as the primary forces to protect roofs from, pests are just as dangerous. Squirrels, rodents, birds, and bugs can all look for shelter indoors by dislodging or going around shingles. In the process, they expose your home to potential water damage. The following guide offers advice for keeping them away so that you can avoid unnecessary roof repair.

How to Safeguard Your Roof From Pests

1. Keep Your Trees Trimmed

Tall trees next to a house might add to its visual appeal. However, they can scrape against roof shingles during storms, creating weaknesses or openings that pests can use to get inside your attic. These creatures can also use the long branches as bridges to get onto your roof in the first place. Generally, trim back any branches within six feet of your structure.

2. Clean Gutters

When your gutters get clogged with leaves and other debris, water gets trapped in them. Pests may use this as a source of drinking water. From there, it's an easy transfer to your roof. 

Squirrels can pry shingles up and chew through wiring and insulation in your attic. Termites and carpenter ants like the decomposing matter found in gutters but might like the tasty wood that makes up your roof decking more. Meanwhile, bats and birds who snatch these bugs up to eat may take up room in your attic and begin defecating, lowering indoor air quality. 

To avoid these issues, clean your gutters out at least twice a year. You should also consider investing in leaf guards. These plastic or metal gutter covers contain holes in them that let water through while keeping most organic material out of the drainage channels for ease of maintenance.

3. Inspect Your System

Have a roofing contractor examine your system at least once a year. They can look for pest damage and fix any gaps that might be letting unwanted guests in. You should also go up to your attic periodically to check for sunlight pouring in from missing shingles or wet insulation. That way, you can schedule immediate roof repairs. If pests are already indoors, have an exterminator address that problem first. You can temporarily cover the gap in the roof with a tarp.

If your roof has been damaged by local bugs or wildlife, turn to Price & Sons Roofing in Kernersville, NC. This company has served The Piedmont Triad and the surrounding areas for over 30 years and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®, due in part to the team's commitment to safety, cleanup, and transparency. They are so confident in their work that they offer a five-year labor warranty on all their services. To learn more about their capabilities, visit them online. Call (336) 869-6921 to schedule an appointment.