Rodents in the Roof: How Squirrels, Rats & Mice Break In—And What You Can Do About It

Rodents in the Roof: How Squirrels, Rats & Mice Break In

—And What You Can Do About It

If you're hearing scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds in your attic, you're not alone. Rodent infestations are a major issue for homeowners in San Antonio, Boerne, and surrounding Texas areas. From squirrels to rats and mice, these animals are experts at finding weak points in your home—especially in places you can't see from the ground. One of the most common entry points we see? The roof return.

At Homeland Wildlife & Pest Control, we specialize in rodent control, wildlife removal, and home exclusion services designed to stop animals in their tracks. Let’s break down how these clever critters gain access—and what you can do to keep your home safe.

The Hidden Entry: Roof Returns

Roof returns are small architectural features where the edge of your roof wraps back toward the home. While they look seamless from the outside, many roof returns are built with gaps or soft spots where siding and shingles meet. These gaps are often less than two inches wide—but that's all a rodent needs.

Squirrels, for example, can squeeze through holes as small as 1.5 inches. Mice? They only need a gap the size of a dime. These openings give pests direct access into your attic, where they nest, chew, and cause thousands in damage.

What Happens Once They’re Inside?

Once inside your attic, rodents waste no time turning your insulation into a nest. They chew electrical wires, contaminate your space with urine and feces, and gnaw on wood framing and air ducts. It's not just gross—it’s dangerous.

Common problems caused by attic infestations:

• Chewed electrical wiring (a major fire hazard)
• Shredded insulation, leading to higher energy bills
• Biohazard contamination from droppings and urine
• Destruction of air conditioning lines and ducts
• Stains, smells, and structural damage

The longer rodents are allowed to stay, the more expensive the repairs become. That’s why early detection and professional exclusion are key.

How We Fix It: Wildlife Exclusion Done Right

At Homeland Wildlife & Pest Control, we don’t just trap and remove pests—we prevent them from coming back. Our home exclusion services are the gold standard in long-term rodent and wildlife control. Here's how we handle roof returns:

• Inspect every roof return for signs of damage or entry
• Seal gaps using heavy-duty sheet metal, not foam or wood (which rodents can chew through)
• Paint each repair to match the home for a clean, finished look
• Install one-way doors when necessary to allow animals to exit safely without re-entering

Every exclusion project comes backed by our lifetime guarantee, giving you total peace of mind.

Protect Your Home with a Free Inspection

If you suspect a rodent problem or simply want peace of mind, schedule a free home inspection with our team. We'll check vulnerable areas like roof returns, gable vents, AC chases, soffits, and more. The sooner you act, the less damage—and cost—you’ll face down the line.

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