How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Attic

How to Get Rid of Squirrels in Your Attic and Walls: A Complete Guide

January 15, 20248 min read

If you’re hearing scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds coming from your attic or walls, you’re likely dealing with a squirrel infestation. These agile creatures might seem harmless when they’re outside playing in your yard, but once they’ve made their way into your home, they can cause serious damage and create significant health hazards.

Squirrels in your attic can chew through electrical wiring (creating fire risks), destroy insulation, contaminate spaces with droppings, and even invite other pests into your home. Whether you’re in Hamilton, Brantford, or anywhere in Southern Ontario, understanding how to identify, remove, and prevent squirrels from invading your home is essential for protecting your property and family.

What You’ll Learn

Identifying Signs of Squirrels in Your Attic and Walls

Before you can tackle a squirrel problem, you need to confirm that squirrels are indeed your unwelcome guests. Here are the telltale signs:

Audible Signs

Scratching and Scurrying: Most active during early morning and late afternoon (dawn and dusk), you’ll hear rapid movement across your ceiling or within walls
Gnawing Sounds: Squirrels have teeth that never stop growing, so they constantly chew on wood, wiring, and other materials
Vocal Noises: Chattering, squeaking, or crying sounds, especially if there are baby squirrels present
Rolling Sounds: You might hear nuts or other items being rolled across your attic floor

Visual Evidence

Entry Holes: Chewed openings around your roofline, soffits, fascia, or vents (typically 2-4 inches in diameter)
Droppings: Small, barrel-shaped droppings about 3/8 inch long, often found near entry points or nesting areas
Nesting Materials: Shredded insulation, leaves, twigs, and other debris gathered into a nest
Chew Marks: Visible damage to wood, plastic vents, or electrical wiring
Grease Marks: Dark smudges along walls or entry points from their fur oils
Squirrel Sightings: Actually seeing squirrels enter or exit your home, typically during daylight hours

Pro Tip:

Squirrels are diurnal (active during the day), while other common attic invaders like raccoons and rats are primarily nocturnal. If you’re hearing activity during daylight hours, squirrels are likely your culprits.

Types of Squirrels in Southern Ontario

In the Hamilton and Brantford areas, you’re most likely to encounter these squirrel species:

Eastern Gray Squirrel

The most common home invader, gray squirrels have gray-brown fur, white bellies, and bushy tails. They’re excellent climbers and can easily access rooflines. These squirrels are particularly active in spring (March-April) and fall (September-October) when they’re seeking nesting sites.

Black Squirrel

Actually a melanistic variant of the gray squirrel, black squirrels have identical behavior patterns but with dark fur. They’re especially common in Southern Ontario and just as capable of causing property damage.

Red Squirrel

Smaller than gray squirrels, red squirrels have reddish-brown fur and are extremely territorial. While less common in attics, they can still cause significant damage when they do take up residence.

Why Squirrels in Your Attic Are Dangerous

Many homeowners underestimate the risks associated with squirrel infestations. Here’s why you should take action immediately:

Fire Hazards

Squirrels instinctively gnaw to keep their ever-growing teeth trimmed. Unfortunately, they can’t distinguish between a tree branch and electrical wiring. Exposed or damaged wires can spark and ignite surrounding insulation or wood, potentially causing house fires. According to insurance industry estimates, rodents and wildlife are responsible for thousands of house fires annually.

Structural Damage

Beyond wiring, squirrels will chew through:

Roof shingles and wood sheathing
Fascia boards and soffits
Insulation (reducing energy efficiency)
Plastic or aluminum vents
HVAC ductwork
Drywall and ceiling materials

Health Concerns

Squirrels can carry diseases and parasites including:

Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection spread through urine
Salmonellosis: Food poisoning from contaminated surfaces
Ticks and Fleas: External parasites that can infest your home
Rabies: While rare in squirrels, it’s still a concern
Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection from dried droppings

Secondary Pest Infestations

Once squirrels create entry points into your home, other wildlife and pests can follow. The holes they create become highways for mice, bats, and insects.

Step 1: Thorough Inspection and Identification

The first critical step in removing squirrels is conducting a comprehensive inspection of your property. This determines the extent of the infestation and identifies all entry points.

What to Look For During Inspection

Exterior Inspection

Walk around your entire home and examine:

Roofline: Check where the roof meets the walls for gaps or chewed areas
Soffits and Fascia: Look for holes or damaged sections
Vents: Inspect roof vents, gable vents, and ridge vents for damage
Chimney: Check if the chimney cap is intact or missing
Utility Lines: Examine where cables, pipes, or wires enter your home
Tree Branches: Note any branches within 6-8 feet of your roofline

Interior Inspection

If you can safely access your attic:

Look for nesting materials and droppings
Check insulation for damage or displacement
Examine wiring for chew marks
Use a flashlight to identify entry points from inside
Listen for movement to locate active areas

⚠️ Safety Warning

Attic inspections can be dangerous due to limited space, poor lighting, and potential exposure to droppings or aggressive animals. If you’re uncomfortable or unsure, contact professional wildlife removal services in Hamilton or Brantford for a safe, thorough inspection.

Confirming It’s Actually Squirrels

Remember to confirm you’re dealing with squirrels and not other wildlife:

Squirrels: Active during day, especially morning and evening
Raccoons: Nocturnal, heavier footsteps, larger entry holes (6+ inches)
Rats/Mice: Nocturnal, smaller droppings, greasier appearance
Bats: Nocturnal, squeaking sounds, very small entry points

Step 2: Humane Exclusion Methods

Once you’ve confirmed a squirrel infestation, the next step is humane removal. In Ontario, it’s illegal to trap and relocate squirrels, so exclusion methods are your best option.

One-Way Door Installation

The gold standard for humane squirrel removal is the one-way exclusion door. Here’s how it works:

Identify the Main Entry Point: Squirrels typically use one primary entrance
Install the One-Way Door: A specialized device allows squirrels to exit but prevents re-entry
Seal All Other Openings: Every other potential entry point must be secured before installing the door
Wait for Exit: Squirrels will leave to forage for food and water (usually within 24-48 hours)
Remove Door and Seal: Once all squirrels have exited, remove the one-way door and permanently seal the opening

Important Considerations

Baby Squirrels

Squirrels have two breeding seasons:

Spring: Babies born in March-April
Late Summer: Babies born in August-September

If you exclude adult squirrels during these periods, helpless babies may be left behind. These babies will die, creating awful odors and potentially attracting other pests. Also, the mom squirrel will not just leave. She will do everything possible to reunite with them, so she will be very loud, making lots of noise, and cause a lot more exterior damage to get back inside (usually will chew a new entry point/hole). Professional wildlife technicians can perform an interior inspection to locate and safely remove babies by hand before exclusion.

Timing Matters

The best times for squirrel removal are:

January-February (before spring breeding)
June-July (between breeding seasons)
November-December (after fall breeding)

Natural Deterrents During Exclusion

To encourage squirrels to leave more quickly, you can use natural deterrents:

Ammonia-Soaked Rags: The strong smell mimics predator urine
Bright Lights: Squirrels prefer dark nesting areas
Radio or Noise: Constant sound disrupts their comfort
Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidic smell is unpleasant to squirrels

These methods alone won’t solve your problem, but they can speed up the exclusion process when combined with one-way doors.

Step 3: Sealing Entry Points Permanently

Once squirrels have been excluded, preventing their return is critical. Squirrels have incredible homing instincts and will attempt to regain entry if proper sealing isn’t done.

Professional-Grade Materials

Don’t make the mistake of using inadequate materials. Squirrels can chew through:

Chicken wire
Plastic sheeting
Expanding foam alone
Wood (though they prefer not to)
Aluminum (thin gauge)

What Actually Works

16-Gauge Galvanized Steel Mesh: The industry standard for wildlife exclusion
Heavy-Duty Metal Flashing: For sealing edges and transitions
Steel Wool with Sealant: For smaller gaps (steel wool alone can rust)
Concrete or Mortar: For foundation gaps
Commercial-Grade Chimney Caps: Must have mesh sides to prevent entry

Key Areas to Seal

Roof and Attic Access Points

Soffit intersections where squirrels can pry up edges
Fascia boards with rotted or damaged sections
Roof-to-wall junctions where gaps exist
Dormer windows and decorative elements
Damaged or missing shingles that expose wood

Vents and Openings

Gable vents (cover with steel mesh behind existing vent)
Roof vents (install vent guards)
Ridge vents (ensure proper installation with no gaps)
Plumbing stack vents (add protective covers)
Dryer vents (install pest-proof vent covers)

Walls and Foundation

Utility penetrations where cables enter
Weep holes (use copper mesh that allows drainage)
Foundation cracks or gaps
Gaps around windows and doors

The Importance of Professional Sealing

While DIY sealing is possible, professional wildlife-proofing services offer distinct advantages:

Experience identifying ALL potential entry points (even ones you might miss)
Professional-grade materials and tools
Safe access to high or dangerous areas
Warranties on workmanship
Knowledge of building codes and proper installation

Step 4: Long-Term Prevention Strategies

After you’ve successfully removed squirrels and sealed entry points, maintaining a squirrel-free home requires ongoing prevention efforts.

Landscape Management

Trim Tree Branches

Squirrels can jump 8-10 feet horizontally and fall from significant heights without injury. To prevent easy access to your roof:

Keep all tree branches at least 8 feet away from your roofline
Trim overhanging branches that provide shade over your roof
Consider removing trees that are too close to your home
Install smooth metal collar guards on trees near your house to prevent climbing

Remove Food Sources

Making your property less attractive to squirrels reduces the likelihood of them attempting entry:

Bird Feeders: Use squirrel-proof feeders or remove them entirely. If you must feed birds, try safflower seeds which squirrels dislike
Fallen Fruit: Promptly collect fallen fruit from trees
Garbage: Use metal cans with tight-fitting lids
Pet Food: Never leave pet food outdoors
Compost: Use enclosed composting systems

Repellents and Deterrents

While not foolproof, these methods can discourage squirrels from targeting your home:

Natural Repellents

Predator Urine: Available at garden centers, fox or coyote urine can deter squirrels
Cayenne Pepper Mix: Spray a mixture of cayenne pepper, water, and a drop of dish soap around vulnerable areas
Garlic and Vinegar Spray: Mix crushed garlic, water, and white vinegar for a pungent deterrent
Plant Deterrents: Daffodils, alliums, and fritillaria are toxic to squirrels and act as natural barriers

Physical Deterrents

Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Surprise squirrels with water when they approach
Ultrasonic Devices: Emit high-frequency sounds unpleasant to rodents (effectiveness varies)
Reflective Tape or Pinwheels: Movement and light can discourage squirrels
Plastic Owl Decoys: Must be moved regularly or squirrels will recognize they’re fake

Regular Home Maintenance

Consistent property maintenance is your best long-term prevention strategy:

Inspect your roof and exterior twice yearly (spring and fall)
Repair any damage promptly before it becomes an entry point
Replace damaged or missing shingles immediately
Keep gutters clean to prevent water damage that weakens wood
Ensure proper attic ventilation to prevent moisture and wood rot
Check that all vent covers and chimney caps remain secure

Attic Maintenance

After squirrel removal, consider these attic improvements:

Insulation Replacement: Damaged or contaminated insulation should be removed and replaced
Sanitization: Professional attic cleaning and disinfection eliminates odors that might attract new wildlife
Vapor Barriers: Properly installed vapor barriers prevent moisture issues
Lighting: Installing motion-activated lights can deter nocturnal pests

DIY vs. Professional Squirrel Removal: What You Need to Know

While some homeowners successfully handle minor squirrel problems themselves, professional removal is often the safer, more effective choice.

When DIY Might Work

Consider attempting DIY removal if:

You’ve identified a single, easily accessible entry point
The infestation is very recent (only a few days)
It’s not during breeding season
You’re comfortable working at heights safely
You have access to proper materials and tools
You’re confident no babies are present

When to Call Professionals

Professional wildlife removal services are necessary when:

Multiple Entry Points: Complex infestations require comprehensive solutions
Breeding Season: Baby squirrels require special handling
Difficult Access: High roofs, steep pitches, or unstable surfaces are dangerous
Extensive Damage: Structural repairs need professional assessment
Repeated Attempts Failed: If DIY efforts haven’t worked, you need expert help
Health Concerns: Individuals with respiratory issues shouldn’t handle wildlife waste
Uncertain Pest Type: Not knowing which animal is present can lead to ineffective exclusion, as different pests require different techniques
Legal Compliance: Professionals understand Ontario wildlife regulations

Benefits of Professional Services

Hiring experienced wildlife control technicians provides:

Complete Inspections: Identifying all entry points and vulnerable areas
Humane Methods: Proper exclusion techniques that comply with regulations
Baby Animal Handling: Safe removal of juvenile squirrels
Professional Materials: Commercial-grade exclusion materials with warranties
Safety: No risk to you from heights, bites, or disease exposure
Comprehensive Solutions: Full property protection, not just the immediate problem
Time Savings: Quick, efficient resolution instead of weeks of trial and error
Guarantees: Reputable companies like First Class Wildlife Removal offer satisfaction guarantees

What Professional Service Includes

When you hire a professional wildlife removal company in Hamilton or Brantford, you should expect:

Initial Inspection: Comprehensive interior and exterior assessment
Detailed Quote: Written estimate outlining all work to be performed
Humane Exclusion: One-way door installation and monitoring
Baby Check: Interior inspection for juvenile animals during breeding seasons
Complete Sealing: All entry points secured with professional materials
Preventative Screening: Vulnerable areas protected against future intrusions
Damage Assessment: Evaluation of any repairs needed
Follow-Up: Verification that exclusion was successful
Warranty: Guarantee against re-entry for a specified period

Frequently Asked Questions About Squirrels in Attics

How much does professional squirrel removal cost?

Professional squirrel removal typically ranges from $300-$700+ depending on the extent of the infestation, number of entry points, roof accessibility, and whether babies are present. Complete home exclusion with prevention screening can cost $1,000-$3,000+ for larger homes. While this seems expensive, it’s often less than the cost of repairing fire damage from chewed wires or structural damage from prolonged infestation.

Can squirrels chew through steel mesh?

No, squirrels cannot chew through properly installed 16-gauge galvanized steel mesh. This is why professional wildlife control companies use this material exclusively. They can, however, chew through chicken wire, plastic mesh, thin aluminum, and even wood given enough time.

Will squirrels leave on their own?

Unfortunately, no. Once squirrels establish a den in your attic, they’ll continue returning unless you force them out through exclusion. Female squirrels are especially persistent when raising babies. The shelter, warmth, and safety your attic provides are too valuable for them to abandon voluntarily.

Is it legal to trap and relocate squirrels in Ontario?

No, it’s illegal in Ontario to trap and relocate squirrels beyond 1 kilometer from where they were captured. This regulation exists because relocated animals often die in unfamiliar territories, and relocation can spread diseases to new areas. Humane exclusion is the legal and ethical solution.

How long does squirrel exclusion take?

Initial installation of one-way doors and sealing of secondary entry points typically takes 2-4 hours depending on your home’s size and complexity. Squirrels usually exit within 24-48 hours. The final sealing of the main entry point happens once we’ve confirmed all squirrels have left. Total timeline is typically 3-7 days from start to completion.

What happens if babies are trapped inside during exclusion?

This is why professional inspection is so important. If babies are present, a technician will perform an interior attic inspection to locate the nest and hand-remove the juveniles before exclusion. The babies are temporarily placed in a heated reunion box near the former entry point. The mother will retrieve them and relocate to an alternate den site. Excluding adults while leaving babies inside is inhumane and creates serious odor problems.

Can I use poison to get rid of squirrels?

Absolutely not. Using poison on squirrels is illegal, inhumane, and dangerous. Poisoned squirrels often die inside walls or attics, creating horrible odors and attracting insects. Poisoned squirrels can also be eaten by pets or predators, spreading the toxin. Additionally, poisons cause prolonged suffering. Always use humane exclusion methods.

Do ultrasonic repellents really work on squirrels?

The effectiveness of ultrasonic devices is questionable at best. While some homeowners report initial success, squirrels often become accustomed to the sound. These devices should never be relied upon as a primary control method. Physical exclusion is the only proven, reliable solution.

Why do I only hear squirrels in the morning and evening?

Squirrels are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active during dawn and dusk. They leave their dens in early morning to forage for food, return midday to rest, then forage again in late afternoon before settling in for the night. This activity pattern helps distinguish squirrels from nocturnal pests like raccoons or rats.

Should I clean my attic after squirrel removal?

Yes, professional attic cleaning is highly recommended after any wildlife infestation. Squirrel droppings, urine, nesting materials, and damaged insulation can harbor bacteria, parasites, and odors. Proper cleaning involves removing contaminated materials, sanitizing surfaces, and replacing insulation. This eliminates health risks and removes scent markers that might attract future wildlife.

Will homeowner’s insurance cover squirrel damage?

Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies exclude damage caused by rodents and wildlife. However, if squirrel-chewed wires cause a fire, the fire damage may be covered. Check your specific policy and consider adding wildlife damage endorsements if available. Preventing infestations through proper exclusion is always more cost-effective than repairs.

Take Action Against Squirrels Today

Dealing with squirrels in your attic or walls isn’t something you should postpone. The longer they remain in your home, the more damage they cause and the more difficult (and expensive) removal becomes. From fire hazards to structural damage to health risks, squirrel infestations pose serious threats to your property and family.

While DIY methods can work for minor situations, most squirrel infestations require professional expertise to resolve completely and permanently. Proper identification, humane exclusion, comprehensive sealing, and ongoing prevention are all essential components of effective squirrel control.

If you’re hearing scratching in your attic, noticing entry holes, or seeing squirrels entering your home, don’t wait. The team at First Class Wildlife Removal has over a decade of experience providing humane, effective wildlife control services throughout Hamilton, Brantford, and Southern Ontario. We offer:

Thorough property inspections
Humane exclusion methods
Professional-grade materials and workmanship
Baby animal handling during breeding seasons
Complete home exclusion and prevention
100% satisfaction guarantee
Attic cleaning and restoration services

Don’t let squirrels continue damaging your home. Contact First Class Wildlife Removal today for a comprehensive inspection and quote. We’ll get those furry intruders out safely, seal your home properly, and give you peace of mind knowing your property is protected.

Need Help With Squirrels in Your Attic?

First Class Wildlife Removal offers professional, humane squirrel exclusion services in Hamilton and Brantford. Call us today for a free estimate!Get Your Free Estimate