Bats are the last creatures you want to find in your home. Whether it’s your attic or a dark crawlspace, bats are unfortunate houseguests who simply can’t stay. Keeping bats out means taking strong preventative measures. Read the tips below to implement effective bat proofing methods in the home.

Do you need wildlife removal services? Request a quote today!

1. Timing

Part of an effective bat proofing solution includes knowing when to bat proof your home. Not every season is a great period, and the last thing you want is to trap bats inside your home. Bats are a species at risk in Canada, making it even more important to ensure correct eviction timing.

Spring and summer are the worst seasons for eviction, as bats begin breeding in the late spring and nurse their babies in the summer months. The best time to evict bats is in the fall and early winter. At this time, bats, particularly babies, are flying out of the nest, so you’re less likely to trap any inside.

2. Blocking Materials

Plenty of physical exclusion materials exist to keep bats out of your home. Funnels are possible options some homeowners choose that work in some instances. They’re made in a variety of materials to keep bats out. All-purpose netting, with tiny holes that are small enough to deter bats from flying in and getting stuck in the mesh, are your best bet. As bats only need a small hole to fly into, make sure you buy screens with tight netting that bats won’t be able to slip through.

If you take the net route in the bat proofing process, ensure the screens and nets are properly secured so bats can’t attempt to crawl under or sneak in another way. Different tools, such as staple guns, can be used to seal the entry points covered by the net. Failing to secure the netting or screen still gives bats the ability to enter. Ensure full coverage and properly install screens in the first place.

3. Weather Stripping

Weather stripping is used as a stop gap between doors and floors. They’re made of many different materials: natural fibres, aluminum, fine wire, hard rubber, etc. As bats may crawl in under porch decks into basements, this tool is helpful for closing that gap and stopping bats from crawling under. Depending on how bats find their way inside your home, weather stripping is a useful option.

4. Fill Gaps and Cracks

Sealing up all holes and gaps in your home is a very effective bat-proofing tip. Without any holes for entrances, bats can’t come in. Sealants and caulking are both effective at closing those open spaces, and they can be bought at any local hardware store.

Any caulking will work, but be sure it specifies “all weather” for long-lasting effectiveness. Apply these materials to any open gaps, preferably during dry periods when cracks are widest. This way you can ensure you haven’t missed a spot.

5. Locating Entry Points

Effective bat proofing includes knowing where bats are finding ways into your home. As much as you want to fill every crack you see, knowing where gaps are will allow you to effectively seal and bat proof your home from damage. You’ll find urine and droppings around entry points to help you determine specifically where they’re coming and going.

Bats can enter spaces less than an inch in diameter and are attracted to spots high off the ground. Loose or broken windows, missing screens and roof shingles, porches leading into basements, and gapping or decaying chimneys are all potential entrances.

Take a look around your home for gaps and damaged areas. Dusk is generally when bats leave homes to forage, so step outside then to get an idea of where they’re coming and going. All it takes is one hole to find a way in. Make sure you catch every spot to keep bats out and nesting elsewhere.

Do you need wildlife removal services? Request a quote today!

Share This