Our experienced roofers detail how to prevent birds nesting on your roof. Birds nesting on roofs is a common problem that homeowners face in the UK. The problem can be caused by a number of factors, including poor design and lack of maintenance. It’s important to understand how to prevent birds from nesting in your home before it becomes an issue.
How Do you Know if Your House has Bird Nests?
The signs of nesting are usually obvious. You may notice bird droppings or feathers around the area where the nest was built. If this happens, then there’s no need for alarm. However, if you find an active nest with eggs or chicks, then you should take action immediately.
What Causes Bird Nesting?
Bird nests are often found in homes with open eaves. This means that rainwater runs off the roof into the gutter system and drains down through the gutters. When water collects at the bottom of the gutter, it drips onto the ground below.
This creates ideal conditions for your feathered friends to build their nests. They use these areas as shelter from predators and also because they provide them with food sources and protection. As a result, many people have reported seeing birds building nests on their rooftops.
Why Does Bird Nesting Cause Problems?
If you don’t remove the nest when you spot it, then you risk having more than one bird nesting in your attic or roof space. This could lead to serious health risks such as disease and even death.
If you decide not to remove the nest, then you run the risk of attracting other unwanted visitors. These include mice and rats which will eat any eggs or chicks left behind.
How to Prevent Birds Nesting on the Roof?
There are over 600 bird species in the UK. Some of them may inadvertently end up nesting in your home. There are several ways to prevent them from nesting on your rooftop. Here are some tips to help you:
- Keep your gutters clean
Make sure that all of the debris and leaves that collect in your gutters are removed regularly. This way, you won’t create ideal conditions for birds to nest.
- Use bird deterrents
You can buy special products designed to keep birds away from your property. These products work by emitting sounds or smell that scare birds away.
- Install screens
Screens are another option to protect yourself against bird nesting. Screens are mesh-like materials that allow air to flow freely but block out pests such as rodents and insects.
- Repair leaky pipes
Leaky pipes are a major source of water damage. If you notice leaks, then you should repair them immediately. This way, you’ll avoid creating ideal conditions for bird nesting.
- Seal cracks and holes
Cracks and holes in your walls and ceilings are perfect places for birds to enter. Make sure that you seal all of these up so that birds cannot get inside.
- Clean gutters
Gutters are prone to collecting leaves and debris. If you leave this material in place, then it could attract unwanted guests such as birds. To make sure that your gutters remain free of debris, you should check them every few months.
- Remove trees and shrubs
Trees and shrubs can become a haven for birds. They’re attracted to these plants because they offer shade and shelter. However, if you want to keep your tree healthy, then you should trim back its branches.
- Maintain your chimney
Chimneys are an important part of your home. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to heat your house properly. Unfortunately, this is where problems tend to arise. It’s common for birds to find refuge in chimneys. You can reduce the chances of this happening by keeping your chimney clean.
- Avoid using pesticides
Pesticides are toxic chemicals that kill living organisms including insects and animals. Pesticides can cause harm to humans too. Therefore, you should always exercise caution when applying them around your home.
- Plant native flowers
Native flowers are beautiful and attractive. They look great in gardens and landscapes. They’re also beneficial to wildlife. For example, they serve as food sources for bees and butterflies.
- Provide nesting boxes
Nesting boxes are small structures made specifically for birds. They provide safe areas where birds can raise their young. You can install nesting boxes in your garden or balcony.
- Use bird feeders
Bird feeders are one of the best methods to encourage birds to visit your property. Feeders come in different shapes and sizes. The most popular types include hanging feeders, tabletop feeders, and self-drinking feeders.
- Create a backyard habitat
If you want to attract more birds to your yard, then you should create a backyard habitat. A backyard habitat consists of various features that will help birds thrive. Some examples include ponds, waterfalls, and birdbaths.
While the above-mentioned tips may help in preventing birds nesting, pest control companies may also be able to help deal with the birds in a humane way.
FAQs
Can birds’ nests be removed?
Yes, bird’s nest removal is possible but if it’s an active nest make sure that you don’t harm the chicks or eggs.
Do bird’s nests affect air quality?
Birds’ nests contain droppings which can lead to bad odors and allergies. Also, bird’s nests can carry diseases like salmonella.
How do I remove bird’s nests from my house?
You need to contact a professional company that specializes in removing bird’s nests. These professionals have special equipment that helps them safely remove bird’s nests without harming the babies.
What happens after I remove bird’s nests?
After you remove the nests, you’ll need to clean the area thoroughly. This includes cleaning the surrounding area and disinfecting any surfaces that were touched by the nest.
Check our last post out here: How To Stop Condensation On Metal Roofs
