Squirrel in the Loft? How to Find Entry Points and Stop Them Coming Back
If you’ve had squirrels in the loft, blocking the noise or chasing them out is not enough. Squirrels almost always return through the same weak points unless entry holes are found and fixed correctly. This guide explains how squirrels get into lofts, where to look, what damage they leave behind, and how to stop repeat infestations — without making the problem worse.
Why Finding Entry Points Is the Most Important Step
Many loft infestations fail to stay resolved because entry points are ignored. Squirrels are creatures of habit. Once they find a safe way inside, they will reuse it, widen it, and teach younger squirrels the same route.
Blocking the wrong hole — or blocking it too early — can cause trapped squirrels, frantic damage inside the loft, or new holes being chewed elsewhere on the roof. Correct identification and timing are essential.
How Squirrels Get Into Lofts
Squirrels do not need large gaps. A hole the size of a tennis ball is often enough, and they can enlarge smaller weaknesses quickly using their teeth.
- Chewing through soft timber, fascia boards, or rotten wood
- Pushing under lifted roof tiles or slipped slates
- Entering through damaged soffits or vents
- Using chimney gaps or uncapped flues
- Exploiting old repairs or poorly sealed rooflines
Common Squirrel Entry Points to Check First
Roofline and Eaves
- Chewed corners on fascia boards
- Loose or missing soffit panels
- Gaps where roof meets guttering
- Dark staining around entry holes
Roof Tiles and Slates
- Lifted tiles near the roof edge
- Broken slate corners
- Nesting material visible under tiles
- Repeated disturbance in the same area
Vents and Pipe Openings
- Unprotected roof vents
- Cracked vent covers
- Pipe penetrations without metal collars
Chimneys
- Uncapped chimney pots
- Gaps around flashing
- Nesting debris falling into fireplace
Clues That Reveal Entry Points at Night
Squirrels are often active early morning and late afternoon, but night-time movement still provides valuable clues. Many homeowners notice scratching or thudding sounds in the same loft area repeatedly.
- Noise always coming from one side of the loft
- Scratching followed by silence, then exit sounds
- Movement near dawn or dusk close to roof edges
- Fresh debris falling onto insulation overnight
Consistent noise patterns usually align with a single access route rather than random movement.
Common Mistakes When Blocking Squirrel Entry Points
- Sealing holes before squirrels are fully removed
- Using expanding foam instead of metal mesh
- Blocking only visible holes while missing secondary exits
- Ignoring roof-level access points
- Repairing damage without addressing surrounding weak areas
How Entry Points Should Be Fixed Properly
Effective proofing follows a specific order to avoid repeat infestations or damage.
- Confirm squirrel activity and entry locations
- Ensure squirrels are removed legally and humanely
- Inspect the full roofline, not just the main hole
- Reinforce weak timber and soffits
- Install metal mesh or guards where needed
- Repair cosmetic damage once access is secured
This process prevents squirrels returning or finding alternative routes into the loft.
Signs of Squirrels in the Loft
Unsure whether it’s squirrels or another pest? See common signs and behaviour.
Squirrel Removal Options
Removal must be done correctly and legally before proofing. Learn how squirrels are removed.
Emergency Pest Control
Active damage or aggressive behaviour? Get urgent help.