7 Alarming Things Animals Can Do to Your Roof—and What a Vancouver Roofer Recommends to Stop Them

1. Chewed or Torn Shingles

Squirrels and raccoons love to chew their way into attics, often ripping through shingles to get in. If they’re left alone too long, they can cause leaks, damage the layers under your roof, and even mess with the structure of your home. In fact, a local Vancouver roofer might get emergency calls every spring when nesting season begins.

To prevent this, roof contractors often recommend animal-resistant roofing materials like architectural asphalt shingles or reinforced synthetic underlayment. A reputable Vancouver roofer will also check for bite marks, torn edges, or lifted shingles during inspections.

2. Blocked Vents and Clogged Gutters

There are lots of places for birds to nest in Vancouver, especially in the city's green areas. But these blockages can cause water to pool, mold to grow, and even floods inside. Natural Resources Canada says that roofs that don't have enough ventilation are more likely to get damp and keep heat in, which can damage the attic and roofing materials in the long run.

A trustworthy roofer in Vancouver can put up mesh vent covers and suggest drain guards to keep birds out. A lot of roof companies also offer cleaning and testing services that you can use to find these problems early.

3. Scratched or Uplifted Flashing

Animals seeking warmth or shelter may try to lift flashing around chimneys or skylights. This loosens seals and allows rainwater to seep in.

An experienced Vancouver roofer knows this is one of the first things to inspect after an animal sighting. A good roof company in Vancouver will reseal or replace damaged flashing and reinforce it to prevent repeat invasions.

4. Animal Droppings and Debris Buildup

Even though bird droppings and nesting materials may not seem like a big deal, they are acidic and can damage shingles, stain metals, and bring in more pests. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) says that regular roof care is necessary to avoid moisture problems. This is especially important to avoid problems caused by organic debris like leaves and bird droppings, which can weaken the roof over time.

If your roof has changes in color or clumps of leaves, a trained Vancouver roofer can help you clean and sanitize it safely. Some roof contractors also say that trouble areas can be checked regularly with drones instead of full climbs.

5. Chewed Wires on Rooftop Units

It’s not just your shingles at risk. Rodents can chew wires on rooftop HVAC units or solar panels, which may lead to outages or even electrical fires.

That’s why a proactive Vancouver roofer works closely with HVAC and solar professionals to install protective guards and coverings. It’s a service many rooftop roofing companies in Vancouver now include as part of their maintenance plans.

6. Entry into Attics Through Weak Spots

If there’s a small hole in your soffit or roofline, chances are a raccoon will find it. Once inside your attic, they can destroy insulation, chew wood, and even raise a family—multiplying the damage.

A seasoned Vancouver roofer shared that more animals tend to sneak into roofs during the colder months, especially in places like Burnaby and North Vancouver. His advice? Cover up any openings with metal mesh and have a trusted roof company in Vancouver check your roof twice a year.

7. Noise, Stress, and Hidden Health Risks

Animal activity doesn’t just damage your roof—it affects your peace of mind. Scratching, thumping, and chirping noises can disrupt sleep and add anxiety to your daily life.

Worse, raccoons, birds, and rodents carry diseases. A certified Vancouver roofer will not only assess physical damage but may also coordinate with pest control to ensure the problem is fully addressed. Top roof companies in Vancouver emphasize safety as much as structure.

What a Vancouver Roofer Recommends to Keep Animals Away

A reliable Vancouver roofer doesn’t just fix leaks and replace shingles—they help you take proactive steps to avoid bigger issues down the line. When it comes to animals on your roof, prevention is always better (and cheaper) than repair. 

Here’s what most experts strongly recommend:

• Trim trees that provide roof access
  Tree branches hanging over your roof can make it easy for squirrels, raccoons, and even rats to get up there. A good Vancouver roofer will usually point this out during an inspection and recommend trimming those branches to keep animals from using them like a shortcut to your roof.
  
  
• Install vent and chimney guards
  Birds and small mammals love to sneak into open vents and chimneys. Guards and mesh screens can keep critters out without blocking airflow or creating a fire hazard. Most roof contractors can install these protective barriers quickly and affordably.
  
  
• Seal eaves, soffits, and roofline gaps
  Even small gaps along the roof’s edge can be enough for a determined raccoon or squirrel to squeeze through. A skilled roof company in Vancouver will inspect for signs of wear or entry points and seal them with rodent-resistant materials.
  
  
• Schedule spring and fall roof inspections
  These two seasons are the most active for animal nesting and roof damage. Booking regular inspections with a trusted Vancouver roofer allows for early detection and prevention of potential animal-related issues before they escalate.
  
  
• Work with reputable roof contractors who understand wildlife risks
  Not all roofers specialize in wildlife prevention. Choose a rooftop roofing company that has experience with animal-proofing and understands how local wildlife behaves—especially in Vancouver’s urban and wooded neighborhoods.
  
  

Partnering with an experienced Vancouver roofer ensures your home is protected not just from rain and snow—but also from the raccoons, squirrels, and birds quietly turning your roof into their next hideout. With expert help, you can keep your roofing system strong, secure, and pest-free year-round.

Conclusion

Animals may be silent invaders, but their damage is anything but small. From chewed wires to attic infestations, the harm they cause can cost thousands in repairs—and lead to dangerous conditions.

If you’ve seen signs of animal activity or just want to be proactive, connect with a certified Vancouver roofer today. A quick inspection now can save you from a much bigger headache later.

Have you had animal problems on your roof before? Share your experience—or take it a step further by exploring these 7 Effective Ways a Vancouver Roofer Recommends to Deal with Roof Pests for more in-depth solutions and prevention tips.

Your roof isn’t just a barrier from the elements—it’s also the first line of defense against unwanted guests. Let a trusted roof company in Vancouver help you keep it that way.