Job Overview
Location: Waterloo, Ontario
Structure: Large Stone Home with a Cedar Shake Roof
Problem: Squirrel activity reported throughout the roof
Service: Squirrel removal and full exterior exclusion
Visits: Three visits
Summary
A homeowner in Waterloo reported recurring squirrel activity in the attic of a large stone home with a cedar shake roof. Due to winter access limitations and the complexity of the roof structure, the work was completed over multiple visits. A full exclusion was ultimately performed, resolving the issue with no further wildlife activity reported.
Background / Property Context
This property was a large, older stone home located in the Bridgeport North area of Waterloo. Like many century homes in this neighbourhood, the house featured a cedar shake roof and a complex roofline with custom-built vents and soffit details that do not conform to modern construction standards. These characteristics, while visually appealing, often create vulnerabilities for wildlife entry, particularly squirrels.
The work began during winter conditions, which significantly limited roof access due to ice, height, and the fragile nature of cedar shake roofing.
Customer Concern
The homeowner reported hearing scratching and movement in the attic during the morning and early evening. Based on the timing of the activity and the behaviour patterns common to the area, squirrel activity was suspected.
Inspection & Findings
Visit 1 – Initial Inspection (Winter)
A perimeter and soffit inspection was conducted; however, full roof access was limited due to icy conditions and the risk of damaging the cedar shake roof. Cedar shake becomes extremely slippery in winter and can be easily damaged by roof cleats, making safe access difficult without additional personnel.
Despite these limitations, the technician identified an active entry point at a soffit intersection along the roofline. One additional vulnerable area was also observed nearby.
Treatment / Removal
Visit 1 – Initial Removal Work
A one-way door was installed over the primary soffit entry point to allow the squirrel to exit safely. The secondary vulnerable area was sealed using galvanized steel mesh. Due to access and safety constraints, only the immediately affected section of the roof could be addressed during this visit. A broader exclusion plan for the remaining roofline was documented and quoted for future work.
Follow-Up Inspection & Expanded Findings
Visit 2 – Follow-Up Inspection (Eight Months Later)
Approximately eight months later, the homeowner reported renewed activity in a similar area of the roof. This time, the inspection was performed with a second technician present to allow safer and more complete access to the roof structure.
During this visit, multiple additional entry points were identified across different sections of the roof. The interior attic was also inspected, revealing squirrel droppings and nesting material in more than one area, indicating activity in separate attic spaces. This is common in large homes, where multiple attic voids can allow more than one animal to occupy the structure independently.
An updated exclusion plan was prepared to address all identified vulnerabilities.
Exclusion & Repairs
Visit 3 – Full Exclusion Work
The technicians returned to complete the newly approved exclusion work. This visit included:
Installation of two additional one-way doors at separate active entry points, confirming the presence of squirrels in different attic sections
Sealing approximately 15 feet of soffit intersections using black rubber-coated galvanized steel mesh
Applying 10 feet of exterior-grade sealant to reinforce sealed areas
Identifying and securing a gable vent that had previously been hidden by snow
Installing a custom mesh cover over a dual wall vent, with an additional one-way door fitted to allow safe exit
Addressing a fifth entry point near a gutter line where squirrels had accessed an area adjacent to a previously sealed section
In total, five one-way doors were installed at various locations around the home, followed by permanent sealing once activity had ceased. The homeowner elected to remove attic debris themselves after the exclusion was completed.
Outcome & Confirmation
Upon returning to remove the one-way doors and complete final sealing, the homeowner reported no further noise or activity in the attic or roof areas. A final inspection confirmed that all identified entry points had been secured. Since completion of the work, there have been no additional wildlife issues reported at the property.
Technician Notes
Older stone homes with cedar shake roofs and custom ventilation details often require phased wildlife control due to access limitations and the number of potential entry points. In large homes with multiple attic spaces, it is not uncommon to find more than one animal occupying separate areas of the structure. A comprehensive exclusion plan is essential to achieving long-term results.
If you are having wildlife or rodent issues Contact us at 226-778-3098