Maintenance Guides / Pest & Wildlife

Inspect attic vent screens

Difficulty: moderateTime: 45 minsEst. Cost: $50 - $400

Why it matters

Damaged attic vent screens allow bats, squirrels, birds to enter. Infestation leads to structural damage and expensive removal.

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How to do it

  • 1

    From the ground, use binoculars to inspect all visible gable vents.

  • 2

    Look for tears, holes, or missing sections in the screening.

  • 3

    Check soffit vents (narrow horizontal vents under the eaves) for damage.

  • 4

    If you can safely access the attic, inspect ridge vent screens from inside.

  • 5

    Look for light coming through damaged screens, indicating gaps.

  • 6

    For small tears, patch with matching screen material using adhesive.

  • 7

    For larger damage or missing sections, call a contractor to replace.