Raccoons

Raccoons in Your Home: How we can Help

Raccoons are undeniably cute in the wild, but when they find their way into your home, they can quickly turn into a major problem. These nocturnal creatures are resourceful, intelligent, and determined, making them one of the more challenging pests to deal with. In this article, we’ll explore why raccoons enter homes, the potential damage they cause, and how Freeman Nuisance can help you resolve this issue.

Why Do Raccoons Enter Homes?

Raccoons are opportunistic animals, and your home could be an attractive target for several reasons. Whether it’s the warmth, food, or shelter, raccoons will find a way to enter if they can.

1. Food: Raccoons are scavengers by nature and will happily raid trash cans or pet food bowls left outside. If there’s a food source nearby, they’ll likely explore your home in search of a meal.
2. Shelter: During colder months or periods of heavy rain, raccoons seek shelter in attics, basements, or chimneys to stay warm and dry. Your home can provide the perfect environment for them to nest.
3. Curiosity and Breeding: Like most animals, raccoons are also looking to reproduce, especially during the spring and summer months. If they find an accessible space, they might decide to make a den in your attic or crawlspace.

The Dangers of Raccoons in Your Home

While raccoons might seem harmless, they can cause significant damage and health risks to your home and family. Here are some of the major concerns:

1. Structural Damage: Raccoons have sharp claws and strong teeth that they use to tear through roofing materials, vents, insulation, and wires. Their entryways can leave holes in your roof, soffits, or siding, leading to leaks and further damage. Once inside, they may also create nests in insulation, leading to costly repairs.
2. Electrical Hazards: As they search for food or shelter, raccoons may chew on electrical wires. This can cause short circuits, fires, and other electrical issues that can be dangerous for your home and family.
3. Health Risks: Raccoons are carriers of various diseases such as rabies, leptospirosis, and parasites like ticks, fleas, and roundworms. Their droppings and urine can also contribute to the spread of these diseases, especially in hidden places like attics or walls. Their presence increases the risk of contamination in your home.
4. Noise and Disruption: Raccoons are nocturnal creatures, and their movements in your attic or walls can create loud, disturbing noises during the night. This can lead to sleepless nights and increased stress for homeowners.

How We Can Help

If you’ve discovered a raccoon problem in your home, it’s important to act quickly. Freeman Nuisance can provide a comprehensive solution to ensure your home is protected and safe. Here’s how our professionals can help:

1. Inspection and Identification: Our experts will begin with a thorough inspection of your property to locate any potential entry points. They’ll assess your attic, roof, vents, and any other spaces raccoons might use to gain access.
2. Safe and Humane Trapping: Raccoons can be tricky to catch due to their intelligence and ability to avoid traps. Freeman Nuisance will use humane methods to trap and remove the raccoons without harming them, ensuring your family and pets are safe in the process.
3. Exclusion and Prevention: After removing the raccoons, our technicians will seal up any access points to prevent future intrusions. This could involve installing raccoon-proof vents, reinforcing roofs, and repairing gaps or holes in the structure of your home.
4. Sanitation and Decontamination: If raccoons have left behind urine, feces, or nesting material, professionals will clean and disinfect the affected areas. This reduces the risk of diseases and eliminates any lingering odors or contaminants.
5. Ongoing Monitoring: After the raccoons are removed, we often offer follow-up visits or monitoring to ensure that the problem doesn’t recur. This can include periodic checks of potential entry points and keeping an eye on areas that may attract future pests.

Conclusion

Raccoons in your home can lead to significant damage and health risks, but with the help of a Freeman Nuisance, you can protect your home from further harm. By identifying entry points, removing the animals safely, and providing preventive measures, experts ensure your home stays safe and secure. If you suspect a raccoon problem, don’t hesitate to contact us for a thorough inspection and a tailored solution that works for your home.

Remember, acting quickly can prevent a minor nuisance from becoming a major infestation!