Photo Album: Builder Gap's is an Open Highway for Squirrels in Montgomery, NJ
Squirrel Used the Builder's Gap
The squirrel had chewed a perfect opening for itself right above builder's gap. A builders gap is the gap between the fascia board (where the gutter is hung) and roof decking. This gap is caused when roof decking is stopped too short and is not flush with the fascia. The gap is meant to help with airflow throughout the attic, but is also the perfect place for wildlife to gain access into a home.
Positive We'll Get the Squirrel
We installed a positive set over the chewed out opening and set up a number of baited devices nearby. A positive set is made up of a nose cone that is attached to a two-gaited, heavy-duty device. The nose cone is going to safely guide the squirrel into the device. It's called a positive set, because we are positive that the squirrel will enter the device. As a matter of fact, after a short period of time, it did just that!
Time for Repairs
After relocating the squirrel to a new humane environment, we disinfected the attic and installed a piece of sturdy metal flashing over the chewed-out opening.
Blend it In
We then took an extra piece of roof shingle (that the owner had) and installed it on top of the metal flashing to have it blend in better with the home.