Expert: Richard Taylor, AIA - 5/18/2009

Question
Dear Mr. Taylor:

I am having a problem with the attic in my home.  I have heard animals in the attic and am concerned with how they are entering the attic.  I inspected the perimeter of the house with a ladder looking where the shingles meet the gutter and did not find any holes that an animal could use to gain entry.

I thought you could help me with the ventilation of the attic possibly providing an entry point.   Along the peak of the roof is a device that I believe is there to allow hot air to escape from the attic.  Would this device be big enough for an animal, possibly a squirrel to enter?  

Also, do attics need ventilation?  I recently read an article to say you should cut off all ventilation to the attic.

Thanks for your help.

Sincerely,

John Jones


Answer
John - thanks for your question!

You'll be surprised when you find the hole that the critters are getting in through - squirrels can squeeze through a mighty small opening, probably a lot smaller than you'd think.

Most likely they're getting in through a hole in a soffit, behind a loose board, or something similar.  Keep looking, you'll probably find gnaw or scratch marks, or maybe squirrel droppings nearby.

The vent at the peak is called a ridge vent and is very necessary for the proper ventilation of the attic.  Unless it's somehow damaged, it's very unlikely that squirrels are entering through it, but check it out anyway.

Cutting off all ventilation to the attic is a sure-fire way to destroy your home - don't do it!  If anything, increase the ventilation - air movement in the attic is very important.  Improperly vented attic spaces cause heat and moisture build up and lead to rapid deterioration of shingles, wood, and insulation, and can lead to mold, rot, and other unpleasant outcomes!

Hope this helps,

Richard Taylor, AIA
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