Bats in your attic can lead to some significant problems, from health hazards to structural damage caused by their nesting habits. They’re nocturnal and are often drawn to the warmth and shelter of attics – so it’s not uncommon to suspect bats in your attic!
If you’ve noticed a few tell-tale signs, it’s time to act. In this article, we’ll explain why bats choose attics, how to know they’re there, and the steps you can take to safely restore your space.
Bats are drawn to attics for several reasons, making them a common hideout. Primarily, they’re drawn to your home’s upper level due to:
One of the clearest red flags of bats will be their droppings left behind. Bat droppings are small, dark, and pellet-like. You might find piles of guano near entry points or scattered across your attic floor. Unlike rodent droppings, bat guano crumbles easily and may glisten due to insect exoskeletons.
Bats can also leave greasy, brown stains around entry points. You might also notice a strong, musty odor from their droppings and urine, especially if the infestation is large.
Listen for rustling, squeaking, or fluttering sounds, particularly at dusk and dawn when bats are most active. These noises can indicate bats moving around or exiting and entering the attic.
Additionally, seeing bats flying around your home at dusk or dawn is a strong indicator. You might also spot them roosting in dark corners of your attic if you inspect carefully.
Finally, a sudden increase in insects around your home could suggest bats are nearby, as they feed on these pests.
The nuisance of bats in your attic may be the first issue that comes to mind, but there are more serious risks as well. Bat droppings can harbor a fungus that causes histoplasmosis, a respiratory illness. When guano accumulates, the spores can become airborne and pose a risk to anyone inhaling them.
Although rare, bats can also carry rabies. Direct contact with a bat or a bat bite can transmit this serious disease to humans and pets.
Over time, bat droppings and urine can corrode wood and other building materials. This can lead to structural damage, requiring costly repairs. The strong, musty odor from bat guano and urine can permeate your home, and stains around entry points can be difficult to clean, attracting other pests.
Once you’ve suspected signs, it’s important to confirm what you’re noticing and act promptly but safely. First, during the day, carefully inspect your attic with a flashlight. Look in dark corners, on beams, and in or near insulation.
Examine the exterior of your home, especially around the roof, vents, and eaves, for any gaps or cracks that could serve as entry points for bats.
It’s important to avoid handling bats directly due to the risk of diseases – professionals have the know-how and equipment to handle the situation.
If you confirm a bat population in your attic or spot potential entry points, trained experts should use specialized gear (including gloves, masks, and sometimes full protective suits) to protect themselves from guano and potential airborne contaminants during an in-depth assessment.
After bats are removed, pest control professionals (or a service they recommend to you) will clean the attic thoroughly. This includes removing all guano, sanitizing affected areas, and safely disposing of contaminated materials.
Lastly, addressing any structural damage caused by bats is crucial. For example, replacing any damaged insulation, fixing wood corrosion, and repainting stained areas to restore your attic.
A professional wearing protective gear and inspecting an attic for bats.
Preventing bats from entering your attic in the first place is the best way to avoid the issues they can cause! The most effective preventative measures will include steps like:
In essence, bats in your attic can cause serious problems, and recognizing the signs early will help protect your home (and yourself). Professionals can safely assess the attic and address the issue or refer you to someone who can!
For homeowners in Atlanta, GA, and surrounding areas, schedule an in-depth home inspection with Avalon Home Inspections today.