Older homes have charm. But beneath the nostalgic woodwork and classic finishes lurk gaps, cracks, and crevices that scream one thing to wild animals: easy access.
From squirrels in the attic to raccoons in the crawl space, wildlife intrusions are more than a nuisance — they’re health risks, fire hazards, and sources of long-term structural damage. In Florida’s warm, subtropical climate, the problem is even more pronounced. As temperatures drop elsewhere, animals migrate south — and your home could be their next winter resort.
But here’s the good news: sealing wildlife entry points is a straightforward, high-impact way to animal-proof your home. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
Why Wildlife Targets Older Florida Homes
Older homes tend to have aging materials, warped wood, and decaying fascia boards. These weaknesses become prime targets for wild animals looking for food, shelter, or nesting space. Gaps around utility lines, crawl space vents, and attic vents offer easy entry for everything from rats to raccoons.
Warm climates like Florida’s also mean wildlife doesn’t hibernate as much — they’re active year-round, constantly on the hunt for homes with available food sources, water, and shelter.
Common Entry Points for Wildlife
Wildlife is clever. Even the smallest holes, gaps, or vents can serve as an invitation.
Here are the most common animal entry points in older Florida homes:
- Roof vents and gable vents
- Crawl spaces and crawl space vents
- Attic vents
- Chimneys (especially those without a chimney cap)
- Dryer vents
- Gaps around doors and windows
- Utility line access holes
- Poorly sealed doors
- Fascia boards and eaves
- Garage doors
- Damaged siding or foundation cracks
Small gaps (as tiny as ¼ inch) are enough for mice. Squirrels only need about 1.5 inches. Raccoons? Around 4 inches. Once in, they can cause significant property damage, leave urine stains, bring in nesting material, and invite other pests.
Step-by-Step: How to Seal Wildlife Entry Points
Sealing entry points isn’t about a quick patch job. It’s about long-term protection. Here’s a systematic approach:
1. Conduct Regular Inspections
You can’t seal what you can’t see.
- Check your home every 3 to 6 months, especially before and after Florida’s rainy seasons.
- Look for gnaw marks, droppings, urine stains, loose siding, or signs of nesting.
- Focus on ground-level access points, rooflines, and around exterior doors and windows.
2. Identify and Prioritize Entry Points
Focus on potential entry points and the most common entry points we outlined earlier.
Look for:
- Small openings near pipes or vents
- Gaps around doors and windows
- Cracks in the foundation
- Bird feeders or pet food left outside — these leave food trails that attract animals
3. Choose the Right Materials
Quick fixes won’t cut it. Invest in permanent repairs using durable materials:
- Hardware cloth (¼ inch) – for vents and crawl space screens
- Metal flashing – great for sealing roof edges and fascia boards
- Copper mesh or steel wool – stuff into holes, then seal over
- Wire mesh – ideal for gable vents, chimneys, and under porches
- Expandable foam – useful for sealing gaps, but should be reinforced with mesh to prevent gnawing
- Door sweeps and weather stripping – essential for poorly sealed doors
- Chimney caps, vent covers, and animal-proof screens – to secure roof and attic entries
Avoid plastic-based materials — rodents can easily chew through them.
4. Seal Gaps Strategically
When sealing gaps, you should:
- Seal entry points starting with the ground level and work up.
- Use caulk or foam sealant around windows, doors, and utility lines.
- Install vent covers on dryer vents, attic vents, and crawl space vents.
- Cover larger openings with mesh and back it with a solid barrier like metal flashing.
- Fix fascia boards or soffits that may have rotted.
5. Remove Attractants
Even a well-sealed home can become a target if you attract animals.
- Don’t store firewood next to the house.
- Clean up bird feeders and pet food.
- Fix leaky outdoor spigots to eliminate water sources.
- Secure garbage cans and compost bins.
6. Consider Professional Exclusion Services
If your home has multiple or hidden entry points — or you’re already dealing with an infestation — it’s time to call professionals.
Contact Nuisance Wildlife Rangers, one of the best wildlife exclusion services in Florida. They’ll not only remove current animals but also provide preventive measures for future intrusions.
Legal and Safety Considerations in Florida
Florida law protects many species of wildlife. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), it is illegal to trap or remove certain animals without a permit. Improper removal can result in fines or worse — harm to protected species like bats or certain birds.
Sealing should always be done after verifying that no animals are currently inside. Sealing an animal in can cause death, foul odors, and secondary infestations of other pests.
Risks of Ignoring Wildlife Entry Points
Failing to seal your home properly can lead to:
- Health risks like hantavirus, salmonella, and parasites
- Fire hazards from chewed electrical wiring
- Structural damage to insulation, wood, and siding
- Infestation of other animals or insects that follow food trails
- Decreased home value or issues with insurance claims
To avoid expensive damage and foul odors from trapping animals in your home, you should contact professional help. At Nuisance Wildlife Rangers, we can trap and relocate animals before sealing all of the entry points that allowed them access to your home.
Get Connected to Professional Animal Removal in Florida
Sealing wildlife entry points in older homes isn’t a one-and-done fix. It’s a routine part of Florida homeownership — especially for those living near wooded areas, lakes, or older developments.
Keeping wildlife out isn’t just about avoiding pests — it’s about protecting your home, your health, and your peace of mind.
If you’re in Florida and concerned about wild animals making themselves at home, it’s time to act. Prevent problems before they start, and make sure your home stays yours, not a nesting ground for unwanted visitors.
Want help identifying entry points or choosing the right sealing materials? Contact Nuisance Wildlife Rangers; they’ve seen it all and can help you animal-proof your space for good.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I tell if animals are currently living in my home?
Look for subtle signs like scratching or scurrying sounds (especially at night), foul odors (from droppings or urine), displaced insulation, or visible tracks near entry points. You may also notice disturbed attic insulation, chewed wires, or nesting material. If in doubt, a wildlife inspection from a licensed professional is recommended.
2. What time of year is best to seal wildlife entry points?
In Florida, late summer to early fall is ideal. This gives you time to seal up before cooler temperatures drive animals indoors. However, because Florida wildlife activity continues year-round, it’s wise to inspect and seal as needed throughout the year.
3. Can expandable foam alone stop animals from entering?
No. While expandable foam is great for insulation and small cracks, it should never be used alone to deter animals. Rodents and raccoons can easily chew through foam. Always pair it with hardware cloth, metal flashing, or copper mesh for true protection.
4. Are ultrasonic repellents effective for keeping wildlife out?
Ultrasonic devices may have short-term effects on some animals, but they are not a reliable long-term solution. Animals often adapt to the noise or avoid only the immediate area. Physical exclusion (sealing entry points) remains the most effective method.
5. What should I do if I accidentally trap an animal inside my home during sealing?
Stop work immediately and contact a licensed wildlife removal specialist. Sealing an animal inside can lead to death, decomposition, and health risks. Professionals have the tools and permits to safely remove and relocate wildlife per Florida law.
6. Is there a difference between pest control and wildlife exclusion services?
Yes. Pest control typically handles insects and rodents using traps or chemicals. Wildlife exclusion focuses on humane, structural prevention — sealing access points and ensuring animals cannot return. Many homeowners in Florida use both services for full coverage.
