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Removing a raccoon from your property does not automatically eliminate the risk of future intrusions. Buildings with accessible entry points remain vulnerable to new raccoons, or even the same animal returning after being released/relocated.
Exclusion is a long-term property protection strategy that complements raccoon removal. Learn why exclusion is a critical part of effective raccoon control.
Why Raccoon Removal Does Not Prevent Future Infestations
One of our team members likens raccoon removal without preventative measures for the future to catching her escaped horses and returning them to their pasture without knowing how or where they got out. It was necessary to understand what happened to ensure the horses didn’t get escape again. In the same way, effective raccoon prevention requires addressing the condition that created the situation in the first place.
When it comes to raccoon infestations, both removal and exclusion are necessary for lasting results. Consider the following:
- A vacant den can attract another raccoon
- Existing entry points remain accessible
- Seasonal wildlife pressure continues
- Small vulnerabilities can become major entry points
Raccoon Exclusion Techniques That Help Prevent Re-Entry
Some valuable exclusion methods require little or no monetary investment and you can take care of them yourself. These measures can help prevent raccoons from returning by making your property less accessible. Prevention methods that involve actual repairs or additions to existing structures should be entrusted to professionals to ensure their integrity and long-term success.
Sealing Roof and Soffit Openings After Raccoon Removal
- Roofing shingles
- Damaged soffits
- Roof intersections
- Fascia gaps
Keep in mind that raccoons are much stronger than they look. It's important to use sturdy and durable materials for repairs.
Reinforcing Roof Vents, Gable Vents, and Utility Openings
Your goal should be to identify and strengthen vulnerable access points.
Securing Crawl Spaces and Foundation Openings
Believe it or not, a raccoon can squeeze through a 4 inch gap or opening. Regular inspections and repairs are a must. Pay special attention to:
- Access beneath decks
- Crawl space vents
- Foundation gaps
Protecting Detached Structures
Your home may not be the only place invaded by raccoons. Outbuildings and even retired equipment can end up being raccoon shelters. These buildings are often overlooked after the main house is secured:
Tree and Roof Access Management
The measures below often do not cost anything, if you’re able to take care of them yourself, and can reduce opportunities for raccoons to access your home. However, none of them represent a standalone solution.
- Pruning branches close to fence or roof lines
- Reducing direct roof access
- Removing unnecessary vegetation, items, or structures that act as climbing aids
Durable Exclusion Materials Matter
When planning on fortifying your home, it's best to go big or go home. Raccoons display exceptional strength and determination and won't be deterred by plastic or aluminum covers. When choosing your materials, look for:
- Wildlife-resistant materials
- Weather resistance
- Long-term durability
This is where a professional assessment and consultation may prove invaluable.Professional wildlife exclusion can help ensure that repairs address the vulnerabilities that allow raccoons to enter. Contact a professional wildlife operator like Hawkeye Bird & Animal Control.
Why Temporary Repairs Often Fail
Exclusion methods and repairs must be able to withstand both wildlife pressure and weather. Incorrectly installed caps or covers will fail quickly. When repairing or reinforcing, avoid:
- Foam and temporary fillers
- Lightweight screening
- Untested DIY repairs
- Repairs that don't address structural weaknesses
Raccoon Exclusion Considerations for Different Property Types
The first and arguably most important part of raccoon exclusion is the identification and assessment of the nature of your property’s structural weaknesses. This starts and ends with regular inspections of the following:
Residential Homes
Apartment and Condominium Buildings
- Shared roof systems
- Balconies
- Vertical pipes
- Service penetrations
- Mechanical rooms
Commercial Buildings
- Loading docks
- Rooftop equipment
- Service entrances
- Waste handling areas
- Maintenance rooms
Industrial Facilities
- Large roof spans
- Ventilation systems
- Equipment rooms
- Multiple utility penetrations
Farms and Rural Properties
- Barns
- Workshops
- Feed sheds
- Livestock buildings
- Equipment sheds
The exclusion principles and remedies remain the same for all of the above, but the vulnerable areas differ by property type and usage.
Common Exclusion Mistakes That Lead to Repeat Raccoon Problems
- Below are some mistakes often made by homeowners trying to tackle their raccoon problems by themselves. These mistakes can lead to compound damages and recurring infestations:
- Sealing openings before confirming all raccoon have left
- Repairing only the obvious damage
- Ignoring secondary entry points
- Overlooking detached buildings
- Delaying permanent repairs
Permanent Raccoon Removal and Professional Exclusion Services
Raccoon exclusion is not only important but also necessary. Ideally, it should be taken care of before an animal ever enters your home, but it is equally important after intruding animals have been removed in order to prevent a repeat infestation. A licensed, professional wildlife removal company like Hawkeye is your best ally to allow for long-term success. Here's how we can help:
- Comprehensive property inspections
- Proper management of mothers, kits, and active den sites
- Permanent raccoon removal
- Property-specific exclusion planning
- Identifying multiple entry points and wildlife pressure
- Durable repairs designed to reduce future re-entry
- Matching repairs to building design and usage
Hawkeye combines permanent raccoon removal with professional exclusion for a complete raccoon control solution for properties in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Permanent raccoon removal followed up with exclusion provides a more comprehensive approach than relying on either service alone.
Contact Hawkeye for Effective Raccoon Removal and Exclusion
Raccoon removal addresses the immediate infestation, while exclusion focuses on protecting the property against future intrusions. Effective exclusion involves more than sealing visible holes - it requires identifying and securing vulnerable access points throughout the building. Whether you're protecting your home, commercial building, industrial facility, or agricultural property, integrating professional exclusion with raccoon removal can help reduce the likelihood of recurring raccoon problems.
Contact us today and get rid of raccoons for good. Guaranteed.
Hawkeye's raccoon removal and exclusion services are available all across Southern Ontario, including Toronto, Scarborough, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Ajax, Pickering, Newmarket, Etobicoke, Oshawa, and Mississauga.
