28 Jun

Preventive Raccoon Exclusion on Residential Roof in Toronto

Job Overview

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Structure: Two-storey detached red brick house
Problem: Reported raccoon activity on the roof; entry into the roof system unconfirmed
Service: Raccoon exclusion and rooftop wildlife prevention
Visits: 2

Summary

Wildlife Shield was contacted to assess reported raccoon activity on a residential roof in Toronto. While no active roof entry point was confirmed during inspection, multiple vulnerable roof and soffit areas were identified. Preventive exclusion and sanitation work was completed to reduce the risk of raccoon access and future roof damage.

Background / Property Context

The property is a two-storey detached red brick home with a pitched asphalt shingle roof. Several roof penetrations, soffit intersections, and vent bases were present, which are common attractants for raccoons seeking shelter or leverage points. Mature trees and nearby structures provided roof access opportunities.

Customer Concern

The homeowner reported seeing raccoon activity on the roof and was concerned about the possibility of entry into the roof system or attic space. Although no interior disturbance was reported, the customer requested a thorough inspection and preventive sealing of sensitive areas.

Inspection & Findings

During the initial inspection, Ardian assessed the full roof surface, vents, plumbing stacks, and soffit intersections. No primary entry point into the roof or attic was identified at the time of service. However, staining, debris, and raccoon droppings were observed on roof surfaces, indicating regular rooftop activity. Several roof penetrations and soffit junctions were identified as potential future entry points if left unprotected.

 

Cause Analysis

Raccoons commonly access residential roofs when overhanging trees, adjacent structures, or roof geometry provide climbing opportunities. Roof vents, plumbing stacks, and soffit intersections can be manipulated by raccoons using body weight and leverage, particularly when flashing or shingles loosen over time. Repeated rooftop activity often precedes attempts to gain entry.

Treatment / Removal

No animal removal was required, as no raccoon was occupying the structure at the time of inspection. Preventive exclusion measures were recommended and approved by the homeowner during the initial visit.

Raccoon droppings present on the roof surface were removed and treated using hospital-grade botanical disinfectants, followed by high-temperature steam sanitation exceeding 100 degrees to reduce biological contamination.

Exclusion & Repairs

Wildlife Shield completed the following exclusion work during the first visit:

  • Installed four galvanized steel roof vent covers to prevent raccoon access through vent openings.
  • Sealed three plumbing vent bases with galvanized steel mesh to prevent shingles from being lifted.
  • Secured one large soffit intersection using approximately seven feet of galvanized steel mesh.
  • Reinforced a second soffit intersection with galvanized steel mesh to eliminate access gaps.

All materials were mechanically fastened and conformed to the existing roof and soffit structure to ensure durability and weather resistance.

 

 

 

 

Outcome & Confirmation

A follow-up visit was completed to confirm that all exclusion materials remained secure and properly fitted. No further raccoon activity was reported by the homeowner. All sealed areas were re-inspected, and the roofline showed no signs of new disturbance or attempted entry.

Technician Notes

Ardian completed a full rooftop inspection and preventive exclusion service. No structural entry was present at the time of inspection. Work focused on long-term wildlife prevention at known raccoon pressure points. All work was completed safely using working-at-heights procedures.

This work was completed by our Toronto Wildlife control team. For Wildlife control inquiries in Toronto, contact 647-496-2211.

17 May

Preventative Roofline Wildlife Exclusion – North York

Job Overview

Location: North York, Ontario
Structure: Detached bungalow with red brick exterior
Problem: Concern about potential wildlife access through the roof
Service: General wildlife inspection and preventative exclusion
Visits: 2 visits

Summary

Wildlife Shield completed a two-visit service for a detached bungalow in North York after the homeowner reported frequent wildlife activity on the property and roof. Although no active entry points were found during inspection, the homeowner elected to proceed with preventative exclusion to reduce future risk. All work was completed using durable, non-lethal exclusion methods designed to protect roofline vulnerabilities.

Background / Property Context

The property is a single-storey red brick bungalow with multiple roof penetrations, including roof vents, a plumbing vent, soffit intersections, and chimney flashing areas. These features are common access points for wildlife if left unprotected, particularly in residential neighbourhoods with mature trees nearby.

Customer Concern

The homeowner was concerned that wildlife observed on the roof could eventually gain access to the attic or roof cavity. They requested a professional inspection to confirm whether any animals had already entered and to identify potential risk areas.

Inspection & Findings

During the initial inspection, our technician accessed the roofline and attic-adjacent areas to check for signs of entry, damage, or displacement of roofing components. No active entry points, openings, or evidence of wildlife nesting were found at the time of inspection. Several roof features were identified as potential future access points if left unprotected.

 

Cause Analysis

Wildlife frequently investigates rooflines while moving across residential properties, especially where trees provide easy access. Roof vents, plumbing vent bases, soffit intersections, and chimney flashing can create small gaps over time due to weathering and building movement. Preventative exclusion helps address these vulnerabilities before animals are able to exploit them.

Treatment / Removal

No wildlife removal was required, as there was no confirmed entry or active infestation. The service focused entirely on preventative measures.

Exclusion & Repairs

On the second visit, Wildlife Shield returned to complete roofline exclusion work. This included:

  • Installation of ten galvanized steel roof vent covers
  • Sealing of a soffit intersection using galvanized steel mesh
  • Sealing the base of one plumbing vent to prevent access beneath the shingles

Photos from the service show galvanized mesh and vent covers securely fastened around roof penetrations, as well as completed screening at chimney and roofline intersections.

 

 

 

Outcome & Confirmation

Following the exclusion work, all identified roofline vulnerabilities were protected. A final inspection confirmed that screening and vent covers were properly secured and that no gaps remained. No further wildlife activity was reported after completion of the work.

Technician Notes

The inspection and exclusion work were completed by our technician, Ardian. The homeowner expressed relief after the inspection confirmed no existing entry and was satisfied with proceeding proactively to protect the roof and attic from future wildlife access.