Are pigeons bad for your roof? Absolutely! Many homeowners are reluctant to get pigeons off their roof, either because they don’t want to take the time to put up countermeasures, or don’t have to heart to kick them off. However, pigeons can pose serious problems for your roof that could cost you thousands of dollars.
In this article we’ll cover why pigeons can be such a menace to roofs, and touch on how you can keep them away.
Nesting
When pigeons nest on roofs it poses a multitude of challenges. Nesting pigeons can displace roofing materials, causing leaks and structural damage. Pigeons nesting in gutters create blockages, jeopardizing proper water drainage and inviting potential water damage. Nesting can also lead to other damages to a roof, particularly if they block the flow of water in the valleys of your roof.
Insects
Pigeons on your roof also create an environment conducive to insect infestation. Pigeon nesting materials provide a great habitat for insects like mites and ticks. These pests thrive in the warmth and shelter of the nests, posing a threat to the roof’s integrity. The presence of insects exacerbates the damage caused by the pigeons themselves.
Pecking
Pigeons pecking and poking at your roof while hunting for food can result in significant damage. Their pecking can lead to the formation of holes in roofing materials, compromising the roof’s integrity. This creates pathways for water infiltration, increasing the risk of leaks and structural issues.
Noise
While this one isn’t specific to roof damages, pigeons also cause quite a ruckus, especially during mating seasons. Their cooing and flapping wings could hinder your sleep, and create an overall unpleasant living environment.
Pigeon Droppings
Corrosivity
Bird poop poses a corrosive threat to roofs. The acidic nature of the droppings accelerates corrosion on metal components like gutters and flashing, compromising their structural integrity. Over time, this corrosion weakens the roofing system, potentially causing leaks and costly repairs. This can be a problem for metal roofs in particular, but the corrosivity can extend to other materials, such as paint and wood, causing other types of deterioration.
Disease
Pigeon droppings also pose health risks to humans, and can contain bacteria, fungi, and parasites. When dried droppings crumble into dust, these pathogens become airborne, posing inhalation risks. Diseases like histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and psittacosis are associated with exposure to bird droppings. Inhaling these particles can lead to respiratory issues and flu-like symptoms. Additionally, the bacteria Salmonella may be present, causing gastrointestinal infections. Getting rid of bird droppings on your roof is a great first step in reducing damage to your roof, and also mitigates the risk of these illnesses.
Odor
The odor emanating from bird droppings, particularly in accumulated amounts, is unpleasant and can be pervasive. Pigeon droppings emit a foul smell, and the unpleasant odor not only affects the immediate vicinity but can permeate indoor spaces as well. This impacts the overall air quality and makes the environment less inviting for residents and guests.
Aesthetics
Bird droppings, nests, and debris (all of which are often visible), detract from the aesthetics of the affected buildings. The droppings can discolor surfaces, creating an unappealing and dirty appearance on roofs, walls, and other structures. Over time, the accumulation of bird droppings diminishes the visual appeal of the affected areas, negatively impacting the overall aesthetics of the property. Stains and discoloration can be challenging to remove, requiring extensive cleaning efforts.
Getting Rid of Pigeons
To deter birds effectively, consider humane methods like installing bird spikes, nets, or repellent sprays. Remove food sources and nesting sites, and use visual deterrents like scare devices. Loud noises or predator decoys can also discourage birds from landing on your roof. Professional services may offer more advanced solutions, including electronic repellent devices. Remember to ensure compliance with local regulations and ethical considerations when implementing bird control methods.
Are pigeons bad for your roof? You bet! From structural damage and insect infestation to the corrosive effects of bird droppings, these issues collectively compromise the longevity, functionality, and aesthetics of roofing structures. The implementation of preventive measures, regular cleaning, and appropriate deterrents are essential for mitigating these challenges and preserving the integrity of roof. By understanding and addressing these concerns, property owners can ensure a safer, more aesthetically pleasing, and structurally sound roof that will last for years. Have pigeons already damaged your roof? Get repairs from pigeon damage on our repairs page.