Help · Pest damage

Squirrel chewed through my gutter — what to do

If a squirrel chewed through your gutter or downspout, the right fix is: (1) seal the hole temporarily with metal flashing + butyl tape, (2) install hardware cloth at the downspout top opening to prevent re-entry, (3) trim back any tree branches within 5 feet of the roof, and (4) get the gutter section professionally re-patched or replaced within 30 days.

Why squirrels chew gutters

Squirrels chew gutters and downspouts for two reasons: (1) they want to nest inside the gutter system (downspouts especially), and (2) their teeth never stop growing, so they chew metal to wear them down. Aluminum is soft enough for squirrel incisors. Once they create an opening, they often turn it into a nesting site or a route into your attic.

Immediate emergency patch

If water is actively leaking out of the hole during rain, patch it temporarily:

  • Clean the area around the hole with a rag
  • Apply gutter sealant (butyl-based, not silicone) inside the gutter at the hole
  • Cover with a piece of aluminum flashing pressed into the wet sealant
  • Hold for 30 seconds; tape over with strong waterproof tape

This buys you 1-2 months. Then schedule a proper repair.

Permanent repair options

Small hole (under 2 inches): Cut a piece of matching aluminum flashing 2 inches larger than the hole. Apply butyl tape to the back. Rivet in place inside the gutter. Seal edges with gutter sealant. $200-$400 by a contractor.

Large hole or repeated damage: Replace the affected gutter section. Splice in 8-10 feet of new gutter with miters at each end. $400-$700 typical.

Downspout hole: Easier — replace the affected downspout section entirely. $150-$300.

Stop them from coming back

  • Install hardware cloth (1/4-inch mesh) over downspout top openings
  • Trim tree branches at least 5 feet back from the roof — squirrels use them as bridges
  • Inspect attic vents and chimney for entry points
  • Consider gutter guards with closed mesh (LeafBlaster Pro) which also discourages nesting

Frequently asked

Will my insurance cover squirrel damage?

Usually no — pest damage is typically excluded from HO-3 policies. Worth checking your specific policy.

Can I just leave a small hole if I don't see water leaking?

No — even small holes let squirrels back in and create entry routes into the attic. Patch within 30 days.

How do I know if squirrels are nesting in my downspout?

Look for: small twigs and leaves piled at the downspout discharge (squirrels carry nesting material in and dump some at the outlet), scratching sounds in the downspout, and unusual debris in the gutter that doesn't match nearby trees.

Need a pro to handle it?

Premier Gutters KC handles all of these problems across the Kansas City metro. Free 24-48 hour inspection. Written quote with no pressure. Call (816) 469-9563 or request a quote online.

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