The Problem

When Brian walked up to this roof in our corner of Virginia, he noticed something that looked like a simple spot of wear on the shingles. As he got closer, it was clear that critters had chewed right through the material, creating a hidden doorway into the attic. It’s a common issue we see across the Hampton Roads area, and if it’s left alone, it can lead to much bigger problems than just a few noisy roommates in the rafters.

The Technical Why

What happened here is a classic case of critters taking advantage of gaps or weak points in the roof system. They are experts at finding spots where shingles might be poorly installed—often called a "builder's gap"—or where the material has simply aged under the pressure of our local humidity and coastal storms. Once they chew through that outer layer, they have direct access to the wood decking underneath. If that wood gets soft from moisture or rot, they can easily push their way into the warmth of your attic. That’s why using heavy-duty 032 or 040 aluminum drip edge is so important. It acts as a metal barrier that keeps your home sealed tight against unwanted guests.

Professional Advice

If you start hearing scratching noises in your attic, or if you spot odd-looking holes on your roofline, don't wait for the next heavy rain to find out how bad the damage is. You want to be able to sleep through a midnight thunderstorm knowing your home is sealed up and safe. We recommend having a professional take a look at your roofline to ensure your flashing and drip edge are properly installed to keep the elements—and the critters—out.

If you’re worried about a potential entry point or just want a second pair of eyes on your roof, we’re happy to stop by and give you an honest look. Whenever you’re ready to take a closer look, give us a shout at 757-867-6600 or fill out the form on this page. Watch the full Roofing for Reel series to see more behind-the-scenes projects like this one.