Squirrels are highly resourceful creatures that often find their way into sheds and other outbuildings in search of food, shelter, or a place to build a nest. If you've noticed squirrels taking up residence in your shed, it's essential to take action quickly to prevent damage and keep them out. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to keep squirrels out of your shed.

1. Inspect and Seal All Entry Points

The first step in keeping squirrels out of your shed is identifying and sealing any gaps or openings they might use to gain access. Squirrels can squeeze through very small spaces, so it's essential to do a thorough inspection of your shed.

• Check Doors and Windows: Ensure that doors and windows close tightly. If there are gaps, replace weatherstripping or add sealant to close them. Consider adding a metal mesh or screen over windows to prevent squirrels from entering.
• Inspect the Roof: Squirrels can easily climb roofs and enter through small holes or gaps in roofing material. Inspect the roof for holes, missing shingles, or damaged areas, and repair them promptly.
• Look for Gaps in the Walls: Squirrels often enter sheds through cracks in the walls or areas where the siding is loose. Seal any gaps with caulk, foam sealant, or mesh that is difficult for squirrels to chew through.
• Examine Vents and Pipes: Check any vent openings or areas where pipes enter the shed. Install mesh or hardware cloth over these openings to block access.

2. Install Squirrel-Proofing Materials

If squirrels have already found a way into your shed, you can make it harder for them to return by reinforcing the structure.

• Hardware Cloth: Install hardware cloth (a type of wire mesh) over vents, windows, and other openings. This will prevent squirrels from entering while allowing ventilation.
• Metal Flashing: Consider adding metal flashing around entry points such as doors, windows, and the roof. Squirrels dislike chewing through metal, and this can deter them from attempting to enter.
• Steel Wool: For smaller gaps and holes, use steel wool to seal them up. Squirrels can’t chew through steel wool, so it provides an extra layer of protection.

3. Remove Food Sources

Squirrels are often drawn to sheds because of the food sources available to them. Removing these sources will help make your shed less attractive to squirrels.

• Store Bird Seed in Sealed Containers: If you have bird feeders near your shed, make sure the bird seed is stored in airtight containers. Squirrels will often raid bird seed, and the scent can attract them to your shed.
• Keep Pet Food Secure: If you keep pet food in your shed, make sure it’s stored in secure, animal-proof containers. Squirrels can smell food from a distance and may enter your shed in search of a meal.
• Clean Up Food Scraps: Be diligent about cleaning up any food scraps or waste that might attract squirrels. Keep your shed tidy and free of debris, including nuts, seeds, or any food that may have been left behind.

4. Create Squirrel Deterrents

Several natural deterrents can help keep squirrels from entering your shed. These methods typically rely on scents or textures that squirrels dislike.

• Peppermint Oil: Squirrels are repelled by the strong smell of peppermint oil. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around your shed, particularly near areas where squirrels might enter. You can also mix a solution of peppermint oil and water and spray it around the shed’s perimeter.
• Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili flakes around entry points and areas where squirrels are likely to chew. The strong, spicy scent will deter squirrels from coming near.
• Mothballs: Mothballs have a strong odor that squirrels find unpleasant. Place mothballs in areas where squirrels are likely to enter or near stored items that may attract them. However, be cautious when using mothballs if you have pets or children, as they can be toxic if ingested.
• Predator Urine: The smell of predator urine, such as fox or coyote urine, is a natural squirrel deterrent. You can purchase predator urine from gardening or outdoor supply stores. Apply it around your shed to give the impression that predators are nearby.

5. Install a Squirrel Trap

If squirrels are persistent and continue to enter your shed, trapping them might be necessary. Live traps can be a humane way to capture squirrels and relocate them away from your property.

• Choose a Live Trap: Select a live trap large enough to hold a squirrel. These traps are designed to capture the squirrel without harming it. Once the squirrel is caught, relocate it at least 5-10 miles away from your shed to prevent it from returning.
• Bait the Trap: Use peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or nuts as bait to lure the squirrel into the trap. Place the trap near areas where you’ve seen squirrel activity.
• Check Traps Regularly: Make sure to check traps frequently to avoid leaving a squirrel trapped for too long. Once you’ve captured a squirrel, release it immediately.

6. Trim Nearby Trees and Shrubs

Squirrels are excellent climbers and can easily access your shed if nearby trees or shrubs provide a pathway. Trim back branches and remove vegetation that squirrels might use to jump onto your shed or roof.

• Trim Branches Close to the Shed: Cut back any tree branches that are within 8-10 feet of your shed. Squirrels can use branches to leap onto the roof or walls, so removing this access will help keep them away.
• Remove Shrubs or Vines: If you have dense shrubs or vines near your shed, trim them back. These plants can give squirrels cover as they move towards your shed, so removing them will make the area less inviting.

7. Consider Professional Help

If you've tried all of the above methods and squirrels continue to invade your shed, it may be time to call in a professional pest control service. Wildlife control experts have the tools and experience to deal with squirrel infestations effectively.

• Humane Removal Services: Many pest control services offer humane wildlife removal, which includes safely trapping and relocating squirrels.
• Exclusion Services: A professional can also help you identify and seal any hidden entry points you may have missed and provide advice on long-term prevention.

Conclusion: How to Keep Squirrels Out of Your Shed

Keeping squirrels out of your shed requires a combination of preventive measures and deterrents. By sealing entry points, removing food sources, using natural repellents, and trimming trees or shrubs, you can reduce the likelihood of squirrels entering your shed. If needed, use traps or contact a pest control professional to handle any persistent squirrel problems. With these steps, you can protect your shed from damage and ensure it remains squirrel-free.