Preventing Raccoons from Climbing Your House

First, you need to make sure the raccoon is not using your house as a home. Details on inspection are at http;//icwdm.org. Never prevent access if the raccoon is living in/on the building. In that situation, you must control the animal according to state law and then after install prevention materials.


As for preventing access (assuming the raccoon is not living there),

1. trim back tree branches at least 4 feet from roof line. This includes horizontally and vertically.

2. install porcupine wire at corners, downspouts and other spots where raccoons can climb. They can't climb flat surfaces (i.e. straight up the wall) but can easily climb corners, vines, and downspouts.

a. Use three strips of 1 foot long porcupine wire (one brand name is called Nixalite; no endorsement is implied) laid out horizontally at least 9 feet off the ground to reduce likelihood of human injury as the spikes are extremely sharp. The spies Space them 4 inches apart at the tips.

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You may need to use longer strips if you have to go over down spouts etc. The key is to have 6 inches of spikes on each side of the corner.

Caulk screws to prevent water from entering structure. Consult local hardware store for best options.

If the shiny spikes are a concern (they are typically made of stainless steel), then paint them before installation.


Again further details at http://icwdm.org including information on what to look for in hiring a qualified wildlife control operator.

Stephen M. Vantassel, CWCP, ACP