What Happens When Animals Damage Your Fascia?” Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Fix It

In Barrie and surrounding areas, wildlife is part of everyday life. Raccoons, squirrels, birds, and even bats are common sights. Unfortunately, they don’t always stay in the trees—sometimes, they end up in your roof. One of the most vulnerable parts of your home? The fascia.

While fascia boards may not be the most talked-about feature of your home, they play a critical role in protecting your roof structure. When animals damage them, the problems that follow can go far beyond a few scratches. Here’s what happens when wildlife targets your fascia—and why fixing it promptly is essential.

What Is the Fascia, and Why Does It Matter?

The fascia is the vertical board that runs along the edge of your roof, typically where the gutters are mounted. It serves multiple functions:

• Supports the lower edge of the roof
  
  
• Holds the gutter system in place
  
  
• Helps prevent water from getting into the roof deck
  
  
• Acts as a barrier between the attic and the outdoors
  
  

When this component is compromised, water, pests, and debris can make their way into places they don’t belong.

How Do Animals Damage Fascia?

Small animals are persistent. They're often looking for a warm, dry place to nest—especially in the colder months. Here’s how they cause damage:

• Chewing through wood or aluminum fascia to create access points
  
  
• Widening small gaps where the roof meets the fascia board
  
  
• Clogging gutters and water drainage areas with nesting material
  
  
• Scratching, tearing, or prying open joints in vulnerable areas
  
  

Squirrels and raccoons are known for their strength and determination, and birds will take advantage of any opening to build nests. Once they’ve gained access, they can damage insulation, wiring, and even the structural integrity of your home.

The Consequences of Delayed Repairs

Ignoring fascia damage—even minor issues—can lead to more expensive problems down the line:

1. Water Damage and Rot

Damaged fascia allows moisture to seep into the roofline. Over time, this leads to wood rot, mold, and even structural weakening.

2. Gutter Failure

Your gutters rely on the fascia to stay securely attached to your roof. If the fascia board is compromised, your gutter system may sag, detach, or fail to drain water properly.

3. Pest Infestation

One animal may break in, but more will follow. Openings in your fascia invite other pests—including mice, bats, and insects—creating a larger infestation.

4. Energy Loss

Openings in the fascia and soffit can allow cold air to enter your attic, reducing the effectiveness of your insulation and increasing heating bills in winter.

5. Aesthetic Damage

Beyond the structural risks, fascia damage can make your home look neglected. Loose boards, water stains, and animal activity all impact curb appeal and property value.

How Goldhill Can Help

At Goldhill Roofing & Exteriors, we’ve helped hundreds of Barrie homeowners deal with animal-related damage to their fascia and soffit. We offer:

• Comprehensive inspections to identify all points of entry and structural damage
  
  
• Professional removal and replacement of damaged fascia boards
  
  
• Reinforcement options to deter future animal access
  
  
• Gutter repairs or replacements if needed
  
  
• Preventative upgrades like animal-proof venting and steel mesh screening
  
  

We use durable, weather-resistant materials designed to handle both our local climate and persistent wildlife.

Don’t Wait for the Problem to Grow

Animal damage to your fascia is more than just an inconvenience—it’s an open door to bigger, more costly issues. The sooner you address the problem, the easier and more affordable the fix.

If you suspect animals have damaged your fascia or soffit, contact Goldhill Roofing & Exteriors today. We’ll inspect the damage, recommend a long-term solution, and get your home sealed up and secure.