If you’ve recently built a deck or are planning to, you might be wondering how to keep animals out from underneath. Not only can animals cause damage, but they can also create unsanitary conditions and pose safety risks. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to deter animals from making your deck their home. Let’s explore some effective methods to keep animals out from under your deck.
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand that the best approach often involves a combination of methods. This is because different animals have varying behaviors and preferences. So, let’s consider the most common culprits – raccoons, skunks, squirrels, and rodents – and the best ways to keep them at bay.
Physical Barriers
One of the most effective ways to keep animals out from under your deck is to create a physical barrier. This can be achieved in several ways:
1. **Deck Skirting**: Installing skirting around the perimeter of your deck can prevent animals from entering. Ensure the skirting extends from the ground to the bottom of your deck’s frame. You can use hardware cloth, lattice, or solid panels for this purpose.
Hardware Cloth
Hardware cloth is a durable, galvanized steel mesh that’s perfect for keeping out smaller animals like rodents and squirrels. It’s also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
However, it’s important to note that hardware cloth with larger openings can still allow smaller animals to squeeze through. Therefore, opt for a mesh with small openings, typically no larger than 1/4 inch.
Lattice
Lattice provides a more aesthetic solution, allowing air to circulate while keeping animals out. It’s typically made of wood or plastic and can be painted to match your deck’s design.
However, lattice with wide spacing can still allow small animals to enter. So, ensure the lattice has a tight weave or use it in combination with another barrier.
Solid Panels
Solid panels provide a more robust barrier, keeping out larger animals like raccoons and skunks. They can be made of wood, plastic, or composite materials and can be painted or stained to match your deck.
While solid panels are effective, they can also trap heat under your deck, making it warmer in the summer. So, consider using them in combination with other materials to promote airflow.
Deterrent Methods
In addition to physical barriers, there are several deterrent methods you can use to keep animals out from under your deck:
1. **Motion-Activated Lights and Sprinklers**: These devices can be placed under your deck and will activate when they detect motion, startling animals and deterring them from entering.
Motion-Activated Lights
Motion-activated lights can be an effective deterrent for nocturnal animals like raccoons and skunks. The sudden bright light can startle them and cause them to flee.
However, these lights can also be a nuisance to you and your neighbors, especially if they’re triggered frequently by pets or passing wildlife. So, consider using them in combination with other deterrents.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Motion-activated sprinklers work by spraying a sudden burst of water at the animal, startling them and deterring them from entering. They’re effective against a wide range of animals, including rodents, squirrels, and larger pests.
However, they can also be triggered by pets or passing wildlife, so placement is crucial. Additionally, they may not be as effective in colder climates where water can freeze.
2. **Repellents**: There are several animal repellents available that can deter animals from entering your deck. These can be in the form of sprays, granules, or ultrasonic devices:
Sprays and Granules
Sprays and granules often contain ingredients that animals find unpleasant, such as predator urine, hot peppers, or putrescent eggs. These can be applied around the perimeter of your deck to deter animals from entering.
However, these repellents can lose their effectiveness over time, especially in rainy or humid conditions. So, they may need to be reapplied frequently.
Ultrasonic Devices
Ultrasonic devices emit high-pitched sounds that are inaudible to humans but unpleasant to animals. These can be placed under your deck to deter animals from entering.
However, their effectiveness can vary depending on the animal and the specific device. Some animals may become accustomed to the sound over time, reducing its effectiveness.
Habitat Modification
Modifying the habitat around your deck can also help deter animals from entering:
1. **Remove Food Sources**: Animals are attracted to decks that offer easy access to food. So, ensure that you don’t leave pet food or birdseed outside, and keep your grill clean to avoid attracting pests.
Store Food Properly
Store pet food and birdseed in sealed containers and bring them inside when not in use. This can help prevent rodents and other animals from being attracted to your deck.
Additionally, consider using feeders that dispense food in a way that minimizes waste, as scattered food can attract animals.
Keep Your Deck Clean
Regularly clean your deck to remove any food debris, grease, or other attractants. This can help deter animals from being drawn to your deck.
Also, consider using a deck cleaner to remove any mold, mildew, or algae that can accumulate over time. These can provide a food source for some animals, so it’s important to keep your deck clean and well-maintained.
2. **Eliminate Shelter**: Animals are also attracted to decks that offer shelter. So, ensure that there are no potential hiding spots around your deck:
Trim Trees and Shrubs
Trim back any trees or shrubs that are close to your deck. This can help prevent animals from using these as a bridge to access your deck.
Additionally, consider removing any dead trees or branches that could fall and damage your deck or provide shelter for animals.
Store Items Properly
Ensure that any items stored under your deck are in sealed containers. This can help prevent animals from nesting in these items and also protect your belongings from damage.
Additionally, consider using your deck’s storage space efficiently to minimize clutter. This can help make it less attractive to animals looking for a place to nest.
In many cases, a combination of these methods is the most effective way to keep animals out from under your deck. By creating a physical barrier, using deterrents, and modifying the habitat around your deck, you can make your outdoor space more enjoyable and safer.
Remember, it’s important to choose methods that are safe, humane, and effective. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using repellents or other deterrents, and consider the specific needs and behaviors of the animals you’re trying to deter.
With a little effort and the right strategies, you can keep animals out from under your deck and enjoy your outdoor space to the fullest.
