How to Keep Birds and Insects Out of Metal Roofing Holes

Roofs come in many shapes and sizes, although metal roofs are a popular choice for many homeowners. Praised for their durability and longevity, metal roofs often last years longer than their asphalt shingle counterparts. One disadvantage of metal roofs, however, is that the holes left behind by storms are more difficult to patch than traditional roofing. These larger holes allow birds and insects to invade your home, but a little attention to detail will keep these pests outside where they belong until the hole is properly repaired.

Ladder
Marker flags
Fine metal mesh
Staple gun
Roofing staples
Self-fusing silicone tape

Instructions

- 1
  Climb up the ladder and examine the roof for holes. Birds and insects can squeeze into very small spaces, so stick a marker flag in small holes to avoid missing them as you patch.
- 2
  Cut a piece of fine metal mesh slightly larger than the hole, and add an inch on each side for extra coverage. Trimming the metal patch slightly bigger than the hole allows for plenty of room to properly secure the patch to the hole.
- 3
  Lay the patch directly over the hole, and staple it down. Affix staples at 1/2-inch intervals around the perimeter of the hole to keep bugs and birds from prying up the edge of the patch and squeezing into the hole.
- 4
  Tape the edge of the patch to the roof with self-fusing silicone tape. Press down firmly as you apply the tape to create a tight seal between mesh and roof. Silicone tape is durable and waterproof, and will keep out even the most persistent birds and insects.

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