Raccoons are notorious for invading homes, often seeking food or shelter. To prevent raccoons from entering a house, securing all entry points, such as gaps in windows, doors, and vents, is essential. Taking proactive measures can protect property from potential damage and keep these clever creatures at bay.  Removing attractants is another crucial step. Ensuring that trash bins are tightly sealed and pet food is stored indoors can significantly reduce the likelihood of an encounter. Simple environmental adjustments, like clearing brush and debris near the house, can deter raccoons looking for a nesting spot.  Understanding raccoon behavior aids in prevention as well. These animals are primarily nocturnal and skilled climbers, making regular property inspections essential. Homeowners can implement various strategies based on awareness of raccoon habits to maintain their space free of unwanted visitors.  Understanding Raccoon Behavior  Raccoons are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active at night. They search for food primarily after sunset, which often leads them into urban areas.  These creatures are omnivorous, consuming a varied diet. A raccoon’s diet may include:  Fruits and nuts  Insects and small animals  Human food, especially discarded waste  Raccoons are intelligent and adaptable. They have excellent problem-solving skills, allowing them to open containers and unlock doors. This behavior can complicate efforts to keep them out of homes.  Raccoons seek shelter in places that provide safety and access to food. Common hiding spots include:  Attics  Basements  garages  To reduce the chance of a raccoon entering a home, it is essential to eliminate potential attractants. Some steps include:  Secure trash cans: Use tight lids and store them indoors when possible.  Remove pet food: Bring in pet bowls at night.  Seal entry points: Close gaps or holes in yards and homes.  By understanding these behaviors and taking preventive measures, homeowners can deter raccoons from invading their spaces.  Raccoon Proofing Your Home  Secure entry points and strengthen structures to prevent raccoons from entering the home. These steps are essential in deterring these animals from making your property their new habitat.  Securing Entry Points  Identifying and sealing potential entry points is vital in raccoon proofing. Raccoons can squeeze through openings as small as four inches, so a thorough inspection is necessary.  Key areas to check include:  Doors and Windows: Ensure they close tightly. Install weather stripping to fill gaps.  Vents and Chimneys: Use raccoon-proof caps on chimneys. Screen vents with sturdy mesh.  Foundation Cracks: Seal any cracks in the foundation with concrete. This prevents access to basements or crawl spaces.  Regularly inspecting these areas will help to maintain an effective barrier against raccoons.  Strengthening Structures  Strengthening structures around the home further reduces the chance of raccoons gaining access. Properly constructed barriers can deter these animals from attempting entry.  Important measures include:  Fencing: Install a fence at least four feet high, with the bottom buried 12 inches underground. This discourages digging.  Garbage Containers: Use raccoon-proof trash cans with secure lids. Storing garbage indoors until collection day also helps.  Decks and Sheds: Close off any space under decks or sheds with solid materials. This denies raccoons the opportunity to nest.  By taking these precautions, homeowners can significantly lessen the risk of raccoons entering their living spaces.  Effective Home Raccoon Deterrents  Homeowners can utilize various methods to discourage raccoons from invading their spaces. These approaches include chemical repellents and adopting natural deterrents that make environments less appealing to these animals.  Using Repellents  Chemical repellents are designed to create an unpleasant atmosphere for raccoons. These repellents often contain ingredients like capsaicin, which is derived from hot peppers and works by irritating raccoons’ sensitive noses.  Homeowners should apply these products around potential entry points, including doors, windows, and foundation edges. Regular reapplication is necessary, especially after rain.  Tips for using repellents effectively:  Choose a repellent that targets raccoons specifically.  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.  Monitor areas treated with repellents to assess their effectiveness.  Adopting Natural Deterrents  Natural deterrents can effectively keep raccoons at bay without harmful chemicals. Certain plants like marigolds and lavender have scents that raccoons find offensive.  Additionally, maintaining a tidy yard is essential. Keeping trash secured, removing pet food, and eliminating accessible water sources discourage raccoons.  Strategies for natural deterrents include:  Planting raccoon-repellent flora around the property.  Using motion-activated sprinklers to startle and deter raccoons.  Regularly checking and securing food sources to reduce attractants.  These methods contribute to a raccoon-free environment while promoting a healthier landscape. However, they won’t work against a raccoon that has already entered your home. If that’s the case, it’s best to hire a professional raccoon removal company.  Routine Home Maintenance for Prevention  Maintaining a home is crucial for preventing raccoons from taking up residence. Simple and regular tasks can significantly lower the chances of an unwanted encounter.  1. Seal Entry Points Inspect the exterior for gaps or holes. Common areas to check include:  Vents  Roof edges  Foundation cracks  Seal any openings with materials like caulk or hardware cloth.  2. Secure Garbage and Compost Raccoons are attracted to food sources. Use raccoon-proof bins or secure lids on garbage cans. For compost, consider:  Enclosed bins  Tightly sealed covers  3. Trim Trees and Shrubs Overhanging branches provide pathways to roofs. Regularly trim tree branches that come close to the house, reducing raccoon access.  4. Maintain the Yard Keep the lawn tidy. Remove fallen fruit, pet food, and birdseed from the ground. This eliminates food sources that attract raccoons.  5. Close Entry to Attics and Basements Check for gaps where raccoons might enter. Use strong mesh or wood to block access to attics and basements.  6. Install Motion Detector Lights Bright lights can deter raccoons. Install them around entrances to startle any intruding wildlife.  Routine home maintenance is vital to preventing raccoons. By consistently implementing these tips, homeowners can protect their living spaces and discourage unwanted visitors. However, if you want to deal with existing raccoon invasions, Critter Stop has the solution. Contact them at (214) 234-2616 for tailored solutions. They are known for high-quality work and outstanding customer service to handle wildlife and pest removal effectively.  The post Prevent Raccoons in Home: Effective Strategies for Keeping Your Space Safe  appeared first on Santa Clarita Valley Signal.