Why Modern Building Materials Are More Vulnerable to Animal Damage Than You Think

With advances in construction technology, it’s easy to assume modern buildings are better protected against animal damage than ever before. After all, today’s materials are engineered to be durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting. However, despite these innovations, animals haven’t stopped looking for shelter, warmth, and safety. In fact, many modern building materials unintentionally provide everything rodents and other pests need to nest, hide, and survive.

As a result, certain modern building materials are actually more vulnerable to animal damage than homeowners might expect. The most commonly targeted materials include:

PVC and Plastic-Based Wiring Insulation

Many rodents and pests have a natural instinct to gnaw, and PVC or plastic wiring insulation offers little resistance. These materials are soft enough for animals to chew through, allowing them to access warm interior spaces. In some cases, pests will even strip away pieces of insulation to use as nesting material or build nests directly inside pipes and wall cavities.

Engineered Wood Products

While engineered wood products are designed for efficiency and strength, they can become vulnerable when exposed to excess moisture. Moisture accelerates deterioration, making these materials easier for pests to penetrate and remove for nesting. Combined with nearby insulation that retains heat, these areas often become ideal nesting environments for rodents and other animals.

Vinyl Siding and Trim

Vinyl siding and trim are common targets for pests largely because they offer convenient points of entry. Small gaps, seams, and loose edges make it easy for animals to pull back panels or chew their way inside. Once compromised, vinyl provides quick access to the warmer, protected spaces behind a home’s exterior.

Composite Roofing Material

Composite roofing materials can also present opportunities for animal intrusion, especially around vulnerable areas such as edges, vents, and flashing. These access points are easier for rodents and pests to exploit, allowing them to break apart materials and enter attic spaces where shelter and nesting materials are readily available.

Low-Voltage Wiring

Low-voltage wiring is especially attractive to pests due to its plastic and rubber coatings. These softer materials are easy to chew and tear apart using teeth and claws. As a result, pests may damage wiring to gather nesting materials or create pathways through walls and ceilings.

Minimize Pest Damage With Critter Guard

The most effective way to protect modern building materials from animal damage is to prevent pests from gaining access to your property in the first place. At Critter Guard, our wildlife control solutions are designed to help you set up a perimeter around your property and prohibit pests from accessing your home or building. To learn more about our wildlife control products and how they can help protect modern building materials, contact us today.