Have you ever seen a cute, furry chipmunk scurrying around your yard and thought nothing of it? Unfortunately, these seemingly harmless creatures can cause serious damage to your foundation if they start to burrow in the wrong place.
In this article, we will look into chipmunks and the damage they can cause, how much it may cost to repair, and tips on how to prevent them from digging in the first place.
We will also explore fencing and repellent solutions, as well as professional extermination services.
Read on to find out if chipmunks can ruin your foundation!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Chipmunks can cause some damage to the foundation of a home if they burrow around the foundation’s perimeter.
They can create small holes that can weaken the foundation and potentially lead to water seeping in, which can cause further damage.
In addition, chipmunks can also chew on electrical wiring and insulation, which could lead to a fire hazard.
Homeowners should be sure to keep chipmunks away from their foundation to avoid potential damage.
What are Chipmunks?
Chipmunks are small, burrowing rodents that can be found throughout most of North America.
They have distinctive black and white stripes on their fur and they have bright, black eyes.
Chipmunks are typically between 6 and 8 inches in length, with tails that are about half the length of their body.
They have short, stocky legs and are agile climbers.
Chipmunks are omnivorous creatures, meaning they eat both plants and animals.
In their natural habitat, chipmunks feed on insects, seeds, nuts, berries, and flowers.
They also store food for the winter months, burying it in underground tunnels.
Chipmunks are active during the day, and they often live in large family units.
They communicate with each other through a series of chirps, clicks, and whistles.
Chipmunks are also known to be quite playful, and they have even been known to use sticks and stones as toys.
The Damage Chipmunks Can Cause
Chipmunks are cute, but they can cause serious damage to your home’s foundation if they burrow too close.
The tunnels they create can weaken the soil around the foundation, causing it to shift and potentially leading to costly repairs.
If they dig too close to the foundation, they can also damage the exterior of the home, which can lead to water and pest intrusions.
Chipmunk burrowing can also cause erosion, which can further damage the foundation and the integrity of the home’s structure.
In extreme cases, chipmunks can cause a home to become structurally unsound, which can be a major safety hazard.
In addition to the structural damage, chipmunks can also cause damage to landscaping and gardens.
They can eat plants and dig in gardens, leaving behind unsightly holes and damage to plants.
The Potential Cost of Repairs
When it comes to protecting your home from chipmunk damage, the potential cost of repairs is a major concern.
The extent of the repairs, and thus the cost, will depend on the extent of the damage that has been done.
If a chipmunk has only been burrowing around the foundation of your home, the repair bill may only include fixing the weakened soil and the damage to the exterior of the home.
However, if the damage has been more extensive, the repair bill could be much higher.
If the chipmunk has been able to get inside the home, the damage may include costly repairs to the interior of the home, such as replacing drywall, insulation, and other structural elements.
In some cases, the cost of these repairs can be very expensive, so it is best to take preventive measures to discourage chipmunks from getting too close to your home.
Preventing Chipmunks from Digging
When it comes to protecting your foundation from the destructive burrowing of chipmunks, prevention is key.
Taking steps to discourage chipmunks from taking up residence near your homes foundation can save you from costly repairs and damage in the future.
The most effective way to prevent chipmunks from digging around your foundation is to erect a fence around the perimeter of your home.
This should be done at least two feet away from the foundation to discourage chipmunks from venturing too close.
You may also want to consider using a mesh fence to prevent chipmunks from burrowing underneath.
In addition to fencing, there are also several repellents on the market that can help discourage chipmunks from digging around the foundation of your home.
These can include natural products like garlic, ammonia, and citrus peels, as well as commercial repellents containing ingredients like peppermint oil and cayenne pepper.
Repellents should be used in combination with fencing to ensure that chipmunks are kept away from your homes foundation.
Finally, its important to inspect the area around your homes foundation for any signs of chipmunk activity.
If you notice any burrows or evidence of chipmunks, you should take steps to deter them from returning.
This can include patching over any holes or filling in any burrows with soil.
By taking the necessary steps to prevent chipmunks from digging around your foundation, you can help ensure that your home remains safe and secure from potential damage.
From erecting a fence to using repellents, these preventive measures can help you keep chipmunks away from your homes foundation and save you from costly repairs in the future.
Fencing Solutions
Fencing is a great way to protect your homes foundation from chipmunks and other burrowing rodents.
It is important to ensure that the fence is installed properly and securely to ensure that chipmunks cannot burrow underneath it.
A metal fence is ideal as it is strong and durable and will not be easily damaged by the chipmunks digging.
It is best to bury the fence at least 12 inches deep to discourage the chipmunks from digging around it.
You may also want to consider adding a layer of chicken wire to the bottom of the fence to further prevent burrowing.
Additionally, you can add a layer of gravel around the fence to make it difficult for chipmunks to dig.
Finally, it is important to inspect the fence periodically to ensure that it is not being damaged by the chipmunks.
Repellent Solutions
When it comes to repelling chipmunks, there are several solutions that may be effective.
One option is to install fencing around the foundation of your home to create a physical barrier between the chipmunks and the foundation.
Fencing should be buried at least six inches underground and should be constructed from strong, durable material.
You may also want to consider using repellent sprays or granules to discourage chipmunks from entering the area around your home.
Repellents can be made from natural materials, such as garlic, onion, and hot pepper, or from synthetic materials.
Repellents should be applied around the perimeter of the home and reapplied every two to three weeks for maximum effectiveness.
You can also use ultrasonic devices to repel chipmunks, although these are not always effective.
Professional Extermination Services
When it comes to preventing chipmunks from damaging your homes foundation, an experienced professional extermination service can be a great option.
Professional exterminators are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to effectively manage chipmunk infestations and protect your foundation.
They use special repellents to discourage chipmunks from entering your property, and can also use traps and poisons to remove the chipmunks from your home.
Professional exterminators can also inspect your home and surrounding areas to ensure that all potential chipmunk entry points have been sealed and that the foundation is stable and secure.
Additionally, professional exterminators can provide you with advice and guidance on how to maintain your homes foundation and prevent future chipmunk infestations.
Final Thoughts
Chipmunks can be a major nuisance if they burrow too close to your home’s foundation.
This can lead to damage, weakened soil, and potentially costly repairs.
It is important to take preventive measures, such as using fencing or repellents to discourage chipmunks from burrowing.
If you suspect chipmunks around your homes foundation, it is best to consult a professional to ensure that you are taking the proper steps to protect your home.
With the right precautions, you can prevent chipmunks from ruining your foundation.