Bats in the Belfry - or Just Your Home? What You Can Do About It
All expected jokes about vampires and misconceptions about rabies aside, bats really are an important part of the Eco-system. Like bees and birds, they help with the pollination process of plants like agave that's responsible for making tequila.
Yes, bats, just like any animal or mammal, can contract rabies but the myth about being a much higher risk is just that - a myth. Simply put, bats are actually our friends, just not the kind of friends you want living in your log home.
While log homes may not be a higher risk for attracting bats, because they are often more secluded, bats may be drawn to quieter areas in not so high traffic locations. If you do end up with bats, you need to know how to handle it because this isn't your typical log home restoration task.
Keep it Safe, Humane, And Legal!
You'll want to stay current with your log home maintenance, including caulking & weather sealing. Making it more difficult for bats, or other pests, to gain access to inside your home will help prevent a problem from developing in the first place.
However, if you suspect you may already have a developing problem, here are some things you should be aware of:
- First, it's important to be aware of the laws in Georgia pertaining to bats, or wherever you may live. All 16 of the bat species found in the state of Georgia are protected by law, making it illegal to kill or potentially harm them. Since bats can be removed from attics without any issue, in most instances, there is no excuse for taking measures that could hurt the bats.
- Bats can gain access through an unsealed opening or when doors or windows are left open, for long periods of time, something that's common for log home owners. The first indication is often the sighting of bat droppings, or hearing them. Unfortunately, over time, the bat guano or urine can have negative effects on log home materials. This can damage wood, stone, metal, and even concrete.
- You'll need to hire a professional to handle the safe evacuation of the bat colony. This will bring a peaceful and safe resolution to the problem.
Once the bats are gone, that's when you can call Bear Creek Log Home Restoration. Contact us for services related to Ellijay log home restoration, and make your home as good as new again.