Wildlife Exclusion and Animal Entry Repairs in Davenport and the Quad Cities

Removing a raccoon, squirrel, bat, bird, mouse or other animal from a building does not solve the entire problem if the entry point remains open. Wildlife exclusion is the process of identifying, sealing, screening and repairing the openings animals use to enter homes and businesses.

Iowa Illinois Termite & Pest Control provides professional wildlife exclusion and animal-entry repairs throughout Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, Rock Island and the surrounding Quad Cities. Our technicians inspect the building, locate accessible entry points and recommend repairs designed to help prevent wildlife from returning.

Exclusion work may include roofline repairs, soffit and fascia repairs, vent screening, chimney protection, foundation-gap sealing, crawlspace closure, utility-penetration sealing, rodent proofing and reinforcement of damaged areas.

If wildlife is still inside the building, removal or one-way exclusion must be completed before permanent openings are sealed. Visit our professional wildlife removal page to learn more about inspections, trapping and species-specific removal services.

Call 563-386-3898 in Iowa or 309-797-9823 in Illinois to request a wildlife-exclusion inspection.

What Is Wildlife Exclusion?

Wildlife exclusion is a long-term prevention service designed to keep animals from entering a structure through accessible gaps, damaged materials and construction openings.

The process begins by identifying how the animal entered. The building is then evaluated for other openings that the same species—or another species—could use in the future.

Depending on the property, exclusion may involve:

• Sealing roofline gaps
• Repairing damaged soffit and fascia
• Screening roof and attic vents
• Protecting chimney openings
• Closing siding transitions
• Sealing foundation gaps
• Repairing crawlspace vents and access doors
• Closing utility penetrations
• Reinforcing areas damaged by raccoons or squirrels
• Installing one-way wildlife devices
• Rodent proofing small openings
• Repairing animal-damaged building materials

Exclusion should be based on the species involved and the construction of the building. Bats, raccoons, squirrels, birds, mice and rats use different types of openings, so the repair plan should be designed around the actual problem.

Why Do Animals Return After Removal?

Wildlife often returns because the original entry point remains open or because other vulnerable areas were never addressed.

An animal may have entered through a damaged soffit panel, an unscreened vent, a gap around a chimney, a loose crawlspace door or an opening where two building materials meet. Once the animal is removed, that same opening may still provide shelter for another animal.

Properties can also attract wildlife because they offer food, water, nesting areas or protection from weather and predators. Common contributing conditions include:

• Open garbage containers
• Pet food stored outdoors
• Bird feeders
• Fallen fruit
• Dense vegetation near the building
• Firewood stacked against the house
• Openings beneath decks or sheds
• Damaged roof vents
• Loose soffit or fascia
• Unscreened chimneys
• Foundation and utility gaps

Removal addresses the animal currently causing the problem. Exclusion addresses the building conditions that allowed the animal to enter.

Detailed Wildlife Entry-Point Inspection

A thorough exclusion project begins with a detailed inspection of the building exterior and accessible interior areas.

The technician looks for active entry points, damaged materials, animal tracks, staining, droppings, nesting material and other evidence. The inspection also identifies secondary openings that may not currently be active but could become future entry points.

Areas commonly inspected include:

• Roof edges
• Roof returns
• Soffit
• Fascia
• Gable vents
• Roof vents
• Ridge and exhaust vents
• Chimney caps and flashing
• Siding transitions
• Dormers
• Eaves
• Attic access areas
• Foundation walls
• Crawlspace vents
• Basement penetrations
• Garage doors
• Utility lines
• Plumbing penetrations
• Decks, porches and sheds

Some wildlife openings are obvious. Others may be only a fraction of an inch wide and difficult to see from the ground.

Bats and rodents can use very small gaps. Raccoons and squirrels may enlarge weak areas by tearing, chewing or pulling at building materials. The inspection must account for both the current opening and other areas vulnerable to the same type of activity.

Roofline Wildlife Exclusion

The roofline is one of the most common areas where animals enter a home.

Squirrels, raccoons, bats and birds may access the attic through damaged soffit, fascia gaps, roof returns, vents, flashing and intersections where different roof sections meet.

Roofline exclusion may include:

• Closing gaps beneath roof edges
• Repairing damaged soffit
• Reinforcing loose fascia
• Sealing roof-return openings
• Screening vents
• Repairing gaps around dormers
• Closing openings near flashing
• Reinforcing areas damaged by raccoons or squirrels
• Installing custom-formed metal or other durable materials

Repairs should be completed with materials suited to the location and the animal involved. Expanding foam alone is generally not an appropriate long-term repair for openings that larger animals can chew, tear or push through.

Soffit and Fascia Exclusion

Soffit and fascia are especially vulnerable when materials become loose, rotted, weathered or damaged.

Raccoons can tear soffit panels or pull at weak fascia to gain access to an attic. Squirrels may chew through wood or use small gaps that already exist. Bats may enter through narrow openings where soffit, fascia and roofing materials meet.

Our exclusion services may include:

• Reattaching loose soffit
• Replacing damaged soffit sections
• Repairing rotted fascia
• Closing gaps behind fascia
• Reinforcing vulnerable roof-edge areas
• Installing formed aluminum coverings
• Sealing construction transitions
• Coordinating exclusion repairs with gutter work when necessary

Because gutters are often attached to the fascia, damage in this area may affect both drainage and wildlife access. Our experience with gutters, soffit and fascia allows us to evaluate the complete roof edge rather than treating the opening as an isolated problem.

Vent Screening

Roof vents, gable vents, bathroom vents, dryer vents and other openings allow necessary airflow but can also provide wildlife access when screens are missing or damaged.

Birds may nest inside exhaust vents. Bats may enter around loose vent edges. Squirrels and raccoons may damage lightweight screens or vent covers. Rodents may use gaps around the opening.

Vent-exclusion work may include:

• Replacing damaged vent covers
• Installing wildlife-resistant screening
• Reinforcing accessible vent openings
• Removing legally permissible nesting material
• Clearing blocked exhaust vents
• Sealing gaps around vent frames
• Installing covers designed for the vent’s intended airflow

Vent screening must not block required ventilation or create a fire or moisture hazard. Dryer and bathroom exhaust vents require materials and designs appropriate for their function.

Chimney Screening and Wildlife Protection

Unprotected chimneys can provide shelter for raccoons, birds, bats and squirrels.

Raccoons may use chimneys as den sites. Birds may build nests near the opening. Bats may enter through gaps around caps, flashing or masonry transitions.

Chimney exclusion may include:

• Installing or repairing chimney caps
• Screening accessible openings
• Closing gaps around flashing
• Repairing damaged materials near the chimney
• Removing animals or nesting debris when permitted
• Inspecting the flue and surrounding structure

The chimney should be evaluated before screening is installed. If an animal is still inside, removal must occur first.

Foundation and Basement Gap Sealing

Wildlife and rodents frequently enter at ground level through foundation cracks, damaged vents, basement penetrations and gaps where utilities enter the building.

Mice can fit through very small openings. Rats may use gaps around pipes, doors and damaged masonry. Snakes may enter through foundation openings while searching for shelter or rodents. Opossums, skunks and other animals may access larger openings beneath additions or porches.

Foundation exclusion may include:

• Sealing gaps around pipes
• Closing utility penetrations
• Repairing damaged foundation vents
• Installing rodent-resistant materials
• Closing openings around sill plates
• Repairing gaps beneath siding
• Improving garage-door seals
• Reinforcing basement access points

The materials used should be selected based on the size, location and type of opening.

Crawlspace Exclusion

Crawlspaces can provide protected nesting and denning areas for raccoons, opossums, skunks, rodents, snakes and other wildlife.

Animals may enter through loose access doors, damaged vents, foundation gaps or openings around plumbing and utilities.

Crawlspace exclusion may involve:

• Repairing or replacing access doors
• Screening crawlspace vents
• Sealing foundation openings
• Closing gaps around pipes
• Reinforcing damaged materials
• Removing animals before permanent closure
• Repairing insulation or vapor barriers when included
• Addressing odors, droppings and nesting debris

Before a crawlspace is sealed, the technician must confirm that animals are no longer inside.

Utility-Gap and Penetration Sealing

Electrical lines, plumbing pipes, air-conditioning lines, cable penetrations and other utilities often pass through exterior walls or foundations.

Gaps around these penetrations can provide entry points for mice, rats, insects, bats and small snakes.

Utility-gap sealing may include:

• Closing gaps around electrical service lines
• Sealing plumbing penetrations
• Repairing openings around air-conditioning lines
• Closing cable and communication penetrations
• Reinforcing larger gaps with durable materials
• Sealing openings around exterior faucets
• Addressing penetrations in garages and basements

Because some utilities generate heat, require movement or must remain serviceable, the correct material and repair method should be chosen for each location.

Bat Exclusion

Bat exclusion requires careful inspection, proper timing and closure of both primary and secondary entry points.

Bats may enter through narrow openings around soffit, fascia, siding, vents, roof edges, chimneys and flashing. The primary opening may be difficult to distinguish from other nearby gaps.

A bat-exclusion project may include:

• Exterior inspection
• Identification of active bat openings
• Sealing secondary openings
• Installing one-way bat-exclusion devices
• Monitoring bat activity
• Removing devices after bats have left
• Permanently closing the primary openings
• Recommending guano cleanup or insulation work

Bat exclusion cannot always be completed immediately. Seasonal restrictions may apply when dependent young are unable to fly.

A bat found inside the living space may also require separate health guidance. When direct contact may have occurred, contact the appropriate medical or public-health professional.

Raccoon Exclusion

Raccoons are strong animals capable of tearing vents, pulling down soffit and enlarging weak roofline openings.

Raccoon exclusion may include:

• Repairing torn soffit
• Reinforcing roof vents
• Repairing fascia
• Screening chimneys
• Closing deck or porch access
• Reinforcing den openings
• Repairing damaged roofing transitions
• Installing durable barriers after removal

The technician should determine whether young raccoons are present before sealing the entry area. Removing or excluding the adult without addressing dependent young can create additional damage and welfare concerns.

Squirrel Exclusion

Squirrels frequently enter through roof returns, soffit gaps, fascia openings and vents.

They may chew wood, siding, screening and other materials to enlarge an opening.

Squirrel exclusion may involve:

• Installing one-way devices
• Sealing secondary roofline gaps
• Repairing chewed openings
• Reinforcing vent covers
• Closing fascia and soffit gaps
• Repairing entry points after the squirrels have left
• Recommending tree trimming or habitat changes when appropriate

Tree branches that provide direct roof access may contribute to repeated activity, although squirrels can still reach many roofs without overhanging branches.

Rodent Exclusion

Mouse and rat control is more effective when population reduction is combined with exclusion.

Rodents may enter through foundation gaps, rooflines, garage doors, siding transitions, utility penetrations and damaged vents.

Rodent-exclusion work may include:

• Sealing small foundation gaps
• Installing rodent-resistant mesh
• Closing utility penetrations
• Repairing garage-door gaps
• Sealing openings around siding
• Screening vents
• Closing gaps near rooflines
• Recommending sanitation and storage changes

Rodent exclusion often requires detailed work because mice can enter through extremely small openings. The goal is to close practical access points while maintaining necessary ventilation and drainage.

Bird Exclusion

Birds may nest inside dryer vents, bathroom vents, soffit openings, chimneys, signs and commercial-building ledges.

Bird exclusion may include:

• Vent screening
• Chimney protection
• Closing soffit openings
• Installing appropriate deterrents
• Removing legally permissible nesting material
• Cleaning accessible debris
• Repairing damaged vent covers

Many native bird species, nests and eggs are protected. Work must be scheduled and performed in accordance with applicable regulations.

Wildlife-Damage Repairs

Wildlife may take advantage of an existing opening, but animals can also create significant damage while entering or nesting.

Raccoons may tear soffit and vents. Squirrels may chew wood and wiring. Birds may block exhaust vents. Rodents may damage insulation and utility openings. Bats may leave staining and guano near roosting areas.

Our wildlife-damage repair services may include:

• Soffit repair
• Fascia repair
• Vent replacement
• Chimney screening
• Roofline-gap repair
• Foundation-gap closure
• Crawlspace repair
• Siding-transition repair
• Custom metalwork
• Insulation removal
• Insulation replacement or capping
• Deodorizing
• Nesting-debris removal

The scope of repair depends on the affected area and whether the building materials remain structurally sound.

Attic Cleanup After Wildlife Activity

Wildlife may leave droppings, urine, nesting material, food debris, carcasses and damaged insulation inside an attic.

Even after the animals are gone, contamination can create odors, attract insects and reduce the effectiveness of the insulation.

Attic cleanup may include:

• Removal of nesting debris
• Removal of accessible droppings
• Insulation removal
• Deodorizing
• Surface treatment when appropriate
• Pest treatment related to fleas or other parasites
• Replacement or capping of insulation
• Air sealing before new insulation is installed

The amount of cleanup required depends on the animal species, duration of activity and extent of contamination.

Insulation Removal and Replacement

Animals can compress, tunnel through, relocate or contaminate attic insulation.

Removal may be recommended when insulation contains significant wildlife waste, water damage, heavy debris or nesting material. Removing the old material can also provide better access for entry-point repairs and air sealing.

If existing insulation remains dry and suitable, new insulation may sometimes be installed over it after the wildlife problem and accessible air leaks have been addressed.

Our insulation and weatherization experience allows us to evaluate the attic as part of the complete wildlife-restoration project.

Why Choose Iowa Illinois Termite & Pest Control for Exclusion?

Serving the Quad Cities Since 1976

Iowa Illinois Termite & Pest Control is a family-owned and operated company that has served eastern Iowa and western Illinois since 1976.

Our long history gives homeowners access to an established local company experienced in wildlife, pest control, insulation, weatherization and exterior repairs.

Removal and Exclusion Through One Company

A wildlife problem often requires more than one visit and more than one type of work.

Our team can provide animal removal, one-way exclusion, entry-point repairs, attic cleanup, insulation work and related pest-control services when included in the approved scope.

Building-Envelope Experience

Wildlife enters through weaknesses in the building envelope. Our experience with soffit, fascia, gutters, insulation and air sealing helps us recognize how exterior materials and hidden cavities connect.

This allows us to evaluate the complete entry path rather than repairing only the most visible hole.

Species-Specific Recommendations

A bat opening should not be treated like a raccoon opening. A mouse gap requires different materials and detailing than a squirrel-damaged roof vent.

Our recommendations are based on the species, construction, opening size, season and condition of the property.

Written Scope of Work

We provide written recommendations describing the exclusion, repair, cleanup and insulation work included in the project.

This allows homeowners to understand which openings will be addressed and what services are included before work begins.

Written Wildlife-Exclusion Guarantee

Qualifying wildlife-exclusion services are backed by a written guarantee.

The coverage period and conditions depend on the species, areas treated, repairs completed and terms of the service agreement. The specific guarantee will be described in the written proposal.

Guarantees typically apply only to the openings and repairs included in the project. New damage, unrelated openings, structural changes and areas declined by the customer may not be covered.

Our Wildlife-Exclusion Process

Step 1: Wildlife Inspection

We inspect the exterior and accessible interior areas to identify active entry points, wildlife damage and additional vulnerable openings.

Step 2: Animal Identification

We determine which species is involved and whether animals or dependent young may still be inside.

Step 3: Removal or One-Way Exclusion

If wildlife is still present, professional wildlife removal, trapping or one-way exclusion is completed before permanent closure.

Step 4: Written Exclusion Plan

You receive a written description of the proposed sealing, screening and repair work.

Step 5: Secondary Opening Closure

Accessible secondary openings included in the project are sealed or screened so wildlife cannot easily move to another entry point.

Step 6: Primary Entry-Point Repair

After the animals are confirmed out, the main entry areas are permanently closed, reinforced or repaired.

Step 7: Cleanup and Restoration

Approved attic cleanup, insulation removal, deodorizing or restoration work is completed.

Step 8: Final Inspection

The work is reviewed, and applicable guarantee information is provided.

Wildlife-Exclusion Service Area

Iowa Illinois Termite & Pest Control provides wildlife exclusion and animal-entry repairs throughout Davenport, Bettendorf and the Quad Cities.

Primary service areas include Davenport, Bettendorf, LeClaire, Eldridge, DeWitt, Clinton and Muscatine in Iowa, along with Moline, East Moline, Rock Island, Milan, Silvis, Coal Valley and Geneseo in Illinois.

Projects outside the immediate Quad Cities may be considered depending on the property location, project size, wildlife species and technician availability.

Call our office to confirm whether your property is within our current service area.

Wildlife-Exclusion Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between wildlife removal and wildlife exclusion?

Wildlife removal addresses the animal currently inside or around the property. Exclusion addresses the openings and building conditions that allowed the animal to enter.

Many wildlife problems require both services.

Can you seal the opening while the animal is still inside?

No. Permanent closure should not be completed until the animal and any dependent young have been removed or can safely leave through a one-way device.

Sealing an occupied opening can trap wildlife inside the building.

How do you find where animals are entering?

We inspect the roofline, soffit, fascia, vents, chimney, siding, foundation, crawlspace and utility penetrations for damage, staining, tracks, droppings and construction gaps.

How small of an opening can a bat or mouse use?

Both bats and mice can enter through very small gaps. The exact opening size depends on the species and building conditions, which is why a detailed inspection is important.

Do you repair soffit and fascia damage?

Yes. We provide many types of soffit and fascia repair associated with wildlife entry, depending on the condition and accessibility of the area.

Can you screen roof vents and chimneys?

Yes. We install or repair screening and protective covers where appropriate, while maintaining necessary ventilation and function.

Do you seal foundation and utility gaps?

Yes. Foundation openings, crawlspace gaps and utility penetrations can be sealed or reinforced using materials appropriate for the location and species involved.

Do you provide bat exclusion?

Yes. Bat exclusion may include sealing secondary openings, installing one-way devices and permanently closing the primary openings after the bats have left.

Timing may be affected by seasonal restrictions.

Do you provide rodent exclusion?

Yes. Rodent exclusion may include sealing small gaps, screening vents, addressing utility penetrations and improving garage, foundation and roofline closures.

Do you clean and replace attic insulation?

Yes. We can evaluate wildlife-contaminated insulation and recommend removal, cleanup, replacement or capping based on its condition.

Is wildlife exclusion guaranteed?

Qualifying services include a written guarantee. The exact coverage, conditions and duration are provided in the proposal or service agreement.

Will exclusion keep every animal away from my property?

Exclusion is designed to reduce access to the building. It does not prevent wildlife from entering the yard or approaching the property.

New storm damage, deterioration, remodeling or animal damage to untreated areas can create new openings.

Request a Wildlife-Exclusion Inspection

Removing the animal is only part of solving a wildlife problem. Unsealed vents, damaged soffit, fascia gaps, foundation openings and utility penetrations can allow animals to return.

Iowa Illinois Termite & Pest Control provides professional wildlife exclusion, animal-entry repairs, vent screening, chimney protection, rodent proofing, attic cleanup and insulation services throughout Davenport, Bettendorf, Moline, Rock Island and the Quad Cities.

If an animal is still inside the building, begin with our professional wildlife removal services. Once the animal is out, we can develop a plan to close accessible entry points and repair the damage.

Call 563-386-3898 in Iowa or 309-797-9823 in Illinois, email support@iailtermite.biz, or submit an online exclusion-inspection request.