Repair costs can be unexpectedly high, making it challenging to find the necessary funds to fix the issue.
To help prevent costly repairs, garden shed expert Sam Jenkinson from garden building retailer Tiger has shared tips on protecting your property from damaging pests.
How to Safeguard Your Property from Pests and Avoid Expensive Repairs
Wood-boring beetles
Wood-boring beetles lay eggs in wooden beams, walls, and other structural elements, causing up to £2,000 in damage. Their larvae feed on wood, weakening structures over time.
Prevent infestations by sealing wood with varnish, using non-toxic insecticides, and inspecting for sawdust or small holes.
Rats
Rats can cause up to £1,500 in damage by chewing through wood, plastic, and electrical wiring, posing fire hazards and structural issues.
To deter rats, block entry points, secure food sources, and trim vegetation near structures to eliminate hiding spots.
Badgers
Badgers can cause around £1,000 in damage by digging under garden buildings, potentially destabilizing foundations.
Prevent damage by installing sturdy fencing, securing food sources, and using motion-activated deterrents and strong-smelling plants.
Pigeons
Pigeons can cause up to £1,000 in damage through their droppings, which can corrode metal, wood, and roofing materials.
Use reflective deterrents or bird netting to protect your garden building roof and keep it clean to reduce nesting opportunities.
Squirrels
Squirrels can cause £1,000 in damage by gnawing on wood, plastic, and electrical wires, weakening structures and posing fire hazards.
Prevent squirrel entry by sealing entry points with wire mesh and removing food sources like bird feeders.
Moles
Moles can cause up to £800 in damage by digging tunnels that undermine foundations and cause sinking ground.
Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees can cause around £500 in damage by boring holes into wood, weakening beams and posts.
Prevent damage by painting or varnishing exposed wood and sealing holes with caulk or steel wool.
Foxes
Foxes can cause up to £600 in damage by digging under garden structures and gnawing on doors and foundations.
Deter foxes by blocking entry points, securing food sources, and using motion-activated lights or water and vinegar spray.
Tiger estimated the cost of pest damage in UK gardens based on data from pest control companies, repair services, government guidelines, and homeowner reports. The potential damage of each pest was evaluated considering factors like infestation severity and structure type affected. The final estimates include both immediate treatment expenses and long-term repair needs.