Are birds nesting under your eaves driving you crazy? Don't resort to harmful deterrents! Installing bird netting is a humane and effective solution to keep birds away from your home while ensuring their safety. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of installing bird netting under your eaves, step-by-step.
Why Install Bird Netting Under Eaves?
Birds building nests under eaves can lead to a variety of problems:
- Mess: Droppings, feathers, and nesting materials can accumulate, creating an unsightly and unsanitary mess.
- Damage: Nests can sometimes cause damage to your siding, gutters, and fascia boards.
- Noise: Chirping and other bird noises can be disruptive, especially at night.
- Pest infestation: Bird nests can attract insects and other pests.
Bird netting offers a humane alternative to harmful deterrents, allowing you to protect your home without harming the birds.
Materials You'll Need:
Before you begin, gather these essential materials:
- Bird netting: Choose a netting specifically designed for bird exclusion. Look for durable, high-quality netting with small enough holes to prevent birds from getting through but large enough to allow for good air circulation. Consider the size of the area you need to cover when purchasing.
- Cable ties or zip ties: These will secure the netting to your eaves. Choose heavy-duty ties to ensure a secure hold.
- Measuring tape: To accurately measure the area you need to cover.
- Scissors or utility knife: To cut the netting to size.
- Ladder (if necessary): If your eaves are high, you'll need a sturdy ladder to safely reach them.
- Work gloves: To protect your hands.
- Safety glasses: For eye protection when cutting the netting.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide:
1. Measure and Cut: Accurately measure the area under your eaves where you want to install the netting. Add extra length and width to allow for overlap and securing the netting. Cut the netting to the desired size using scissors or a utility knife.
2. Secure the Netting: Starting at one corner, begin securing the netting to your eaves using cable ties or zip ties. Ensure the netting is taut and evenly spaced to prevent sagging. Work your way around the perimeter of the area, securing the netting at regular intervals.
3. Overlap and Secure: If you have multiple pieces of netting, overlap them by at least 6 inches to create a seamless barrier. Secure the overlapping edges with additional ties.
4. Check for Gaps: Carefully inspect the entire installation to ensure there are no gaps or holes where birds could get through. If you find any, secure them with additional ties or patches of netting.
5. Inspect Regularly: Over time, the netting may become damaged or loose. Regularly inspect the netting and make repairs or adjustments as needed.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the right netting: Select netting made of durable material that can withstand weather conditions.
- Proper installation is key: Ensure the netting is securely fastened to prevent birds from entering.
- Regular maintenance: Inspect and repair the netting regularly to ensure its effectiveness.
- Consider professional help: If you're uncomfortable working at heights or with the installation process, consider hiring a professional.
By following these steps, you can effectively and humanely prevent birds from nesting under your eaves, protecting your home and the birds themselves. Remember to always prioritize safety when working at heights.
