Eaves of a Building Need Bird Spikes
Eaves are the portion of the roof that hangs over the building. The purpose of an eave is to protect the sides of the structure by preventing debris from sliding off the roof and attaching to exterior walls. Eaves come in various architectural styles. Most are built with a straightforward, simple design, while others can be quite ornate. Boxed-in eaves hide the rafters and attach to the building at the same angle as the roof. Soffited eaves feature a soffit board that covers and connects the rafters to the overhang in a perpendicular fashion relative to the building's side. Abbreviated eaves cut off at an almost 90-degree angle to the structure.
Protecting Vulnerable Eaves from Pest Birds
What all eaves have in common, whether plain or ornate, is pest bird susceptibility. Unprotected eaves leave the underside of the roof exposed, creating the perfect spot for pest birds to hide from predators, nest, and raise their young. It does not matter if the location is a government building, a mansion, an apartment complex, a residential home, or a historic building; the way to keep birds away is to implement an effective bird control strategy such as bird spikes.
It is imperative to stop roosting and nesting behavior to protect the eave area and everything below it. Bird droppings and debris are not only structurally damaging but also hazardous to humans. Accumulations are an eyesore, creating a poor first impression when bird feces are visible on walkways and building exteriors. Droppings are highly acidic and will damage stucco, wood, aluminum, paint, cement, and metal over time. Furthermore, droppings carry over 60 known transmittable diseases, as well as insects, mites, and bedbugs.
Effective Bird Control Options for Eaves
To eliminate pest birds, implementing a bird control strategy is essential. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or facilities manager, multiple options are available to secure eaves, including bird spikes, electric shock tracks, bird slopes, and bird netting.
Bird Spikes
Bird spikes are one of the best options for protecting building eaves. Available in both plastic and stainless steel, plastic bird spikes offer a variety of colors to match building aesthetics—including tan, white, black, brown, grey, brick red, and crystal clear. They are easily glued or screwed down onto any surface. Plastic bird spikes are non-conductive, meaning they will not interfere with electrical or communication transmissions. UV-protected and weather-proof, plastic spikes match the durability of stainless steel at a fraction of the cost. They work by creating an uneven surface that birds find uncomfortable, forcing them to move elsewhere. Bird spikes do not harm birds at all, and their blunt tips ensure safe handling for installers.
Bird control does not need to be difficult. Most professional exclusion products are as easy to install as bird spikes while remaining highly cost-effective.