Hardware cloth is definitely a solid choice, especially if you're dealing with persistent critters. Another thing I've found helpful is to combine it with metal flashing—install the flashing first, then layer the hardware cloth over it. Make sure you secure everything with screws and washers rather than staples, since raccoons can pry staples loose pretty easily. Learned that one the hard way after a storm loosened things up and gave them an opening...
Good call on screws and washers—staples are basically raccoon toys, haha. I've also had decent luck with metal flashing, but honestly, determined critters can surprise you. Last summer, squirrels managed to chew through some flashing I installed near the attic vent. Ended up doubling up with hardware cloth over the flashing, and it's held strong since. Sometimes it feels like a never-ending battle...
"determined critters can surprise you."
Haha, ain't that the truth. I swear squirrels around my place must have titanium teeth or something. Last year, I thought I'd outsmarted them by adding aluminum flashing around the chimney area—figured it was slick enough to keep them off. Nope. Within a week, they'd chewed right through and set up a cozy little squirrel Airbnb in my attic. Ended up doing exactly what you did—hardware cloth layered over the flashing—and it's been holding solid ever since.
Honestly, at this point, I think it's less about winning and more about just staying one step ahead. But hey, at least we're keeping the hardware stores in business, right?
"Honestly, at this point, I think it's less about winning and more about just staying one step ahead."
Haha, true enough...but isn't it worth considering a different approach altogether? Instead of constantly reinforcing barriers, maybe we should look at why these critters are so determined to get in. Could be they're attracted to warmth or nesting materials. I've seen some green roofing setups that naturally deter wildlife without turning your attic into Fort Knox. Might be worth exploring, no?
Green roofs can be great, but speaking from experience, they're not always a quick fix. You might wanna first check if there's moisture or insulation issues up there—critters love cozy spots. Fixing those first usually makes your attic way less inviting...worked wonders for me anyway.
