Not sure if it’s overkill, but after seeing what mice did to the foam, I’m not taking chances.
Honestly, I think you’re spot on—there’s no such thing as “overkill” when it comes to keeping critters out and airflow right. Once you’ve seen what a couple of determined mice can do, it’s hard to unsee. I’ve had folks call me after storms, thinking they’ve got a leak, but it’s actually just rodents making a mess with the insulation. That mesh trick is smart, and pre-stapling before blowing in insulation definitely saves some cursing (and probably a few bruises).
Low-pitch roofs are a pain for sure. It’s like a full-body workout every time you need to check something up there. But getting the baffles fitted well really does make a difference—not just for airflow, but for peace of mind when the weather turns nasty. I’d say your approach is solid, even if it feels like extra work in the moment. Sometimes that little bit of extra effort pays off big down the road.
I get the hesitation about “overkill,” but honestly, you’re probably saving yourself a ton of headaches down the line. I’ve seen folks skimp on that stuff and end up with chewed wires or ruined insulation. The mesh is a pain to install, but it’s worth it. Sometimes being a little paranoid pays off, especially with low-pitch roofs where you can’t just peek in easily.
The mesh is a pain to install, but it’s worth it. Sometimes being a little paranoid pays off, especially with low-pitch roofs where you can’t just peek in easily.
Couldn’t agree more about the mesh. I tried skipping it once because I figured, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Turns out, mice can squeeze through gaps I didn’t even notice. Had to pull out half the insulation and redo it after finding nests. Now I always go overboard with screening, especially on those tricky low-slope sections. It’s not just about airflow—it’s about keeping critters out too.
One thing I’d add: after installing the mesh, I run a flashlight along the eaves from inside at dusk. Any light leaks mean there’s an opening I missed. It’s tedious, but less hassle than patching things up later.
- Mesh is a hassle, but you’re right—it’s a solid investment.
- I see a lot of folks skip it, then call me after critters move in.
- Flashlight trick is smart. I usually recommend it, but honestly, most people don’t bother until they’ve had a problem.
- Only thing I’d add: check after heavy rain too. Water finds the tiniest gaps, and if light gets through, so can moisture.
- You’re saving yourself headaches down the line—worth the extra effort, even if it’s tedious.
Mesh is one of those things I kept putting off because, yeah, it’s a pain and the cost adds up if you’re covering a lot of vents. But after a squirrel chewed through my old soffit screens and set up shop in the attic, I just bit the bullet. Had to patch some insulation too, which was not cheap.
The flashlight trick is solid—wish I’d known about it before I had to deal with the mess. And you’re right about water finding its way in. After a heavy storm last fall, I found a damp spot right where I thought everything was sealed up tight. Turns out there was a tiny gap behind one of the vent covers.
It’s tedious work for sure, but honestly, fixing critter or water damage is way worse on the wallet and nerves. If you’re already up there doing airflow checks, might as well do it right the first time—even if it means an extra trip to the hardware store.