Have you noticed small holes appearing in your siding? Do you keep hearing a persistent tapping on your exterior walls? If so, woodpeckers may be causing damage to your home.
In Calgary, in areas from Signal Hill to Mahogany and everywhere in between, woodpeckers—especially the Northern Flicker—can be a real problem for homeowners. They peck at siding to build nests, search for food, or mark their territory. This damage can lead to moisture issues, mold growth, and costly repairs if left unchecked.
Understanding why woodpeckers target certain homes and how to protect your siding is key to preventing future damage. Let’s explore the best ways to keep your home safe.
Why Are Woodpeckers Damaging Your Home?
Woodpeckers peck for three main reasons:
- Nesting – They drill holes to create a place to live and raise their young.
- Foraging – They search for insects beneath the surface of the siding.
- Drumming – They tap against hard surfaces to establish territory and attract mates.
Unfortunately, homes with wood siding, cedar shakes, or EIFS stucco are especially vulnerable to these destructive behaviors. Over time, repeated pecking can lead to water infiltration, mold growth, and structural damage.
The Best Solution: Woodpecker-Resistant Siding
One of the most effective ways to prevent woodpecker damage is to upgrade to a durable, impact-resistant siding material. James Hardie fiber cement siding is one of the best options to prevent woodpecker damage to Calgary homes. Made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers, this siding is tough enough to withstand even the most determined woodpecker.
Other Benefits of James Hardie Siding Include:
- Exceptional Durability – Resistant to weather, pests, and fire.
- Minimal Maintenance – Unlike wood, it won’t rot, warp, or need frequent repainting.
- Energy Efficiency – Helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs.
- Aesthetic Appeal – Available in a variety of colors and styles to match your home’s design.
How to Prevent Woodpecker Damage with Proper Installation of Woodpecker Proof Siding
Choosing a woodpecker-resistant siding is only part of the solution. Proper installation is crucial to ensuring maximum protection. A professional siding contractor in Calgary like Alfa Roofing & Siding will:
- Assess your home’s exterior for existing damage.
- Recommend the best siding options for your specific needs.
- Ensure seamless woodpecker siding installation for long-term durability.
- Seal gaps and apply protective finishes to further discourage woodpeckers.
Additional Methods to Deter Woodpeckers
If replacing your siding isn’t an immediate option, consider these alternative deterrent methods:
- Reflective Objects – Hanging shiny tape, aluminium foil, or reflective strips can scare woodpeckers away.
- Bird Netting – Installing mesh netting over the affected areas can prevent woodpeckers from accessing your siding.
- Decoys and Sounds – Fake predator birds or recorded distress calls may help discourage woodpeckers from approaching.
- Woodpecker Feeders – Providing an alternative food source, like suet feeders, can distract woodpeckers from targeting your home.
While these methods can provide temporary relief, upgrading to a woodpecker-resistant siding remains the most reliable, long-term solution.
Woodpecker Siding Repair: How to Fix Woodpecker Holes in Siding
If your siding has already sustained woodpecker damage, it’s important to act quickly. Follow these steps to repair the damage:
- Assess the Extent – Identify the size and number of holes to determine the severity.
- Clean the Area – Remove any loose debris around the damaged area.
- Apply Filler – Use a wood filler or patching compound to seal small holes.
- Sand and Paint – Once dried, sand the filler smooth and repaint the area to match the surrounding siding.
For larger holes or extensive damage, it’s best to contact a professional contractor for effective siding repairs and ensure your home remains structurally sound.
Protect Your Home from Woodpecker Siding Damage with Impact-Resistant Siding
At Alfa Roofing & Siding, we specialize in high-quality siding installations that keep Calgary homes safe from damage. If you’ve been dealing with woodpecker issues, need to know the best siding to prevent woodpeckers, or want to upgrade to a more durable exterior, our team is here to help.
Contact us today for a free quote!
