Last Updated on: 20th June 2023, 06:12 am
Last Updated on by Viliam
Hey there, dear everyone! It’s time to dive into world of feathered friends and roofing once again. You know, the other day I was looking up at my own asphalt shingle roof, admiring how clean it was since we learned how to tackle bird droppings. And then it hit me, like a bird aiming for newly washed car.
What if we could prevent those tiny presents from sky in the first place? So, today, ladies and gentlemen, we’re taking a step forward, a leap, if you will, into the realm of installing bird spikes on asphalt shingles. You might be thinking, ” Wait, bird spikes? On my beauitful roof?” But stick with me, because this could be the solution you’ve been searching for.
Why Bird Spikes on Asphalt Shingles?
Benefits and Drawbacks
So, dear friends, why should we install bird spikes on our asphalt shingles? Well, the pros are pretty compelling. First, spikes deter pest birds from turning your dear roof into their preferred resitng spot. No more bird droppings messing up your nice clean roof, right? Plus, they’re pretty easy to install.
But, of course, there are some cons as well. For instance, larger birds could potentially still nest between the spikes, and they could detract from the aeshtetic appeal of your home. But let’s weigh that against cleaning bird droppings every other day. It’s all about choosing your battles, isn’t it?
What Birds are We Talking About?
Know Your Bird Species
Before installing any bird deterrents, you gotta know your enemy, right? And by enemy, I mean our little feathered friends. See, different bird species can require various deterrents. Some birds might not be deterred by spikes and might need other methods. A great watch type of birds regularly frequenting your roof will guide you better in this mission. Consdier the size of the bird, their nesting materials and habits. Armed with this info, you’ll be ready for the next step.
Choosing the Right Bird Deterrent
Types of Bird Deterrents, Pros and Cons
Bird spikes are great deterrents. But they’re not the only ones out there. Reflective devices, light fixtures, plus even cretein types of paint can keep the birds at bay. But today, we’re focusing on spikes.
There are different types of spikes – stainless steel spikes, plastic ones. Spikes come in various lengths too, depending on size of the bird you’re dealing with. Also, yes, they’re quite effective, especially when you’re dealing with flat or slightly curved surfaces like asphlat shingles. The downside? Well, they may not be most attractive thing to put on your roof. But hey, function over form, right?
Gathering Your Materials
Tools You’ll Need
Ready to take on bird world? Let’s gather our tools first. You’ll need the bird spikes of course, and some oudtoor construction adhesive to be sure those spikes stick to the roof surfaces. Don’t forget your gloves and safety glasses, safety first! Lastly, get sturdy ladder. After all, we’re not birds, so we’ll need a lift.
Shopping for Bird Spikes
Looking at the market, you’ll find different types of bird spikes available. Some come with pre-drilled holes, while others are designed with glue troughs for easy application of the adhesive. Check the length of spikes, as you’d need longer ones for larger birds. Stainlses steel spikes are a good choice for their durability.
Preparation Steps
Getting Ready for Installation
Alright, dears, before you climb up that ladder, take moment to prepare the roof surfaces. Start with a great clean; reemmber our talk about using an ammonia solution to clean bird droppings? That’s your starting point. After cleaning, check for any damaged shingles and replace them if needed. You want clean and even surface for those spikes.
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Before cutting your spike strips to size, measure your dear roof. You need to cover all attractive landing spots for our feathery friends, mainly along the ridges and around light fixtures. Once you have your measurements, cut the strips to size.
The Right Way to Install Bird Spikes
Step by Step Installation Guide
Okay, dears, now comes the fun part – installing the spikes. Brace yourselves; it’s not rocket science, but its does need some finesse.
Start by applying thick line of outdoor construction adhesive along base of each spike strip. This adhesive is your best buddy for this project. It’s going to hold eevrything together, creating a bond stronger than any bird’s determination to perch on your dear roof.
Next up, press the strip firmly onto the roof. Be sure to position it so that the spikes cover the entire breadth of the bird’s potential ladning spot. Make no mistake, these birds are smarter than you think. Give them an inch. And they’ll take a mile, or at least, a comfortable perch.
It might feel bit like laying down an unwelcome mat. Only, you know, it’s a lot pointier and less inviting. But remember, we’re not out to harm our feahtery friends; we’re just kindly suggesting teyh take their business elsewhere.
Now, it’s a waiting game. Give the adhesive enough time to dry. I know you’re eager to see if its works. But patience, dear friends, patience. It’s going to be worth it.
Pro Tips for Installation
Do you remember those pre-drilled holes I mentioned earlier? Well, if you’ re wroking with such spike strips, here’s a tip. You could add some extra security with wood screws. But tread lightly here. You don’t want to damage your shingles in the process.
Also, keep in mind that surface of your roof might be uneven. Adapt and adjust the poistion of the spikes to cover any nooks and crannies. These birds are opportunists, and they won’ t shy away from a cozy corner to nest.
And one more thing. This is not a race. Rome wasn’t built in day, plus neithre will your dear bird-free roof. So take your time and ensure each strip is well secured. A job well done is better than a job quickly done, wouldn’t you agree?
In case you’re dealing with curved surfaces, like light fixtures or chimney caps, don’t fret. You can cut the spike strips into smaller pieces to cover such areas.
Taking Extra Security Measures
Ensuring Your Spikes Stay Put
Now, let’s be clear, installing the spikes is just half battle, dear friends. We want these guys to stay put for long haul. How do we do that, you ask? Well, outdoor construction adehsive is our front-line soldier. This hard guy usually gets job done, creating strong bond between the spike strip and your roof.
But sometimes, we need to call in the cavalry. That’s where wood screws come in. If you’re working with spike strips that have pre-drilled holes, you could add some extra security with wood screws. But proceed with caution. We want spikes to stay put, but we don’t want to damage our shinlges while doing so. Be gentle, and treat your roof with care. It’s been good to us, hasn’t it?
Keep Birds in Dark
Good job on getting those spikes up, everyone. But our work doesn’t end here. Now, we enter observation phase. Yes, that’s right. We need to keep an eye on those birds. Are teyh still trying to land on our roof, completely disregarding our pointy unwelcoem mat? If yes, it’s time to pull out some additional tricks from our bag.
Reflective devices can work wonders as bird deterrents. They confuse and deter birds, without causing them any harm. Wind chimes or other noise makers can also aid. Birds prefer quiet places to nest. And also a tiny noise could persudae them to find brand new spot.
Always remember, we’ re not out to harm our feathery friends. All we’re doing is discouraging them from treating our roofs like their persnoal bathrooms.
Maintaining Your Bird Deterrent System
Regular Check-ups
Like everything else in your home, bird spikes need some care too. Regular checks are paramount, dears. Ensure they’re still firmly in place, standign tall and proud. Look out for any damage or loose spikes and replace them as needed. Regular upkeep is key. After all, what’s the point of all this if your bird spikes take vacation, right?
When Spikes Don’t Work
Hey, let’s be real. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, some birds just won’t get message. If the spikes aren’t doing their job, don’t lose heart. There are other bird rpeellents available. Bird netting or electronic devices may do the trick. Remember, the goal is to keep your roof clean, not to wage war on our feathery friends.
In Conclusion
So there you have it, folks. Installing bird spikes on your asphalt shingles is not as daunting as its might seem. With a little patience and some elbow grease, you’ll have a bird-free roof in no time. But remember, we’re not out to harm these beautiful creatures; we’re just settnig some boundaries. After all, everyone needs their own space, right?
As we wrap up our bird spikes adventure, don’t forget to frequently check on your new setup. And if bird spikes don’t cut it, don’t worry. There are plenty of bird dteerrent options available. But hey, that’s a topic for another day.
