I just discovered that a woodpecker has drilled a 5-inch hole in my house on the second floor, and it's really stressing me out! I'm not sure which trade I should call to fix it. Should I get a carpenter with a ladder? Is it just a matter of filling it in, or is there more I need to consider? I'm not exactly rolling in money here, so I could use some advice.
3 Answers
To prevent that woodpecker from just returning, consider patching the hole with something durable, like a scrap piece of wood or putty, and caulking it. A metal cover might work too if you want to stop them from getting in again. Remember, you may need to keep them from coming back even after the patch-up! Best to check for any insect problems if the hole is that big.
It’s likely that the hole was made for nesting, especially at that size. You’ll probably want to contact a handyman to patch it up properly. If you stuff it with steel wool before applying a patch, that would be a good way to deter critters from getting in. Just remember to check on your exterior materials and make sure there’s no existing pest issue; woodpeckers usually indicate a problem. Take care!
It sounds like that woodpecker was after something more than just creating a hole. Typically, they drill to get to insects hidden in the siding or if there's water damage. You might want to start by checking for pests and see if there's an underlying issue with your wood. Just patching it might not solve the problem since they could be back if the source of the bugs is still around. I suggest consulting a handyman who can check the entire area for damage and help with repairs too. Good luck!