Birds of all kinds can be a nuisance on a commercial flat roof. Their beaks can damage the roof membrane, and their droppings can clog drains, creating ponding water issues.
So, how do you keep them away?
Hire a Specialist
The most reliable method is to hire a contractor who specializes in bird control, and yes, they do exist. I know a contractor who has successfully kept birds off the roofs of major chain stores up and down the East Coast. He uses a variety of devices and methods depending on the type of bird and the building’s location.
So, I think it’s worth consulting a professional and getting quotes. The service is reasonably priced, especially if birds are causing a significant problem.
DIY Methods
If hiring a professional isn’t in your budget, there are some DIY methods you can try. Bear in mind, these methods will probably only be temporarily effective. The birds will eventually get used to them, just like they get used to a scarecrow in a field, and return again.
Here are some DIY methods you can try:
- Owl statues mounted on the roof can deter birds for a while, but the feathered creatures may eventually catch on and realize that the owls are harmless.
- Pre-recorded bird distress calls played on a loud loop. This can create an uncomfortable environment for the birds, but the effect may wear off over time.
- Rubber snakes thrown around the roof. Place rubber snakes randomly on the roof surface and move them around from time to time so the birds think the snakes are real and present.
I’m sure there are other DIY methods out there, but these are the ones I have come across. Of the three, rubber snakes work the best. Remember to place them strategically on the roof to create the illusion of a snake-infested area.
Your Best Long-Term Bet
Keep in mind that no DIY method will work indefinitely. If you have a persistent bird problem, hire a professional for a long-term solution.
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