Prevention:
* Seal the deck: Use a high-quality sealant that's resistant to moisture and pests. This will create a barrier that squirrels find less appealing.
* Trim overhanging branches: Squirrels use tree branches to access decks. Pruning them back will make it harder for them to reach your deck.
* Remove food sources: Make sure there's no birdseed or other food sources near your deck that might attract squirrels.
* Install squirrel-proof bird feeders: Look for feeders with cages or baffles that prevent squirrels from accessing the food.
Repellents:
* Pepper spray: Spraying a mixture of water and hot pepper flakes around your deck can deter squirrels.
* Commercial squirrel repellents: These often contain scents that squirrels dislike.
* Motion-activated sprinklers: These sprinklers can startle squirrels and keep them away.
* Ultrasonic repellers: These emit sounds that are unpleasant to squirrels. However, their effectiveness can vary.
* Cayenne pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the perimeter of your deck. The spice can irritate their nose and paws, discouraging them from returning.
Physical Barriers:
* Mesh netting: Cover your deck with a fine mesh netting that squirrels can't climb through.
* Metal flashing: Install metal flashing around the perimeter of your deck to prevent squirrels from climbing up.
* Slippery surfaces: Squirrels have difficulty climbing on smooth, slippery surfaces. Consider using materials like metal or tile.
Other Measures:
* Exclusion: If squirrels are gaining access through holes in your deck, patch them up with steel wool, caulk, or other materials.
* Trapping and relocation: If all else fails, you can try trapping squirrels and relocating them to a more suitable area.
Important Notes:
* Consistency is key: You'll need to be consistent with your chosen methods for them to be effective.
* Consider the environment: Some methods may not be appropriate for all situations. For example, using traps or repellents near bird feeders could also harm birds.
* Be patient: It may take time to find the right combination of methods that work for your specific situation.
By using a combination of these methods, you can effectively protect your deck from the damage of squirrels.