Frequently asked questions
Why do I need bird proofing?
Birds, especially pigeons, use buildings of all types for nesting and resting. This can cause issues both for the property owners and the residents of the building. When pigeons and other birds infest a building, they can cause damage to the structure of the property. They can damage the roofing and other materials by burrowing into small spaces and building their nests. Over time, this damage will get worse and may lead to leaks and other serious maintenance issues.
When birds get too comfortable, their droppings will build up on the facade of your property and create an unsightly display. When large numbers of these birds congregate on a property, or there is a build-up of mess, it can pose a significant health risk to those living and working in the building. We also offer a bird guano removal service that will remove all traces of droppings from your property.
Does bird proofing work?
Yes, bird proofing works effectively when implemented correctly.
Bird proofing methods, such as bird spikes, netting, wire systems and repellent gels, are designed to deter birds from nesting, roosting, and landing on structures without harming them. These measures address the issues caused by birds, including property damage, health risks from droppings, and nuisance.
The key to successful bird proofing lies in selecting the right method for the specific situation, which often requires an assessment of the bird activity level, the architecture of the building, and the surrounding environment. Professional installation ensures that bird deterrents are placed strategically to cover potential entry points and roosting sites comprehensively. It’s also crucial to maintain these systems over time to ensure their continued effectiveness.
When bird proofing is tailored to the property's needs and properly maintained, it provides a long-term solution to prevent bird-related problems, safeguarding the integrity of buildings and the health of their occupants.
What types of bird and pigeon deterrents are there?
Some common types of bird proofing include:
Bird spikes
Bird spikes act as a useful deterrent for birds to prevent pigeons and other species from landing on surfaces and causing mess. The Birdpoint system, used by Spectrum, is one of the best and most robust point systems available. It is specially designed for areas of heavy infestation of bird species and is effective against almost all urban bird species.
Anti-bird spikes work well to protect the front leading edge of a building. They are intended to stop birds perching on ledges and fouling the front of a property. Spikes can be installed at all levels of a property, especially with the assistance of our rope access team.
Bird netting
Bird netting is an effective and long-lasting way of bird proofing a building. Often used on high-rise buildings, bird netting prevents birds from accessing balconies, ledges, roofs and window sills.
Spectrum uses the Birdnet system, a 2mm stainless steel perimeter cable supported by stainless steel fixings. These fixings are drilled into the property at regular intervals to provide a strong, solid anchor for the cable. The cable is tensioned using a high-quality grade 316 stainless steel M5 or M6 barrel strainer. The net is then securely attached to the cable using stainless steel hog rings.
Once in place, this system is strong and durable. It can be adapted to suit most properties and is effective against almost all species of bird.
Bird wire
Bird wire can be installed to prevent birds from perching on the perimeter of a building. Spectrum uses the Birdwire system, one of the most widely used anti-perching control methods in the UK. It is effective at preventing pigeons and seagulls from perching on the ledges of buildings and is used in towns and cities across the country.
Bird repellent gel
Bird repellent gel is a non-toxic and long-lasting bird control solution which repels birds without causing any harm. Using this method reduces disruption to a building and has minimal impact on the aesthetics of a property. It can be used against pigeons, starlings and sparrows. The sticky texture of the gel is unpleasant on birds' feet and deters them from perching on surfaces. Bird Gel is suitable for linear problem areas such as ledges, parapets and cornices.
What is the best pigeon deterrent?
Bird repellent gel is a non-toxic and long-lasting bird control solution which repels birds without causing any harm. Using this method reduces disruption to a building and has minimal impact on the aesthetics of a property. It can be used against pigeons, starlings and sparrows. The sticky texture of the gel is unpleasant on birds' feet and deters them from perching on surfaces. Bird Gel is suitable for linear problem areas such as ledges, parapets and cornices.
The best pigeon deterrent can vary depending on the specific context and requirements of the location. However, one of the most effective and universally applicable pigeon deterrent solutions is bird netting. Bird netting prevents pigeons from accessing roosting and nesting areas on buildings, making it highly effective for both small and large-scale applications. It's discreet, does not harm the birds, and can be installed on various structures without impacting the aesthetics of the property.
Bird spikes are another popular choice, especially for ledges and window sills, to prevent pigeons from landing and nesting. These bird spikes are easy to install and maintain, and like netting, they offer a humane way to deter pigeons.
Ultimately, the best deterrent is one that suits the specific needs of the property while being humane and environmentally friendly. We can help you to identify the most effective solution for your individual needs.
Why is Spectrum the best choice for bird proofing?
Based in central London, Spectrum can accommodate any client and tackle jobs across the UK. Our rope access team is highly trained and can install all bird proofing options quickly and discreetly. All of our bird control systems are designed to provide maximum protection while blending in as seamlessly as possible with the façade of a building.
Tailored solutions
Spectrum has extensive experience working on all types of buildings, including schools, hospitals, offices, residential properties and highrises. Our experience means our operatives can assess the specific bird control needs of your property and create a bespoke solution. By customising our approach for each client, our operatives can ensure a great result for every bird proofing project.
Experts in access
Our operatives are highly trained in a range of access options so we can offer effective pest control in high-rise buildings and large commercial or domestic properties. To reach every part of a property, we can use rope access and BMUs, our cherry picker or our in-house designed and patented modular pole system. Using these techniques, our operatives can access the most complex buildings in a smart and cost-effective way.
Highly skilled and experienced
Before starting a bird control project, we always carry out inspections to determine the best solution. These inspections allow us to determine the level of bird activity in the building and identify the main problem areas. Our highly-skilled and experienced team will then create a comprehensive and effective plan for bird control, protecting the property and solving the issue once and for all.
Nationwide service
While Spectrum is based in London and the South East, we can tackle jobs across the UK. This allows us to provide a high-quality, great value bird proofing service to clients in all corners of the country.
Bird proofing helps businesses and property owners protect their buildings, tenants and customers. Finding the best solution for each individual property ensures our clients get a great result and can protect their buildings for years to come. Get in touch with a member of our expert team to find out more or to discuss a bird control project of your own.
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