Is it ok to fill gaps in loft/roof eve?

Over Clocker · 3 Nov 2009 at 09:36

Hi guys. We get an annual problem of getting a wasp nest every summer in the eve of our loft. We had one chemically treated in 2008, but in 2009 we got another wasp nest next to it. They come from the outside into the air gaps in the loft eve. We're having both nests removed later this week, and I was wondering if there is any reason not to fill these air gaps in? Someone has told me the loft should have some ventilation...

Thanks,

Mal

mac1st3 · 3 Nov 2009 at 09:41

cover it with a mesh of some kind, stop them coming in, but then they might build on the mesh, so make it a metal mesh and run a small current through it

Engram · 3 Nov 2009 at 09:42

If it was originally built with ventilation, then I think it needs to stay ventilated.

Lack of air flow in a loft space can lead to problems with condensation, which in turn can damage the timbers and the loft contents if not checked.

http://www.tipking.co.uk/loft_ventilation.shtml

Could you use very fine netting to stop the wasps getting in? EDIT: mac1st3 - SNAP!

Siliconslave · 3 Nov 2009 at 09:43

I've always read and been told to leave an air gap - i guess its so any moisture can escape, otherwise you'll get mold and rot setting in.

gjrc · 3 Nov 2009 at 09:46

http://www.wovenwire.co.uk/insectmesh.htm?gclid=CJalm-fF7p0CFUtp4wodcmm3MA

Over Clocker · 3 Nov 2009 at 09:52

Thanks very much guys

jas72 · 3 Nov 2009 at 10:09

I have the same problem although it's not too serious as they don't bother me and I can't for the life of me find the next but we always have a queen wasp in our decoration box each christmas which I nuke to hell with a flame thrower. I was up in the attic last weekend and saw one buzzing around but couldn't get to it.

So annoying knowing that next year i'll have a nest again...