Pigeons nesting on your ledges, beams or overhangs leave droppings that damage surfaces and create health risks. Installing professional netting stops them from landing and building nests without harming the birds. But before you hire a contractor, you need to check a few things about your property and the company you choose.
This checklist walks you through what to inspect, what to ask, and how to prepare before scheduling pigeon netting in Brawley. Following these steps will help you get a lasting solution the first time.
Inspect Your Property for Problem Areas
Walk around your building and look for places where pigeons roost or nest. Ledges, beams, rafters, and covered overhangs are the most common spots. You might see bird droppings, feathers, nesting materials, or hear cooing sounds during the day.
Take notes or photos of each location. Count how many ledges or beams need protection and measure approximate heights if you can do so safely. This information helps contractors give you an accurate estimate and plan the right amount of netting material.
Also check for active nests. If pigeons are already nesting, you may need to have nests removed and the area cleaned before netting goes up. Look for signs of damage to wood, paint or stucco caused by acidic droppings.
Check What Type of Netting You Need
Not all bird netting is the same. Two-inch mesh is the standard for keeping pigeons out while allowing airflow and light through. Smaller mesh is for sparrows and starlings, while larger openings won’t stop pigeons.
Ask the contractor what material they use. UV-resistant polyethylene or nylon netting lasts longer in the strong sun typical of the Imperial Valley. Cheap plastic netting can crack and sag within a year or two.
Find out how the netting will attach. Quality installations use cable systems or tracks secured with stainless steel hardware that won’t rust. The netting should be pulled tight so birds can’t slip underneath or push through sagging sections.
Verify the Contractor’s Experience and Approach
Not every handyman knows how to install pigeon netting in Brawley correctly. Ask how long the company has specialized in bird control and how many netting projects they have completed. Experience matters when working at height and securing netting to different surfaces.
A good contractor will inspect your property in person before quoting. They should explain where netting will attach, how they will seal gaps, and what prep work is needed. Be wary of anyone who quotes over the phone without seeing the site.
Ask if the company uses its own employees or subcontractors. Crews who work together regularly produce more consistent results. Also find out if they carry liability insurance to protect your property during the installation.
Prepare Access to Ledges and Beams
Installers may need ladders, scaffolding or lifts to reach high ledges and beams. Clear the area below the work zone so crews can set up safely. Move patio furniture, planters, grills and vehicles away from the building.
Unlock gates and side yards if the crew needs to bring equipment through. Trim back any tree branches or shrubs that block access to ledges. If your building is close to a neighbor’s property, let them know work is happening so they aren’t surprised by noise or activity.
Check whether the contractor needs access to your roof or attic to anchor netting cables. Make sure you know the work schedule so someone can unlock doors or gates as needed.
Understand Cleaning and Maintenance Requirements
Before netting goes up, all droppings and nesting debris should be removed. Pigeon waste carries bacteria and fungi that can make people sick. Professional cleaning protects your family and gives the netting a clean surface to attach to.
Ask if cleaning is included in the netting quote or billed separately. Our pressure wash service removes buildup from ledges, beams and walls so the area is ready for netting installation.
Find out how to maintain the netting once it’s installed. Quality netting requires very little upkeep, but you should inspect it once or twice a year for tears or loose edges. Ask the contractor if they offer maintenance visits or repairs.
Questions to Ask Before You Sign a Contract
A detailed estimate protects both you and the contractor. It should list the areas to be covered, the type and amount of netting, the attachment method, and the total price. Make sure you understand what is included and what costs extra.
Here are key questions to ask:
- What size mesh will you use and why?
- How will the netting attach to my building?
- Will you clean the area before installing netting?
- How long does the installation take?
- What happens if I find a tear or loose section later?
- Do you guarantee your work?
Never feel rushed into signing. A reputable company will give you time to review the estimate and compare options. If something seems unclear, ask for an explanation in plain language.
Plan for Future Bird Control Needs
Netting works best as part of a complete bird control plan. If pigeons are already nesting on your property, you may need trapping or exclusion in addition to netting. Our pigeon trap program removes birds humanely before netting is installed.
Think about other vulnerable areas on your property. Solar panels, attic vents, and roof edges can also attract pigeons. Addressing all problem spots at once often costs less than scheduling separate visits later.
Ask the contractor what other services they recommend. A thorough inspection may reveal issues you hadn’t noticed. Solving the problem completely saves you time and money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pigeon netting last on ledges and beams?
Quality UV-resistant netting installed with proper hardware typically lasts ten years or more. Cheaper materials may need replacement in two to five years. Regular inspections help you catch small problems before they become big ones.
Can I install pigeon netting myself?
DIY installation is possible for low, easy-to-reach areas, but most ledges and beams require working at height with specialized equipment. Poor installation leaves gaps that pigeons exploit, wasting your time and money. Professional crews have the tools and experience to do the job safely and correctly.
Will netting harm the pigeons?
No. Netting is a humane exclusion method that simply blocks access to roosting and nesting sites. Birds are not injured. They move to other locations instead. Proper installation ensures no birds become trapped behind the netting.
Ready to Protect Your Property in Brawley?
Bye Bye Pigeons Inc. has been helping families and businesses across the Imperial Valley solve pigeon problems with proven methods and professional service. We install durable two-inch netting over ledges, beams and other surfaces where pigeons build nests. Our crews handle every job as if it’s our own home.
If you’re ready to stop pigeons from damaging your property in Brawley, call us at (760) 909-6099 or visit our contact page to request a free estimate. We serve the entire Imperial Valley and work every day from 6 am to 4 pm Pacific Time.