I get where you’re coming from—critter damage is always in the back of my mind too. I’ve had PEX lines outside for about four years now, just wrapped in foam and painted, and so far, no issues. I did spot a squirrel gnawing on the insulation once, but it didn’t get through to the pipe. Maybe it helps that I check them every spring? I do wonder if there’s a better way to keep rodents off without spending a ton. Anyone tried metal mesh or something similar over the foam?
Metal mesh over the foam actually works pretty well—at least for a while. I’ve patched a few rural cabins where folks used chicken wire wrapped around their pipe insulation, and it definitely slowed down critters, but determined squirrels will sometimes chew right through if they’re motivated. I once found a spot where mice squeezed through a tiny gap in the mesh, so it’s not foolproof, but it’s better than nothing. Ever thought about using that aluminum tape over the foam first? It adds a layer they don’t seem to like, though it won’t stop the really persistent ones. Regular checks seem to be the real key, honestly.
Yeah, I’ve seen that mesh trick too, but honestly, those rodents are relentless. Tried the aluminum tape once—looked promising, but after a season, something still gnawed through. Seems like nothing’s totally critter-proof. I just keep patching and hoping for the best...
Seems like nothing’s totally critter-proof. I just keep patching and hoping for the best...
Tell me about it—if rodents ever unionize, we’re all doomed. I swear, I’ve seen a mouse chew through stuff that should be on Mythbusters. Ever tried steel wool mixed with caulk? It’s not pretty, but it slows them down. At least until they get creative.
On the sunlight-to-hot-water front, I’m curious—are you running lines through the attic or sticking with roof panels? I’ve seen folks try those black hose coil setups, but I always wonder if the squirrels see them as a new jungle gym. Or maybe that’s just my luck.
I keep thinking there’s gotta be a “set it and forget it” kit out there, but every time I install something, it turns into a game of whack-a-mole (sometimes literally). Anyone actually had a season where the critters didn’t win? Or is this just the price of admission for free hot showers?
I’ve tried the black hose coil thing on my shed roof—worked great for about a week until the raccoons decided it was their personal slip-n-slide. Ended up with teeth marks and one section completely flattened. I patched it, but honestly, it’s like they’re testing my engineering skills for fun.
For actual hot water, I went with a basic roof panel kit (SunHeater something-or-other). It’s not “set and forget,” but at least the panels are rigid and less appealing to chewers. Ran PEX lines through the attic, insulated them to death, and so far, just minor gnawing. Nothing catastrophic yet.
Steel wool + caulk is my go-to for gaps, too. Not pretty but it slows them down—at least until they find a new spot. I think you’re right: free hot showers come with a side of rodent drama. If someone ever invents a truly critter-proof system, I’ll be first in line... but I’m not holding my breath.