Armadillos may seem like harmless, slow-moving creatures, but in the world of structural damage, they can be surprisingly destructive. Across Florida—especially in areas like Bradenton, Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Parrish—homeowners are increasingly discovering that these burrowing pests are capable of causing severe damage beneath foundations, pool decks, patios, and sidewalks. When left unchecked, armadillos can turn a minor nuisance into a major financial headache.
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How Armadillos Cause Structural Damage
Armadillos are prolific diggers. With their strong claws and natural instinct to burrow, they dig tunnels in search of insects, grubs, and shelter. These burrows can be as long as 15 feet and up to 5 feet deep, often created along foundations, under AC pads, pool decks, concrete slabs, and porches.
The problem? Once the soil is removed, it creates voids under structural elements that rely on compacted earth for stability. Over time, the unsupported slab can begin to settle, shift, or crack. These cracks might be cosmetic at first, but if ignored, they can evolve into serious structural concerns requiring intensive repairs.
Common Signs of Armadillo-Related Structural Damage
- Cracks in exterior stucco or brick along the lower portion of your home
- Sinking or tilting pool decks or patios
- Voids or soft spots in the soil next to foundation walls
- Buckling or shifting sidewalks
- Doors or windows that no longer align or close properly
- Uneven floors inside the home
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly. Armadillo activity may be ongoing beneath the surface, making things worse by the day.
What It Takes to Fix Foundation or Deck Damage from Burrowing
Once armadillos have destabilized the soil under a structure, professional repair is often needed to restore the integrity of your home. Here’s what that can involve:
1. Soil Stabilization
This is the first step if voids or soft spots are discovered beneath concrete or structural areas. A process called pressure grouting or polyurethane foam injection is often used to reintroduce material into the voids. In this process, specialized compounds are pumped beneath the structure to fill empty pockets and recompact the soil.
2. Foundation Pinning or Underpinning
If cracks or movement are more severe, foundation pinning may be necessary. This process involves driving steel piers or helical piers deep into the stable earth beneath the home and then attaching those piers to the foundation to prevent further settling. This is a more invasive, but permanent solution for compromised foundations.
3. Deck or Slab Lifting
For pool decks or patios that have sunk or shifted, a technique called slab jacking can be used. This involves lifting the slab back into place and stabilizing it with injected materials underneath. If the deck is too far gone, a full demo and rebuild might be the only option.
Cost of Repairs Caused by Armadillo Damage
The cost to repair armadillo-related damage varies based on severity, accessibility, and the type of repair needed:
| Type of Repair | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Soil Stabilization (grouting or foam injection) | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Foundation Pinning (helical or steel piers) | $10,000 – $40,000+ |
| Slab Jacking / Pool Deck Lifting | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Full Deck/Patio Replacement | $5,000 – $15,000+ |
| Armadillo Trapping and Exclusion | $450 – $1,200 (depending on extent of infestation) |
While these costs are estimates, the truth is that early detection and intervention can save you thousands. The longer armadillos are allowed to dig and destabilize the soil, the greater the damage—and the repair bill.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Removal
A single armadillo can dig multiple burrows across your property. If you’ve seen signs of one, there’s a good chance more damage is happening underground than you can see. Additionally, other animals (like snakes or rats) may take shelter in these burrows once abandoned, compounding the issue.
Ignoring armadillo activity invites the risk of foundation compromise, plumbing disruption, electrical issues (if lines are buried), and even safety hazards for pets and children. Every day the animal is active increases the likelihood of structural damage.
Professional Removal and Prevention
At Nuisance Wildlife Removal Inc., we specialize in humane, effective armadillo trapping and exclusion throughout Manatee, Sarasota, and Hillsborough counties. Our expert technicians will:
- Inspect your property and locate all burrow sites
- Set professional-grade live traps strategically
- Monitor and remove trapped animals
- Provide long-term exclusion solutions to prevent re-entry
- Offer referrals to licensed contractors for any necessary structural repairs
We also work closely with property owners to create proactive solutions, such as fencing modifications, soil reinforcement, and routine property checks to catch problems early.
Protect Your Investment
Your home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make. Don’t let a small, armored digger compromise its structural integrity. If you’ve noticed burrowing activity or early signs of damage, take it seriously. The cost of trapping and prevention is a fraction of what you might pay for underpinning a foundation or rebuilding a pool deck.
Get ahead of the problem before it becomes a disaster. Contact us today for an inspection and keep your home standing strong—no matter what’s digging beneath it.
- Read a article on armadillo damage from Tallahassee Magizine
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