Have you spotted chipmunks darting around your yard or garden? If so, you might be wondering what exactly they can and can’t chew through. These little guys have teeth that just don’t quit—they’re always gnawing on something.
But here’s the good news: chipmunks can’t chew through tough stuff like good-quality concrete or cement. Those materials make for solid barriers against their busy little mouths.
Chipmunks will make quick work of wood, drywall, plastic, and other softer things. Concrete and well-made cement? Not a chance. If you know what stops chipmunks from chewing, you’ll have a much easier time protecting your home and garden.
Let’s dig into which materials actually stand up to these persistent chewers—and how you can keep them from causing trouble.
Materials Chipmunks Cannot Chew Through
If you want to keep chipmunks out of your garden, yard, or even your house, picking the right materials makes all the difference. Some materials are just too tough for them to chew or dig through.
Honestly, knowing what works will save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Heavy-Duty Wire Mesh and Hardware Cloth
Heavy-duty wire mesh, especially ¼ inch hardware cloth, does a fantastic job at keeping chipmunks out. The tight weave is just too small for chipmunks or even little squirrels to squeeze through or chew apart.
You’ll want to bury that hardware cloth at least 6 to 12 inches underground. That way, chipmunks can’t just dig under your fence.
Make sure your mesh goes up 2½ to 3 feet above ground for good measure.
If you use vinyl-coated hardware cloth, you get extra rust protection. It’s easier to work with and the black color helps it blend in. Not bad for something so tough.
Galvanized Steel Barriers
Galvanized steel stands up to chipmunks, no problem. The special coating keeps it from rusting or corroding, even in rough weather.
Try using galvanized steel flashing on top of fences or around spots where chipmunks might sneak in. The shiny, wobbly surface throws off squirrels and other rodents, too—they hate unstable footing.
Pairing steel flashing with wire mesh gives you double the protection. That’s especially helpful around foundations or stairs, where chipmunks love to cause mischief.
Thick Stone and Concrete Surfaces
Stone and concrete are just too tough for chipmunks. These materials work well for building foundations or garden walls.
If chipmunks have been tunneling near patios or walkways, thick concrete barriers will put a stop to it.
Just remember to seal up any cracks or gaps in your stone or concrete. Chipmunks can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, but they can’t get through solid, hard barriers.
Natural and Repellent Methods to Deter Chipmunks
You can also use strong-smelling plants and safe repellents to keep chipmunks at bay. These tricks work best when you mix them with good garden habits.
They’ll help protect your plants and won’t harm wildlife, which is always a plus.
Garlic and Pungent Plants
Chipmunks really don’t like the smell of garlic or other strong plants like onions and chives. If you plant these around your garden edges, you’ll make the area less appealing.
You could also try mixing crushed garlic with water and spraying it on your plants. This homemade spray might keep chipmunks from nibbling on your veggies.
Just a heads up: you’ll probably need to reapply the spray after it rains or every few days. Garlic’s smell is strong enough to turn chipmunks away, but it’s still safe for your plants and pets.
Mixing garlic with other pungent plants creates a natural barrier that chipmunks usually avoid.
Marigolds as a Protective Plant
Marigolds are a handy addition if you want to keep chipmunks out naturally. These flowers give off a scent that a lot of pests—chipmunks included—really can’t stand.
Try planting marigolds around your veggie patch or next to your flower beds.
They’re easy to grow, add some color, and work as a natural chipmunk repellent. Plus, marigolds attract helpful insects that keep your garden healthy.
By planting marigolds, you get protection for your plants without chemicals and a nicer-looking garden, too.
Effective Use of Chipmunk Repellents
If plants aren’t cutting it, you might want to give chipmunk repellents a shot. Some folks mix up sprays with cayenne pepper or chili powder and water, then spray that right on their plants.
Chipmunks really don’t like the spicy taste, so they usually stay away. You’ll also find commercial repellents out there—these have smells or flavors chipmunks hate, but they won’t bother other animals.
You’ll need to reapply repellents regularly, especially after it rains. If you mix repellents, natural plants, and a tidy yard, you’ve got a pretty solid line of defense against chipmunks sneaking into your garden or property.
Curious about more chipmunk control tips? There’s some pretty detailed advice on how to get rid of chipmunks.
