In just a few weeks fall will be upon us and as soon as that temperature drops, rodents like Norway rats and Roof rats will be looking for a warm place to shelter. Don’t make your property appealing to them. At United Pest Solutions, we understand how important it is to protect your home from these pests, especially since some can transmit harmful diseases to humans. We’ve compiled 10 ways you can protect your home from rodents this winter.
How to Deter Rats
Fix or Replace Pipes
Rats are great swimmers. Fixing any broken pipes you may have can help prevent them from gaining access to your home through your plumbing.
Install Screens to Chimneys and Exterior Vents
Roof rats, Norway rats, and mice can wiggle their way into spaces much smaller than it may appear and they’ve been known to scale chimneys and siding. Screening vents and chimney openings will help keep them out.
Seal the Exterior of Your Home
As previously mentioned Roof rats, Norway rats, and mice will squeeze into tiny spaces. So, ensuring any cracks or holes on the side of your home and foundation are sealed will help keep them out.
Seal Your Doors, Garage Doors, and Windows
If your exterior door or garage door is uneven at the bottom, a rodent will easily squirm its way in. You can add door sweeps to the bottoms of doors and garage doors to keep them out. As for windows, use weather stripping or caulk.
Ventilate
Basements, attics, and crawl spaces provide rodents access to food and moisture. Keep these spaces dry and ventilated.
Store Food Properly
Use airtight containers for food as leaving food out attracts rodents.
Clean Up
In addition to properly storing your food, keep your property clean as well. Throw debris and trash away in sealed receptacles.
Keep Firewood Away From Your Home
Like debris, stacks of firewood can also attract Roof rats and Norway rats. So keep your firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and if possible, keep the wood elevated.
Check Your Vehicles Regularly
Rodents may find shelter in your vehicle like underneath your hood. Check your vehicles regularly looking for any droppings, chewed wires, or nests.
Regularly Inspect Items Being Brought into the Home
Inspecting also goes for anything that is taken from the outside and being brought in. This can include groceries, packages, boxes, etc. If it’s been out for a while, a rodent may have snuck its way in.
Experts in Rodent Control and Removal
Rodents like rats and mice can cause damage to your home and transmit diseases. So if you believe you have a rodent problem it’s important to take care of the issue immediately. At United Pest Solutions, our highly trained technicians will inspect your home and determine the most effective treatment to eliminate rodents from your home in the long term.