Ways to Prevent a Rodent Infestation in Your Home

According to Research Square, rodents cost American homeowners more than $19 billion in damages yearly. Rodents are not only a nuisance but can also pose a serious health risk by contaminating food and spreading disease. 

Fortunately, you can take some steps to prevent a rodent infestation in your home. This short guide will look at some of the most effective ways to prevent a rodent infestation.

Cut Off Entry Points in Your Yard and House

Inspect your house for any cracks or holes that rodents could use to get inside. Ensure all cracks and holes on the exterior of your home are sealed, especially around doors and windows. Check your vents and chimneys to ensure they have proper screening.

Check the garage and shed for any gaps, and seal them as well. By sealing off their entry points, you can make it much harder for rodents to get inside, reducing the risk of an infestation.

Remove Available Sources of Food and Water

Rodents are attracted to areas where they can find an easy meal. Store food properly and keep your kitchen clean. Keep food in tightly sealed containers to avoid leaving crumbs or other food debris around your home. Furthermore, regularly sweep and mop floors to pick up any crumbs that could attract rats or mice.

Eliminating water sources will also help to deter rodents. Do this by fixing leaks, emptying out any standing water, and ensuring your drains drain properly.

Be Mindful When Feeding Birds

Feeding birds is a great way to enjoy nature. However, this can also attract rodents if bird seed is out. Rodents are attracted to the food and will often invade homes in search of a meal. To avoid this, clean up any spilled birdseed and keep feeders away from the house.

Additionally, consider using a squirrel-proof feeder. It'll deter rodents while still allowing birds to enjoy a meal. You'll enjoy feeding birds without attracting unwanted guests.

Avoid Taking Out Garbage Frequently

Rodents, including mice and rats, are attracted to garbage. If you take your garbage out frequently, you may unknowingly invite these pests into your home. To avoid this, try to store your garbage in a container instead of garbage bags and take it out only when it is full.

Eliminate Possible Nesting Sites

Eliminating possible nesting sites means trimming back any overgrown vegetation and removing any debris that rodents could use to build nests. Keep your lawn mowed and tidy. If you have trees or shrubs near your home, ensure they are well-trimmed. In your yard, keep firewood and other potential hiding places away from your house.

Rodents like mice and rats are attracted to dark, humid areas, which makes crawl spaces and attics very attractive. These areas are prime real estate for rodents. However, they won't stay if they can't find a comfortable place to nest. Make sure these areas are well-ventilated to discourage them from taking up residence in your home.

Use Baits and Traps

Place bait stations in strategic locations around your home, as they will lure rodents in with the promise of food. Once the rodents enter the station, they'll be trapped and unable to escape. This method is highly effective, but it does require some regular maintenance.

You need to check and replenish the bait stations regularly. Also, empty the traps on a regular basis. If you're willing to put in the effort, baits and traps are a good way to keep rodents out of your home.

If you take these precautions, you should be able to avoid a rodent infestation in your home. However, if you already have an infestation, call a pest control company. They can safely and effectively get rid of the rodents and help you keep your home rodent-free in the future. If you need a professional pest control company, please get in touch with us today.