HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM RODENT

Posted by Shally Warner on December 16th, 2020

Rodents are the most annoying pests not only for their ability to carry diseases but also the extreme damage they cause to valuable things in your house. To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to take the necessary actions once you spot their presence at home. Rodent control is not a simple task like other types of pest control. You may have attempted to implement rodent control on your own but end up with failing to get rid of them due to lack of knowledge, skills, and tools. You’re not alone as most homeowners are plagued with the same problem.

Here are signa of infestation that you should watch out before calling in pest professionals to work on your homes:

• Dark and greasy rub marks on walls that show where rodents have been traveling
• Gnawing marks on boxes, food containers, and other household items
• Small rod-shaped droppings between ½ and ¼ inch long that are moist when fresh and dry when old
• Foul or sour-smelling scent in tight spaces typically indicate urine and fecal wastes from rodents
• Daytime sighting as well as hearing rodents are positive signs of infestation. If rodents start moving in the day, this means that their number has likely grown. This means that they have extended foraging food from evening to daytime.  
• The present of a rodent nest is a sure sign of infestation. The rodents have decided that your home is a comfortable space where they can find food. Rodent nests are typically made from packing materials, plastic, fabrics, and other castoff materials that they can find at your home

The best cure is always prevention. Here are tips that you can implement at home to drive them away from your property and prevent them from further proliferation. Rodent proofing is an art and should be done when you first observe the signs of infestation:

• EXISTING RODENT OCCUPANTS

Two main types of methods of getting rid of rodents are baiting and trapping. For baiting, it’s best to use tamper-resistant bait stations that securely holds the bait in place while keeping children and pets out. Make sure to install baits and traps along common pathways where you typically see or find droppings. Common paths that rodents take are fence rails, foundations, and ledges.

• SEAL UP YOUR HOME

Inspect the outside of your home for easy access points for rodents. Seal all breaks, cracks, and crevices with silicone caulk. Make sure to focus on ears where utility pipes enter your home. Fill larger gaps inside your home as well. For optimal protection, it’s best to check for small holes indoors. Mice and other types of rodents can enter your home through holes the size of a dime; hence it’s best to seal these spaces, too. It is recommended to use steel wool to seal larger gaps as rodents cannot gnaw their way through this material.

• GET RID OF POSSIBLE NESTING SITES OUTSIDE THE HOME

Before entering your home, rodents typically build nest in outdoor spaces such as the yard. For instance, they can build nests in deep mulch and leaf piles. To avoid rodents from doing so, clean up debris around the home by keeping shrubs and trees regularly maintained and trimmed. Make sure the mulch is kept at least 15 inches from your house foundation. It’s best to get rid of old items such as old tires, wood, and unused items as they are considered as excellent nesting sites for rodents.

• ELIMINATE ACCESS TO WATER SOURCES

Get rid of any water sources that may attract rodents. Thoroughly inspect the inside and outside of your home. For instance, make sure to clean gutters to ensure no debris disrupts of the flow of water down your home’s roofing system. Remove birdbaths from your property and empty wading pools, so rodents can look for other water sources outside your property. Fix leaky hoses and outdoor water faucets. Finally, store pet foods and avoid leaving food and water bowls outside overnight.

• OBSERVE CLEANLINESS AT ALL TIMES

Make it a habit to vacuum and mop your floors in a daily basis. Use airtight containers to ore food item or place them in a refrigerator instead. Clean up any crumbs and liquid spills immediately, as the scent of food easily attracts mice and rats. Large kitchen appliances should be cleaned and stored away to ensure that rodents will less likely look for food at your home. Clean and disinfect countertops after use and wash dirty dishes on a daily basis.

• CONTACT PROFESSIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE

Should you need extra assistance in the prevention and management of your home, you can always call on the expertise of pest control service. Professional pest control service providers have the tools, equipment, and know-how to deal with rodent infestation, no matter how small or big the problem is. They will enforce tried-and-tested measures that will ensure you don’t have to deal with rodents anymore.

Rodent pest issues are an enduring occurrence in many homes and even businesses. As a property owner, being proactive is an excellent way to get rid of pests or avoiding rodent infestation altogether. NTX Best Pest is a reliable company offering affordable and effective pest control services for homes and businesses. Contact NTX Best Pet to establish a rodent-free environment for you and your loved ones. We currently serve homes and businesses in Frisco, McKinney, Denton, Prosper, and Little Elm.