As the weather gets cooler and temperatures continue to drop, outdoor pests begin to make their way indoors for the winter to nest, reproduce, and in some cases, take up permanent residence. Some of the most common intruders are mice and rats. They can also be some of the most damaging. Mice and rats carry any number of diseases, can transport other harmful pests with them, including ticks and fleas, and can wreak unimaginable damage to an average home by chewing their way through electrical wiring, wood, and more. So how do you keep these pests out of your home?
How to Keep Rodents Out This Winter
- Don’t Create a Welcoming Environment
Mice and rats, like many pests, are in search of three things when they are hunting for a new home – food, water, and warmth. Eliminate food sources by getting rid of clutter that can be a food source for rodents, including old clothing and books. Don’t store open food in your garage or basement. Homeowners should keep all food in airtight containers. Do you have leaky pipes, or does your basement flood during heavy rain? Aside from the severe damage that unchecked leaks can cause, a steady water source can also attract rodents. Rodent prevention can be an excellent additional reason for cleaning out your attic or basement.
- Seal Off Possible Entry Holes
Mice and rats can fit into holes the size of a quarter. Walk around the exterior of your home and check for any openings. If you have a cellar door and windows, pay close attention to these areas. Some houses have metal air grates that are part of the home’s ventilation system. These grates can rust away over time, creating large openings that rodents, squirrels, and other pests can use to enter your home. Be sure to check and replace seals around outer doors, including your garage door. Holes in your exterior walls can provide additional points of entry for rodents.
- Maintain Your Yard
Rodents will use bushes and shrubs, woodpiles, and tree limbs to conceal themselves as they slowly work their way into your home. Keeping your yard well-maintained will deprive them of this access. Rats and mice will enter your home by using any possible opportunity so trim back tree limbs. Rats are known to crawl down chimneys to enter homes, and reducing the number of tree limbs hanging over your house makes good sense before winter storms arrive.
Trust Twin Forks Pest Control® to Rid Your Home of Mice and Rats
Twin Forks Pest Control® has over 20 years of experience eliminating indoor pests, including mice and rats. Our trained experts will rid your home of unwanted pests quickly and efficiently. We offer comprehensive year-round protection plans so that your home stays pest-free. At the first sign of indoor or outdoor pests, contact the local professionals near you. Call us today for a free estimate.
