Now that the temperatures have dipped, there is a good chance rodent will attempt to claim your living space as their own. You have the power to prevent a rodent infestation. Follow the rodent prevention checklist as detailed below to help keep your home rodent-free.
Add and Check Door Sweeps
Rodents are small enough to fit beneath some doors. You can prevent such a mouse invasion by adding door sweeps. If you already have door sweeps, check them at least once per year to ensure they really can keep mice out.
Check Your Garage Door
Garages are convenient entry points for rodents, including mice. Though your garage isn’t heated, it is still warmer than the cold outdoors in the winter. Pests will move into your garage without hesitation. They will wait until you open the garage and back your car out before finding a hiding place. Take a close look at your garage door to ensure there is not a gap between it and the floor. If such a gap exists, have a professional modify it, or install a new door.
Take a Look at Those Pest Monitors
If you do not have pest monitors around your home, consider adding them. Once these monitors are added, they should be checked at least once annually. Keep in mind some pest monitoring systems such as glue boards will prove less effective when the temperatures dip down low.
Use the Proper Dryer Vent Cover
Rodents gravitate toward sources of heat in the winter, spring, and fall. If your dryer vent is out of date, it will become quite hot and guide rodents toward the dryer. Take a close look at the vent cover to gauge whether it is clean, specifically made to keep pests away and functioning as designed. If absolutely necessary, go ahead and install an approved vent cover to prevent rodents from finding their way in.
Mind the Storage of Seasonal Items
If you decorate your home for the holidays, don’t just throw everything in the attic when the festivities come to an end. Put these items in sealed containers for improved organization and also to reduce the chances of a rodent moving in. After all, pests would love to use your seasonal items to make nesting materials.
Mind Areas With Food
Food should be stored in containers and bags that have airtight seals. Be sure to clean off your countertops after preparing food so any leftover crumbs aren’t available for rodents. Do not toss kitchen appliances and food containers/dishes in the sink and let them sit for hours or days on end. Clean these items as soon as possible so mice, rats, and other rodents are not tempted to venture in and eat them.
Mind the Drainage
Your outdoor drainage system has the potential to prevent a rodent infestation. Add new gutters or have your current drainage system repaired so water and moisture move away from the home. The right drainage system will also help prevent leaks and build-up that brings pests and rodents toward your home. If your gutters are merely clogged, be sure to have them cleaned so water does not accumulate and also so rodents are not provided with nesting materials from your roof.
Are You Suspicious a Rodent is in Your Home? We Can Help
It is a mistake to attempt to live in a home with a rodent. Rodents have the potential to carry diseases, cause allergies and make your home a mess. Reach out to us today to find out how we will analyze your rodent problem and eliminate those pesky buggers.