Houston Rodent Control

Rodents are perhaps some of the easiest pests to discover in your home, even though they may be some of the smallest in actual numbers. Rodents tend to leave a ton of visible damage in the homes where they live, including damage to walls, floors, wooden support structures, and even to cables or insulation. Because rats and mice are desperate for almost anything that could be considered food, they have been known to chew through the insulation around electrical wires, plumbing lines, and even the insulation between your attic and the rest of your home below.

Do you have a rat or mouse infestation and need rodent control in Houston? You might if you see any of the following signs in your home:

• Noises in the attic - Particularly at night time rats and mice can be very active in their search for food and water so noises at night time can be an indication of their search for food.
• Pellet-shaped droppings in garage, attic, or living areas - Rodents are notorious for leaving their droppings near their food sources or on the route. They also have weak bladders so their urine produces a unique stench.
• Gnawed holes in walls or other points of entry - Particularly as the winter months drag on rats and mice will become increasingly desperate for food. If you see any new holes in your screens or trash cans then call in our Houston rodent control experts.
• Nesting in insulation or other areas of the home - These rats and mice love to nest in enclosed areas with high density of cushioning. Look for signs of burrowing underneath your home on the sides of your lawns as well.
• “Grease” marks along where rodents frequent - If you see grease marks, foot prints or tail prints call in our rodent control experts. If the foot print is an inch in diameter then you're likely dealing with a rat while mice have feet about a quarter inch in diameter.

Mice and rats are a huge problem because these animals tend to frequent places where filth and disease are abundant. Often times they live in sewers and they can find their way into your home through sewer and drain lines. They also are frequent carriers of ticks and fleas, often spreading these infestations to family pets like cats and dogs. To make matters even tougher, they have the ability to crawl through spaces several times smaller than their bodies, meaning it’s incredibly difficult to keep these pests out once you get rid of them. 

Understanding What Attracts Rodents to Your Home

Rodents are attracted to homes for various reasons, often finding them to be ideal environments for their survival and reproduction. Understanding these factors can help homeowners prevent infestations effectively. 

Here's a breakdown of what attracts rodents to a home:

• Food sources: Rodents are scavengers and will seek out easily accessible food. Leaving crumbs on floors, uncovered garbage bins, or improperly stored food can attract them.
• Shelter: Homes provide shelter from harsh weather conditions and predators, making them attractive nesting sites for rodents seeking refuge.
• Water availability: Like any other living creature, rodents need water to survive. Leaky pipes, standing water, or even condensation can provide a water source for rodents.
• Clutter and debris: Piles of clutter, unused items, or debris in and around the home create hiding spots and nesting areas for rodents.
• Entry points: Rodents can squeeze through small openings, including gaps around doors and windows, cracks in walls, or vents. Poorly sealed entry points make it easier for them to access homes.
• Vegetation close to the home: Overgrown vegetation or trees near the house can serve as pathways for rodents to enter the home, providing cover and easy access.

In Houston, TX, where the climate can be warm and humid, these factors are particularly relevant. Homeowners should be vigilant in maintaining cleanliness, sealing entry points, and keeping vegetation trimmed to reduce the risk of rodent infestations.

Effective Strategies to Prevent Rodent Infestations in Houston

Preventing rodents from invading your home in Houston, or any other location, involves a combination of proactive measures. Here are some tips to help keep rodents at bay:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or holes in the walls, foundation, and around doors and windows. Use caulk, steel wool, or other appropriate materials to seal these entry points.
• Proper Food Storage: Keep food items, including pet food, in airtight containers made of glass or metal. Clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Dispose of garbage regularly and use bins with tight-fitting lids.
• Trim Vegetation: Trim branches and shrubbery away from the exterior of your home to eliminate potential entry points and hiding spots.
• Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your home to remove potential nesting materials, such as paper, fabric, or cardboard. Vacuum and sweep regularly, paying attention to areas where crumbs may accumulate.
• Secure Outdoor Storage: If you have sheds or outdoor storage, ensure they are secure and free of openings that rodents could use for shelter.
• Secure Trash Bins: Ensure that your outdoor trash bins have tight-fitting lids to prevent rodents from accessing food waste.