Rats and mice are not just nuisances, they can pose serious health risks, damage property, and contaminate your food. One of the most effective ways to prevent a rodent infestation is through rodent exclusion, which involves making sure they cannot get inside your home in the first place. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control will share some tips to ensure these unwelcome guests are excluded from your property.

What Causes Rodents in Your House?

Rats can squeeze through holes the size of a quarter, while mice can get through gaps as small as a dime. Rodents are also natural climbers and can use vulnerable areas both high and low in a home. These unique abilities of rodents make them very difficult to control. There are many steps you can take to exclude or prevent these determined pests from invading your home.

Find & Seal Mouse & Rat Entry Points

• Holes and Cracks: Use a mix of steel wool and caulk to seal small holes. For larger gaps, consider using metal sheeting, hardware cloth, or metal mesh.
• Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows close tightly. Consider installing door sweeps or weather stripping to close gaps beneath doors.
• Roof: Check for broken tiles, gaps in soffits, or other vulnerable areas in your home. Remember, many rodents are excellent climbers.

Decluttering Helps Get Rid of Mice & Rats

• Indoors: Keep your living areas tidy. Rodents can use clutter as hiding spots and nesting material.
• Outdoors: Regularly mow the lawn, trim overgrown bushes, and remove garden debris. Store firewood at least 20 feet from the home and elevate it off the ground.

Keep Rodents Away from Food & Waste

• Secure Food: Store food, including pet food, in airtight containers. This reduces the attractions for rodents.
• Garbage: Ensure your trash cans have tightly fitting lids. Regularly clean them to avoid residue or lingering smells that might attract rodents.

Monitor to Detect Rodent Activity

• Rodent Trails: Rats and mice often use the same paths, leading to noticeable trails or rub marks. Regularly inspect your home for any such signs.
• Droppings: Rodent feces are a clear sign of their activity. Regularly check potential hiding spots and clean up any droppings you find. Remember to always use gloves.

What Landscaping Deters Rats & Mice

• Tree Trimming: Trees should be trimmed away from the house to prevent rodents from using them as bridges.
• Garden: Plant rodent-repellent plants such as mint, which can act as a deterrent.
Pipe and Vent Screens
• Vents: Make sure vents like those for the attic or crawl space have fine mesh screens to prevent rodent entry.
• Pipes: Rodents can swim and navigate through sewer lines. Add grates or screens to prevent them from coming up through toilets or sinks.

Other ways to Control Rodents

• Regularly inspect your home, particularly during seasons when rodents seek shelter from the cold.
• Work with neighbors. Rodent exclusion is more effective when an entire neighborhood takes preventative measures.
• Seek Professional Advice. If you are unsure about your home’s weaknesses, consider having a professional pest control service conduct an inspection. They can offer tailored advice and solutions.

Rodent Inspections, Exclusion, Control, Removal, Management & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas

While rodent exclusion might seem like a daunting task, regular checks and maintenance can make it manageable. Remember, the key is to think like a rodent, looking for every possible entry point and food source, and then taking steps to eliminate them. If you find you need professional help with your rodent exclusion, contact A Five Star Termite & Pest Control today.