Preparing your home to protect it from unwanted guests seeking warmth and shelter is something that homeowners have to face as winter comes around and temperatures start to drop. However, searching for pest control near me may seem like a quick fix until after rodents become a problem. However, when rodents are not a problem, earlier preventative measures are the most effective way to have a pest-free home during winter.
Understanding Entry Points
To truly prevent rodents, it’s important to understand the channels through which they enter the home. Rats need to fit through slightly larger openings than mice, which can creep through openings the size of a quarter inch. It becomes very crucial in the pre-winter months to do a very thorough inspection of your home exterior. Pay attention to foundation cracks, utility pipe entries, vents, chimneys, door frames, window frames, roof joints, and eaves. Once those potential entry points are identified, they should be sealed using steel wool, caulk, or metal sheeting because rodents can gnaw through almost any common building material.
Yard Maintenance
The condition of your yard can scale a lot when it comes to rodent problems. An outdoor space that’s well maintained will naturally scare these unwanted visitors away. These make an environment less attractive to rodents; that is, regular grass cutting, prompt removal of leaf piles, and properly storing firewood away from your house. Trimming tree branches that overhang your roof and removing surrounding vegetation from around your house may prevent these creatures from using existing pathways to access your home. Also, remember that rodents like to nest within dense vegetation close to your home.
Food and Waste Management
Food storage and waste management are things that need to be done right to prevent rodent infestation. They tend to be attracted to properties where they can easily find food that is easily accessible. Put all your food items and animal feed in sturdy, airtight containers. You’ll want to mop up any spills or crumbs as fast as they happen, and your garbage bins will need tight-fitting lids. But never have bird feeders when it’s cold outside, especially during winter, as it will attract rodents to your property with the birds feeding them there! Regular cleaning of pet feeding areas makes eliminating food residue that might attract unwanted visitors easier.
Moisture Control
Homeowners tend to neglect another important aspect of rodent prevention: moisture management. All living things need water to thrive. Address any moisture around your property, such as letting pipes leak and faucets, ensuring gutters drain properly, and addressing basement dampness. Bathrooms should be well ventilated and any roof leaks fixed as soon as possible. A dry home also keeps rats out and other potential problems such as mold growth and structural damage.
Interior Prevention
Strong exterior defenses may be sufficient, but we must not overlook exterior prevention. Keep their living space clean and clutter-free (a messy area is a great place for rodents to hang out) because rodents like to live in clutter-free areas. Look for rodent activity regularly in dark, quiet spaces such as attics and crawl spaces. Exterior doors still need door sweeps and mesh screens (or other mesh) on vents and openings to help with these persistent pests.
Conclusion
During the winter, regular maintenance and vigilance are needed to keep minds clear of rodents. Make a monthly inspection routine to spot new entry points while observing the preventive measures there. If you notice damage or deterioration of your defenses to winter’s unwanted visitors, you are wise to take care of repairs promptly to keep your home protected. Constant attention to these preventive measures will help you minimize the chances of confronting rat issues during the cold days of winter.
References:-
- https://www.victorpest.com/articles/rodent-proof-your-house-for-winter
- https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/keep-rodents-and-pests-out-this-winter/
- https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Your-Home-Free-of-Rodents