“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” – Benjamin Franklin
Rats in your home can be far more than simply annoying; they damage walls, wiring, and insulation. Avoid costly repairs by preventing rats and mice from entering your home in the first place. Follow these tips to keep your home rodent-free:
1. Remove current rat residents – If there are already rats present in your home, remove them immediately with the help of professional pest control. DIY methods are ineffective; seek expert assistance if you have an infestation.
2. Seal cracks and holes – Holes in walls, doors, screens, and other parts of the home can provide entrances for rodents. Use rodent-proof materials like steel wool or cement to block these areas. Avoid sealing these areas with materials like plastic, wood, or rubber; rodents can gnaw through them and create new holes.
3. Install screens – Rodents can also enter through openings like chimneys and drains. Have pest control technicians place screens or chimney caps in these areas to make sure rodents can’t take use them to get inside. If you already have screens to keep pests out, check them regularly and replace them when they age or weaken.
4. Store food properly – Rodents are attracted to areas where they can easily find food. Keep stored food in sealed, airtight containers. This also applies to birdseed stored in outdoor sheds or garages. Use garbage cans with tightly sealed lids. After a meal, clean the kitchen and dining areas and wipe up any spills.
5. Eliminate outdoor access – Some species of rats are good climbers; trim overhanging trees to keep them from accessing your roof. From there, rats can gain access to drains or your attic. Pruned trees can also make it harder for rats to hide, making it easier for predators to catch them.
6. Clean your yard – Clutter in your yard (e.g. wood and leaf piles, tires, etc.) provide good nesting sites for rats. Clean up outdoor trash to deny rodents any hiding spots. If you have bushes and shrubs, keep them planted several metres away from the home and prune them to avoid overgrowth.
7. Invest in mint – The smell of mint can repel insects and rodents. Planting mint in your garden or keeping potted mint plants near doors and windows can dissuade rats from entering.
If you find yourself with a rat problem, call a pest control service to handle the problem. They can remove the pests and prevent them from returning.
Mr. Pest Control provides removal services for rodents and other pests that might infest your home. Contact us at (705) 739-7378 for Barrie residents, or (705) 326-3377 in Orillia.
