As winter continues on and the weather remains cool, rodents will be out looking for ways to keep warm. One of the ways they do this is by invading into our attics. Now, it may not seem like a huge deal to have a few overwintering rodents taking shelter above you, but we can assure you that their presence should raise a serious concern. Although it may seem like you are just sharing your heat with these small furry guests, rodents can be a major problem to homeowners in a number of ways.
Home Invasion and Unwanted Presents
Free food and shelter can be an enticing thing, especially for rodents. In nature, rodents have to work hard to find food and build a shelter. Inside our homes, many times, these amenities are provided for them. The only thing they must do is get into your home.
Rodents will invade your home in a couple different ways.
- Through a small crack or gap in your foundation.
- Around a loose pipe.
If there is an opening, and the promise of easy living, rodents will try to squeeze inside.
Once indoors, rodents look for a more permanent nook where they can build a nest and lay their head. Usually, this is available to them in attics and basements, where there are lots of boxes and clutter to hide in and around, and a general lack of human activity. This is where the real trouble starts. When rats, mice, and even squirrels, set up their shelter in your home, its spaces become their playground, cafeteria, and toilet. We assure you, no one wants to share their home with a rodent.
Prevention Steps
Keeping rodents out of your home can be done in a variety of ways. Generally, this can be done by reducing rodent attractants, removing places for them to hide, and sealing off potential points of entry.
Consider the following steps to reduce the likelihood that rodents will invade your home this fall and winter:
- Seal cracks or gaps found along your exterior foundation, as well as around loose piping and ventilation.
- Replace or repair broken or torn window and door screens.
- Replace missing shingles.
- Repair any major structural damage through which rodents could gain entry.
- Trim branches away from the walls of your home.
- Clear debris and foliage from your yard.
- Make sure trash cans are sealed tightly.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Clean up after meals, and be careful not to leave leftovers out overnight.
When Rodents Invade Call a Professional
Keeping rodents out of your home is much easier than removing them from your home once they've invaded. If your home has fallen siege to rodents, it may be time to call Adams Exterminating Company.
With quality service and methods you can trust, Adams handles rodent problems of all sizes. Don’t hesitate, and don’t give rodents the chance to ruin your winter. Contact Adams to learn how we can help today!