Winter often brings cozy blankets and hot chocolates, but it also brings unwelcome guests that can wreak havoc. You need to look for ways to rodent-proof your home as winter creeps in to protect your property, health, and peace. To avoid sharing your home with these vermin at Christmas, here are some proactive steps you can take that are recommended by the experts at Nevada Wildlife Removal.
Why Does Rodent-Proofing Matter in Winter?
Rodents are not just some nuisance that you can shake off. Rodents pose significant health and safety risks, especially if you have children in the house. Their droppings and urine all over the house can spread diseases. At the same time, their constant chewing can cause damage to wiring and structural beams.
Know Your Rodents
To know how to get rid of rodents, you must first understand the variety of rodents that are out there. Then you will be able to take the most effective targeted measure.
- Grey Squirrel: They are seen mostly in parts of Nevada and North Carolina. They are not a big problem in the yard, but if they get inside your home, they can be a menace.
- Roof Rats: They are often known as black rats. You should be very vigilant to not allow them into your home at all costs.
- Norway Rats: Sometimes known as brown rats, they are significantly more aggressive than roof rats. They carry diseases and are considered a major pest.
- Mice: Mice are common rodents in Nevada that are found in both urban areas and in the wild. House mice are considered pests and can infest homes.
- Raccoons: Raccoons contribute to a massive pest problem in Nevada as they damage properties by accessing attics and chimneys and raiding garbage cans. They also pose a health risk of carrying diseases and parasites.
Know Why Rodents Like Your Home
One of the best rodent control tips is knowing why rodents are targeting your home. If you can understand the reason, eliminating the problem becomes much easier.
- Do you leave trash around?
- Do you have trees touching the roofline?
- Do you have tall grass or shrubbery where it is easy to hide for wildlife?
- Do you keep firewood near your home?
- Is your house generally cluttered?
If your answer to one or more of these is yes, then your property may be attractive to rodents.
5 Ways To Keep Rodents Out of Your Home This Winter
This winter, if you are not careful, you might find that the warmth of your home is being shared by uninvited guests. Here are 5 ways to do effective rodent-proofing this winter.
1. Seal Entry Points
Rodents do not wait for an invitation to get to your home. The smallest cracks, vents, and holes are enough for them to creep in and create chaos. It is vital to inspect your home and seal the entry points to rodent-proof your home.
Where to Inspect and What Materials To Use
Look at the exterior walls, foundation, crawl spaces, and across your roof for any potential entry points. Use steel wool, caulk, and hardware cloth to close the gaps.
Pro Tip: Avoid using expanding foam alone. Rodents can typically chew through them. Instead, reinforce it with a metal mesh.
2. Store Food Securely
Rodents get into your home in winter to search for food. One of the most practical ways you can rodent-proof your home is by eliminating the food source.
Food Storage Best Practices and Kitchen Habits That Help
Try to keep your food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Wipe your kitchen counters after cooking to get rid of crumbs. Vacuum regularly and empty the garbage can on time.
3. Reduce Clutter and Nesting Materials
Clutter is the equivalent of pheromones to rodents. They provide nesting areas and hiding spots, so they are always looking to invade spaces that need a little care. If you see signs of rodent infestation, it is time to organize.
Things to Do Inside and Outside the Home
- You should start organizing your basement with plastic boxes instead of cardboard, which rodents can chew through.
- Dispose of any old newspapers, scrap fabric, or other similar things to reduce clutter.
- Trim the shrubs and branches and keep firewood at least 20 feet away from the house.
- Remove tall grass and debris near the foundation of your home.
4. Maintain Cleanliness and Sanitation
Rodents thrive in places where food and water are available. Lack of cleanliness and poor sanitation can make your home a target for rodents.
Pro Tips for a Clean and Sanitized House
- Clean under the appliances in the kitchen and dining area to get rid of all food.
- Sanitize your food prep areas daily and use lidded trash cans both outside and inside.
- To control moisture, fix leaky faucets and pipes.
- Make sure there is good ventilation.
- Use dehumidifiers for damp areas.
5. Partner with a Professional Wildlife Removal Company
While proactive DIY steps help, it is important to consult an expert if the infestation is getting out of hand or if it is recurring. This is where a wildlife removal company with humane rodent removal services becomes invaluable.
Benefits of Hiring Professionals
There is always an edge to consulting an expert about infestation who knows what they are doing. Some of the benefits include:
- Comprehensive Inspection: Experts know where to look and can identify hidden entry points and nesting areas.
- Humane Removal Methods: Companies with this policy abide by both state and federal law to preserve the ecosystem.
- Long-Term Prevention: Many companies offer guarantees or exclusion services that provide long-term benefits.
Rodent-Proof Your Home This Winter
Winter is the prime time for rodent infestation, but you do not have to share your house with uninvited guests. Rodents can be removed humanely to maintain the safety, health, and peace of your family. Nevada Wildlife Removal provides the right kind of help so your challenges have an easy solution. Call the experts to say goodbye to unwanted guests.
Conclusion
While there are many DIY methods to deal with rodents, sometimes even our best efforts yield little results. It is time to hand over the reins to professionals who will make your home a safe haven again.
Call Nevada Wildlife Removal, because your peace of mind starts here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rodent-Proofing Your Home:
Q1: Which type of rodents are the most dangerous inside the house?
A1: While all rodents carry the danger of diseases, roof rats are particularly notorious in regions of the US.
Q2: Do shrubbery and tall grass attract rodents?
A2: Yes, they do, as they provide the perfect hiding spot for rodents.
Q3: Can you eliminate severe rodent infestation with DIY methods?
A3: No. For severe infestations, you must consult professionals who can provide targeted removal techniques. Companies like Nevada Wildlife Removal employ humane ways to get rid of rodents and provide long-term results.
Add Comment