As the temperatures drop, rodents such as mice and rats look for warm, sheltered spaces to nest. Unfortunately, your cozy home might become their top choice. Rodents are not only a nuisance but can also pose serious health risks and cause structural damage to your property. To help you enjoy a pest-free winter, we’ve compiled a list of practical tips for winter-proofing your home and preventing rodent infestations.
1. Seal Entry Points
Rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a dime. Inspect your home’s exterior for gaps, cracks, and holes in walls, around utility pipes, and near doors and windows. Use materials like steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth to seal any potential entry points. Pay special attention to your garage and attic, as these areas are common entryways.
2. Keep Food Stored Properly
Rodents are attracted to easily accessible food sources. Store pantry items such as grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers made of glass or heavy-duty plastic. Keep countertops clean and free of crumbs, and make sure trash bins have tight-fitting lids.
3. Eliminate Clutter
Rodents love to hide in cluttered spaces. Reduce the likelihood of infestations by keeping your basement, attic, and storage areas organized. Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes, which rodents can chew through.
4. Maintain Your Yard
A well-maintained yard can deter rodents from venturing closer to your home. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof and keep shrubs and bushes well-pruned. Remove piles of leaves, wood, and other debris that can serve as nesting sites.
5. Inspect Your Home’s Insulation
During winter, rodents often seek shelter in attics and walls where they can burrow into insulation. Check your insulation regularly for signs of damage, such as gnaw marks, droppings, or nests. If you notice these signs, it’s time to call in a pest control professional.
6. Use Rodent-Deterrent Materials
Place rodent-deterrent materials such as peppermint oil or ultrasonic repellents in areas prone to rodent activity. While these measures can help, they’re most effective when combined with exclusion methods.
7. Schedule an Exclusion Service
The best way to keep rodents out for good is through professional exclusion services. At Pest Pros Pest Solutions, we specialize in identifying potential entry points, sealing them effectively, and implementing long-term prevention strategies. Our team ensures your home is fortified against rodents, giving you peace of mind throughout the winter season.
8. Monitor for Early Signs of Infestations
Be proactive by keeping an eye out for early signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, scratching noises, or the smell of urine. Catching an infestation early can prevent it from escalating into a larger problem.
Why Exclusion Matters
Exclusion is the most humane and effective method of rodent control. Instead of relying solely on traps or poison, exclusion focuses on preventing rodents from entering your home in the first place. By addressing the root cause of infestations, you can enjoy a rodent-free home without the hassle of recurring issues.
Get Winter-Ready with Pest Pros Pest Solutions
Winter doesn’t have to mean sharing your home with unwelcome guests. With proper preparation and the help of professional exclusion services, you can safeguard your space from rodents this season.
If you’re ready to take action, Pest Pros Pest Solutions is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and exclusion service. Call us at 916-461-1PRO and let us keep your home pest-free all winter long.