You might think mice are pretty cute, but you do not want wild ones in your home. You probably want to have rats around even less. They carry disease, and they can deliver a nasty bite if they’re cornered.
You can always call a rodent exterminator when you need one, but it’s even better if you can keep these pests out in the first place. Let’s talk about some ways you can do that.
Look for Cracks Under Doors
Doors are the best means of ingress for humans, and they can be that for rodents as well. Do your doors fit snugly in their frames? If not, make sure you have them repaired. This way, no rodents can squeeze into your house under the doors.
Look for Cracks Around the Windows
Windows are another potential access point, especially ones that are close to the ground. Repair any broken ones, and make sure all your windows fit snugly in their frames as well. Some rodents can fit themselves into your home by accessing the smallest gaps you can imagine.
Keep Your Wood Supply Away from the House
If you burn wood in a fireplace in your home, you might feel snug and toasty that way in the winter. Be sure to keep your supply of wood a good distance from the house, though. Rodents love living in woodpiles, and having one too close to your home is like an invitation for pests to come exploring.
Keep Your Garage Clean
Your garage should be kept clean so that it’s easy for you to find items you need. Keeping it clean also keeps rodents away, though. A messy garage is an invitation for some unwelcome guests.
Keep Your Basement Clean
Your basement is the same way. If you have a messy basement, there are ample places for rats or mice to hide.
If you clean your basement, that means you should be able to spot rodents quickly if they find their way in. You should also be able to see the crack or crevice where they’re coming in if you notice one, and that means you can more easily stop it up.
Don’t Leave Food Out
Rodents like mice and rats want two things: food and warmth. You can block up likely entrances to keep them away from your warm house, but you can also put all your food away instead of leaving it sitting out on the counter or elsewhere in your home. The enticing smell of food is just as likely to attract rodents as a warm environment is on a cold night.
Don’t Let Rodents Gain a Foothold
Another way you can keep your home free of rodents is to take action immediately if you spot one. Remember that just because you saw a single mouse or rat, that doesn’t mean they’re alone. Contacting an exterminator or setting up some traps can stop a single exploring rodent before it turns into a full-blown infestation that’s far more costly to control.
