How to prevent rodents from invading your home
Published on October 6, 2022
If fall is just around the corner, rodents are also lurking about. They're constantly seeking out spots that are nice and warm. While that's understandable, it doesn’t mean that you want to share your home with them either. So what should you do to prevent them from making themselves cozy in your home? Show them the door!
Why do rodents come to your place?
Why do they set up shop in your home? Well, the answer is quite simple. Your home is the perfect place for these little critters where they can find all they need. It’s an all-inclusive set-up where there’s food, shelter, lighting, heat and temptations galore!
Our homes are obviously filled with so many ideal things to help them settle comfortably for the winter. How can you outsmart them and kick them out for good?
How do you prevent rodents from invading your space?
Fall is on its way, but you can prevent rats, mice and field mice from coming into your home. It’s a good time to inspect the outside of your home, from the roof to the foundation for any possible points of entry.
Be sure to:
- install a metal weatherstrip under your doors
- caulk your windows with pest control caulking
- seal holes in your foundations
- cover your dryer vent and outdoor clapper, roof space, kitchen hood vents, etc.
Most importantly, keep in mind that any opening the size of a dime is enough to let rodents slip through. Make sure you go through every inch of your house.
As for the inside of your home, be sure to:
- keep your kitchen clean and tidy
- store your dry food in airtight containers
- keep your pets’ food in resealable plastic bins, etc.
Plus, don’t leave food lying around the house, if at all possible. Your new roomies would jump at the chance!
What type of damage can rodents do?
Mickey is obviously enjoying his new living quarters after trashing yours... He’s undoubtedly left a trail of problems in his wake. What type of damage can rodents do?
Of all problems, the worst is the risk of transmitting diseases. These little critters can spread a range of serious diseases to humans since they carry viruses (hantavirus) and bacteria (salmonellosis, leptospirosis, etc.). They’re also known to carry lice, fleas or mites. Not very appealing, is it?
There’s also the damage to the building: gnawed wires and cables, soiled insulation, damaged foundations and pipes, etc. Not to mention the noise they make scuttling back and forth, the odours they leave behind and the risk of food contamination.
The damage they can cause is pretty substantial, which is why getting rid of them is necessary, even essential.
Contact your home insurance broker if you need help or have any questions.