It’s late and you’re in your favorite, cozy pajamas. You get in bed and pull up the warm comforter. You turn out the light and are just about to drift off to sleep when you hear a noise coming from the attic. You sit up to listen, but it quickly goes quiet again. You lie back down and close your eyes, and just as you fall asleep, the noise is back, this time it’s coming from inside the wall.
You have a visitor — an unwanted visitor. As much as we all enjoy our cozy homes, they are also the perfect setting for pests like rats and mice to snuggle up and escape the cold air, too.
Whether you’ve already noticed signs of pest activity or just want more peace of mind at home, use these four preventative tips to eliminate and prevent potential pest infestations.
1. Seal off entry points to stop rodents from squeezing in.
Rodents can enter through holes as small as a dime, and will use any vulnerable opening to get in-from your foundation to your roofline. To keep these unwelcome intruders out, start by checking the perimeter of your home and repairing any small cracks or holes. In order to prevent rodents from chewing through these sealed areas, layer your sealing work by stuffing it first with a metal mesh, such as steel wool, and then sealing it down with caulk. This can also help keep summer pests such as spiders and ants at bay.
2. Secure food sources to eliminate the attraction.
Pests are not picky eaters. Once they find a food source, they are notorious for overstaying their welcome (and inviting friends). While critters can thrive in even the cleanest of houses, homeowners should remove any temptations by sweeping up spills and crumbs immediately.
3. Clear up clutter in your yard.
Debris leaning against your exterior walls are a perfect, protected pathway around your house. Leave at least a foot of space between these items and your home, and move mulch away, too. Then, clean out your gutters and remove any dead leaves.
4. Know when to call in the pros.
Waiting until it’s too late to call in a certified professional can be dangerous and lead to major damage. Pest control companies like Terminix offer free pest inspections to assess your home, and can remove any critters that may have settled in.