Many
of our homes are regularly targeted by rodents. A rodent infestation
can cause damage to the home, spread diseases and spoil food. As a
homeowner, you may find yourself in a circle where you are ever
trapping and baiting the rodents only for the infestation to occur
after a short period of time. The reason for this is that the
homeowner is trying to get rid of the mouse and rat infestation
instead of preventing the problem. The best way of handling the
infestation by rats and mice is by rodent proofing the home. There
are a few steps that you can follow when trying to do so.
Carry Out an Inspection.
You
will need to begin by checking for any droppings, gnawing or urine.
These are the signs of a rodent infestation. Inspect areas such as
the foundation all around the home. Look out for any gap, crack or
hole that will be ¼ or bigger that needs repair. For holes that are
smaller than 2, you can seal them using copper mesh or foam. For
holes and gaps that are larger, a good idea would be to use the sheet
metals or hardware cloth with a mesh of less than a quarter when
repairing the area.
Other
areas that will require to be checked include door flames, doors,
windows and the window frames. If there is any form of weather
stripping that doesn’t create that tight seal, this needs to be
replaced. Broken window panes will also require to be replaced.
Damaged door screens and windows will need to be replaced. Any hole,
gap or crack around the frames that are bigger than ¼ or bigger will
need to be repaired.
The
roof is another area that will need inspection. Look at the roof
ventilators, shingles and the vent screen to ensure that these are
not only secure but they are not damaged, repairing and replacing
where necessary. Ensure that the chimney has been capped to prevent
the animal entry. Check the utility entry points as these can also
provide an easy entry point for the rodents. If there is a hole or
gap that is bigger than ¼ around the wire, pipe or cable entry
points, these should be sealed.
It
is easy for rodents to climb up the homes that are made of stone or
brick. Like it is the case with pipes, you can prevent climbing by
painting a band of 12” with high glass paint around the structure
to prevent climbing. Ensure that you also get rid of all sources of
food and water for the rodents. All pet foot that remains uneaten
should be removed. To ensure that rodent proofing is done in a
professional way, it is advisable to work with a professional
company.
