How to Prevent Rats & Mice

How to prevent rats and mice in your Arlington and Fairfax VA - Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor'sNoticing more rats and mice this time of year? Every fall, rodent infestations spike as rats and mice make their way indoors. Just like any other type of pest, rodents are searching for warmth, shelter, and food, all of which becomes scarce as summer ends and cooler temperatures roll in. Rats and mice are notorious for getting indoors through any means possible, from your chimneys to plumbing pipes. With Rodent Awareness Week in full swing, read on to learn how to keep rodents out of your home this fall and all year long!

How Did I Get Rodents?

Even bigger rats and mice can fit into the tiniest of crevices when entering properties. Some have been known to fit through holes the size of a dime! When rodents are seeking shelter, they are determined and can find even the slightest vulnerability in your home to get inside. For this reason alone, it’s important to locate these vulnerabilities and seal any holes or crevices. Once they get indoors, they aren’t exactly stealthy and make their presence known with their gnawing habits, droppings, and noises.

How to Keep Rats and Mice Out in the Fall

Spotting a rat or mouse inside your home is not something any homeowner wants to deal with. To save yourself the frustration of getting an infestation, there are a number of ways you can prevent rodents from getting inside this fall:

  • Seal cracks and crevices: Rodents are known for their ability to squeeze through the tiniest of openings, which is why it’s important to seal any holes or cracks in your windows and doors.
  • Place screens over chimneys and vents: Rats and mice may feel the warm air escaping your chimney and vents, and make their way indoors. Properly cover your vent systems and chimney.
  • Fix or replace faulty pipes: Rodents are great swimmers and can make their way through your plumbing. Always fix any broken pipes in a timely manner to keep rats and mice from getting in.
  • Store all food properly: Rats and mice will seek out food inside of homes. Always keep food stored in airtight containers and clean up messes or spills after meals.
  • Keep a clean, mess-free home: Rodents are a big fan of clutter, and are attracted to messy basements and attics. Even worse, they’ll use the clutter to build their nests. Always clean up messes and avoid excess clutter.

Getting Rid of Rodents

Even if you’ve done all you can to prevent rodents from getting in your property, they still may make their way indoors. As soon as you see a rat or mouse inside, it’s time to call a professional. In addition to being gross, rodents can be dangerous with their ability to contaminate food with their droppings and urine. A professional pest control company such as Ehrlich Pest Control, formerly Connor’s Termite and Pest Control can not only get rid of any rodent problem you have, but prevent future infestations from forming.