Fall Pest-Proofing: How to Protect Your Home from Rodents as Temperatures Drop

Sep 16th, 2024

As the weather cools down, rodents like mice and rats start seeking warmth and shelter indoors. Fall is the prime season for these unwelcome guests to make their way into homes and businesses, often bringing damage and health risks. At CleanStart Property Services, we want to help you stay rodent-free this season with some simple tips to pest-proof your property and keep rodents out.

Fall Pest-Proofing

1. Seal Entry Points

Rodents can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, making it essential to inspect and seal any potential entry points. Focus on:

Cracks and gaps around windows and doors
Openings around pipes, vents, and utility lines
Holes in walls or foundations

Use caulk, steel wool, or metal mesh to seal these areas, as rodents can chew through softer materials.

2. Install Door Sweeps

A gap beneath your door is like an open invitation for rodents. Installing door sweeps on all exterior doors will block rodents from sneaking in. Pay extra attention to basement doors and garage entrances, as these areas are often overlooked.

3. Keep Food Sealed and Stored Properly

Rodents are always on the hunt for food, so keeping your home or business free of accessible snacks is key. Store food in airtight containers, including pet food, and clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Don’t forget to secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids, both indoors and outdoors.

4. Maintain Your Yard

Overgrown bushes, fallen leaves, and cluttered outdoor areas are perfect hiding spots for rodents. Keep your yard tidy by:

Raking up leaves and debris
Trimming shrubs and plants away from the foundation of your home
Storing firewood at least 20 feet away from the house

These steps make it harder for rodents to find shelter and prevent them from nesting near your home.

5. Check for Roof and Attic Vulnerabilities

Rodents are excellent climbers and can easily make their way to your attic or roof. Inspect your roof for loose shingles or openings around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Ensure attic vents are properly screened, and repair any damage to the roofline that could allow entry.

6. Set Up Rodent Prevention Measures

If you live in an area prone to rodent activity, consider setting up preventative measures like traps or bait stations. You can also call professional pest control services like CleanStart to set up scheduled inspections and rodent maintenance.

Stay Ahead of Rodents This Fall

By taking these simple steps to seal entry points and maintain your property, you can keep rodents from seeking warmth in your home or business this fall. If you’re dealing with an infestation or need help with preventive measures, CleanStart Property Services offers professional pest control solutions to keep your property rodent-free.