How To Discourage Rats And Mice

How To Discourage Rats And Mice From Gaining Entry To Your Property This Summer

Keeping Rats and Mice Away from Your Property
As the warm summer months approach, homeowners often find themselves facing an unwelcome problem: rats and mice invading their property. Rodents cause damage to your property, spread diseases, and create a general nuisance. If you're wondering how to discourage rats and mice from gaining entry to your property this summer, you are in the right place. Let’s explore effective strategies and practical tips to discourage rats and mice from entering your property. By implementing the following measures, you may enjoy a rodent-free summer season.

How To Discourage Rats And Mice From Gaining Entry To Your Property this Summer
When it comes to rodent prevention, the best offense is a good defense. By taking proactive steps to discourage rats and mice from gaining entry to your property, you can avoid the headaches and potential hazards associated with their presence. Here are some tried-and-true methods to keep these critters away:

1. Seal All Entry Points
Rodents are experts at squeezing through tiny openings, so it's crucial to seal off any potential entry points. Inspect your property thoroughly, paying close attention to gaps around windows, doors, utility lines, and vents. Use steel wool that will cut up a rodent’s mouth and discourage them from chewing, or metal door sweeps to seal these openings effectively.

2. Keep Food Sources Secure
One of the primary reasons rats and mice are attracted to your property is the availability of food and water. Take measures to deny them access to their favorite treats. Store all food in airtight containers made of sturdy materials like glass or metal. Additionally, make sure your garbage cans have tight-fitting lids and are emptied regularly. Inspect the underneath of garbage cans to look for gain of entry points there as well.

3. Maintain a Clean Environment
It cannot be emphasized enough that rats thrive in unkempt and cluttered spaces. Keep your property clean and well-organized to discourage their presence. Regularly sweep and mop floors, vacuum carpets, and remove any potential hiding spots, such as piles of debris or overgrown vegetation. It is almost impossible to stop rodent infestations without first cleaning the environment around the infestation area.

4. Trim Trees and Shrubs
Overhanging branches and dense shrubbery provide easy access points for rats and mice to climb onto your property. Trim trees and shrubs, maintaining a distance of at least three feet between them and your house. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of rodents finding their way inside.

5. Install Door Sweeps
Rats and mice can easily slip under doors, even if the gap seems small. Install metal door sweeps to create a barrier that prevents rodents from entering your home. Evans Pest Control can help you find the right door sweep that will discourage rats and mice.

6. Eliminate Standing Water
Besides food, rodents also require water sources to survive. Remove any standing water around your property, as it can attract not only rats and mice but also other pests like mosquitoes. Fix leaky pipes, ensure proper drainage, and empty any containers that collect rainwater.

FAQs About Discouraging Rats and Mice in Summer

1. Are rats and mice more active in the summer?
Yes, rats and mice are more active in the summer due to the favorable weather conditions. They seek shelter, food, and water, making homes an attractive target.

2. What diseases do rats and mice carry?
Rats and mice can carry various diseases, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and rat-bite fever. It is crucial to prevent their entry to protect your health.

3. Can I use ultrasonic repellents to deter rodents?
While ultrasonic repellents claim to deter rodents, their effectiveness is questionable. It is best to rely on proven methods such as sealing entry points, keeping a clean environment, and eliminating sources of food and water to discourage rats and mice effectively.

4. Are natural repellents effective in deterring rodents?
Natural repellents such as peppermint oil, vinegar, or mothballs may have some temporary effect in deterring rodents. However, their efficacy is limited, and it's essential to complement their use with other preventive measures.

5. Should I use poison to get rid of rats and mice?
Using poison to eliminate rats and mice can be risky, especially if you have pets or children in your home. It's best to focus on preventive measures and non-lethal methods of rodent control to avoid potential harm to other members of your household. Evans Pest Control practices safe methods for disseminating poison, using locking boxes. Poisons should only be used by professionals. The friendly professionals at Evans Pest Control can explain the proper use of poisons, and by the way, Evans Pest Control has available at their store a complete line of professional rodent control products.

6. What should I do if I already have a rodent infestation?
If you suspect or have confirmed a rodent infestation in your property, it's advisable to contact Evans Pest Control. They have the expertise and knowledge to effectively eliminate infestation and prevent future occurrences.

Keeping rats and mice away from your property during the summer months requires a proactive approach and diligent maintenance. By sealing entry points, securing food sources, and maintaining a clean environment, you can significantly reduce the risk of rodent infestation. Remember to trim trees and shrubs, install metal door sweeps, and eliminate standing water to make your property less appealing to these unwanted guests. If you already have an infestation, don't hesitate to call Evans Pest Control for advice. By implementing these measures and staying vigilant, you can enjoy a rodent-free summer and protect the health and integrity of your property.