Summer is here, and it comes with an abundance of food sources for rodents! Overflowing garbage cans from backyard parties and picnics, ripe vegetables in the garden, fallen fruit from trees, and pet food left outdoors are all irresistible to rats and mice.

Summer is also the time when juvenile rats and beta males leave overcrowded rodent colonies in search of new harborage. That means your home could be at risk. Taking a  moment to inspect your property can make a huge difference in preventing infestations.

1. Inspect Crawl Space Vent Screens

Check all of your crawl space vent screens to ensure they’re intact and secure. The preferred material is 1/4″ galvanized hardware cloth. Look for holes or tears, especially those caused by TV cable, plumbing, or HVAC installation. Make sure to patch them with additional screening or steel wool.  Not sure your home is sealed properly? Our pest control services can protect your property and keep rodents out.

2. Secure Your Crawl Space Access

If your home has an exterior crawl space access, ensure it has a tightly fitting door with no gaps larger than 1/4″. Keep in mind: plastic access well covers are not rodent-proof. You need a solid frame and door built into the foundation to truly keep rodents out.

3. Check Door Seals and Garage Sweeps

All doors, including garage doors, should close tightly with no visible gaps. Inspect garage door sweeps to make sure they’re in good condition and that there are no tears, especially in the corners. Remember: mice can squeeze through openings as small as your little finger, and rats can get through holes the size of your thumb! 

4. Trim Tree Branches Away from the Roof

Roof rats are excellent climbers and can jump up to six feet from a tree to your roof. Keep branches well-trimmed and away from your home’s roofline to limit their access points.

5. Keep Garbage and Clutter Under Control

Avoid stacking firewood or debris against your house, and keep clutter around your yard to a minimum. Store all garbage in tightly-lidded bins and don’t let trash accumulate. Easy access to food waste is a major attractant for rodents.

6. Remove Outdoor Pet Food

Feeding your pets outside? Be sure to remove food bowls immediately after feeding. Pet food is a reliable food source for rodents and can attract them quickly. 

Rodents are creatures of convenience. If your home offers easy access to food, water, and shelter, they’ll be more likely to move in and stay. On the other hand, if you make your property difficult to access and eliminate their resources, you significantly reduce the chances of an infestation.

It’s all a game of probability. The more proactive steps you take, the less likely rodents will find your home appealing. Stay vigilant, especially during the warmer months!

Even with the best prevention steps, rodents are persistent. If you’ve spotted droppings, gnaw marks, or strange noises in the walls, it’s time to act fast. Our licensed technicians at All Seasons Pest Control have over 40 years of experience protecting homes and businesses across the South Sound.

Call us today at (253) 535 – 5600 or schedule your inspection online to stop rodents before they cause costly damage.

Protect your property. Protect your peace of mind.