Hearing scratching in your walls or attic is never a welcome sound. It means you might have rodents, unwelcome visitors that can cause damage and pose health risks. Identifying how they get in is the first step to a rodent-free home. If you suspect you have a rat problem, contact Pestwise for rodent control in Sarasota, FL. Our experts can pinpoint entry points and develop a plan.
Common Entry Points You Might Overlook
Rodents, like mice and rats, are surprisingly adept at squeezing through small openings. A mouse can fit through a hole the size of a dime, and a rat can pass through an opening the size of a quarter. Here are common entry points to inspect around your home:
- Gaps Around Utility Lines
Look closely where pipes (like those for plumbing, AC lines, or electrical conduits) enter your house. These openings are often larger than the pipes themselves, leaving small gaps that rodents exploit. Seal these gaps with steel wool, hardware cloth, or cement.
- Damaged Vents
Crawl space vents, attic vents, and dryer vents can become entry points if screens are damaged, missing, or have wide openings. Regularly check these for holes or wear and repair them promptly.
- Cracks in Foundations and Walls
Even hairline cracks in your home’s foundation or exterior walls can be an invitation for rodents. Inspect your foundation thoroughly, especially around the base of the house and corners. Seal any cracks larger than a quarter-inch.
- Gaps Under Doors and Around Windows
Look for gaps under garage doors, entry doors, and even around window frames. Gaps as small as a quarter-inch under doors are enough. Install door sweeps or weatherstripping to block these access points.
- Roof Vents and Soffit Gaps
For rats and squirrels, the roof is a common highway. Check roof vents for damage, and look for gaps where the roofline meets the fascia or soffits. Repair loose shingles or fascia boards.
Get Rid of Unwanted Guests in Your Home
Finding these entry points is key to effective rodent control services. Once identified, sealing them tightly helps prevent future infestations.
For current infestations, a trained professional can safely and effectively deliver rodent removal services and advise on how to make your home more resistant to invaders.
Don’t let rodents take over your home. For comprehensive rodent pest control in Sarasota, FL, and lasting solutions, contact Pestwise. Reclaim your peace. Schedule a consultation today!