Rodents, like mice and rats, are notorious for infiltrating homes, especially during autumn and winter. Did you know, however, that they tend to rely on the same few access points to make their way inside over and over? By identifying and sealing off these potential entry points, you can prevent rodents from entering and damaging your home.
Watch the video for an overview of the areas around your house to inspect. Then, read the blog for more detailed instructions on rodent-proofing your home. By following our instructions, you’ll identify your home’s vulnerable areas and learn how to prevent mice and rats from getting in.
Common Entry Points for Rats and Mice
Rodents are resourceful and determined creatures. If there's even the tiniest opportunity to squeeze into your home, they'll find it. Below are some of the most common areas where rats and mice gain access:
Gaps Around Doors and Windows
- How they get in: Poorly sealed doors and windows can leave just enough space for a mouse or rat to slip through. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as ¼ of an inch, while rats need a ½-inch gap.
- Prevention tips: Ensure all exterior doors fit snugly. Install weather stripping if necessary and caulk around door frames. Check that window frames are intact and well-sealed. For added protection, install door sweeps to block any under-door gaps.
Cracks in the Foundation
- How they get in: Small cracks or gaps in your home's foundation can serve as a highway for rodents. These cracks form as your house settles over time.
- Prevention tips: Inspect your foundation regularly and seal any cracks with caulk or concrete filler. For larger openings, consider using steel wool or wire mesh along with sealant to prevent gnawing rodents from reopening the gaps
Utility Lines and Pipe Entry Points
- How they get in: Rodents can squeeze through gaps where utility lines, pipes, or electrical wires enter your home. These holes often go unnoticed because they’re located in less visible areas like basements, crawlspaces, or behind cabinets.
- Prevention tips: Use caulk, steel wool, or expanding foam to fill gaps around utility entry points. For larger holes, use wire mesh with expanding foam for extra durability against chewing rodents.
Vents and Chimneys
- How they get in: Open vents, exhaust fans, and chimneys can serve as perfect entryways for rodents, especially if they lack proper coverings. Mice can climb up walls and trees, so even high vents aren't safe without proper screening.
- Prevention tips: Install rodent-proof covers or screens on vents, chimney flues, and exhaust fans. Metal mesh with holes no larger than ¼ inch will help keep rodents out while still allowing airflow. Don’t forget to check dryer vents as well.
Garage Doors
- How they get in: Garage doors that don’t close tightly or have small gaps along the bottom edge are easy targets for rodents. Once they find their way inside through the garage, they’ll move into the rest of the house.
- Prevention tips: Inspect the weather stripping along the bottom of the garage door and replace it if it’s worn. Ensure the door closes completely with no gaps. Consider installing a garage door threshold seal for an additional layer of protection.
3 Additional Rodent Prevention Tips
Beyond sealing your home, here are other tips to prevent rodent infestations:
1. Keep a Tidy Yard
Overgrown vegetation and piles of debris near your home create attractive environments for rodents. Keep your lawn trimmed, and store firewood and other materials away from the house. Rodents are less likely to nest close to your home if there is little cover.
2. Store Food Properly
Rodents are always on the lookout for food, so store pantry items in airtight containers. Don’t leave pet food out overnight, and clean up crumbs and spills immediately. No free meals means rodents won’t stick around.
3. Monitor for Early Signs
Even with preventive measures, rodents will sometimes still find their way inside. Keep an eye out for droppings, gnaw marks, or signs of nests. The earlier you detect a rodent problem, the easier it will be to resolve.
How to Get Rid of Rodents
Rodents are persistent pests, but with the right preventive measures, you can protect your home from unwanted invasions. By sealing common entry points and keeping a close eye on your property, you can make your home less attractive to rats and mice.
If you're having trouble finding or patching up all the access points around your home--or if rodents have already made their way inside—contact Plunkett's Pest Control right away. Our rodent control professionals can remove existing pests and help you prevent future infestations.
