4 Things You Should Do To Ensure Rats Don't Enter Your Home
The last thing any homeowner wants to deal with is a rat infestation in their home. Besides being a nuisance, you should know that these pests are carriers of diseases. For example, they can contaminate your food by touching it or leaving droppings in open food containers. Also, they're destructive as they chew electrical wiring, insulation, clothes, and books. As such, if you believe you may have an infestation, call a rat control professional to help with extermination. Once this is done, there are different things you can do to ensure you don't deal with a re-infestation.
Remove Any Potential Food Sources
If you don't address the potential food sources for rats, they'll be a re-infestation sooner than you expect. Rats are attracted to leftover foods, so you should ensure that your garbage can is always closed. Also, if you have fruit trees in your yard, ensure that you pick up all ripe fruits on the ground. You also want to make sure you don't leave any leftovers on the ground when feeding pets during the day. Additionally, keep pet food in a rodent-proof container.
There Shouldn't Be Water Sources Near Your Home
Like other animals, rats need water for their survival. This is why you should ensure that there aren't any water sources close to your home. As such, one of the things you should check is a plumbing leak or areas within the basement and attic with moisture. If you have a garden near your house, ensure that you minimize water buildup in this area to avoid creating a water source for rodents.
Remove Any Potential Hiding Ground
Different places could be potential hiding grounds for rats, and you should take the necessary steps to eliminate them. For example, you want to remove debris like old appliances and junk vehicles sitting in your yard. Also, if there are wood piles on your property, ensure that you place them a few inches from the ground and the walls of your home. You must also remove heavy vegetation such as tall grass near your house.
Fill Up Any Cracks Around Your Home
Rats can squeeze themselves into tiny holes in your house. So, if you notice any of them around your home, ensure that you seal them. In some cases, the holes aren't easy to find because they're hidden behind cabinets and furniture. Also, if there are large cracks near windows and doors, you should weather-strip them.
Rats can cause major destruction in your home if you don't take measures to keep them out. For professional extermination, ensure that you seek the help of a local pest control service. It is also helpful if you consider the few things mentioned above to prevent a re-infestation.