Rodents thrive in our humid climate, often sneaking into our homes and causing all sorts of trouble! Rodents, such as rats and mice, can be destructive creatures and if they’ve invaded your home, and it can be difficult to remove them as they reproduce quickly! However, with a few simple steps, you can keep your home rodent-free! Check out our homeowner’s guide to keeping rodents out of your Jacksonville home.
Tips For Keeping Rodents Out Of Your Home
Keep Your Home Tidy
Rodents love cluttered areas and easy to access food, so keeping your home clean and organized is one of your first steps to avoiding rodents. Make sure you keep all food in airtight containers, including your pet food! Regularly clean your kitchen, dining areas, and any other areas where your family eats food.
Seal Rodents Out
Rodents can squeeze in through surprisingly small openings! Sealing up any potential entry points can help prevent these creatures from getting inside. Inspect throughout your home for any cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation. Pay special attention to areas where pipes and wires enter your home. Likewise, seal small gaps with caulk and larger ones with appropriate hardware cloth or metal flashing. Also, consider door sweeps to exterior doors to block gaps at the bottom.
Maintain Your Yard
Your yard is the first line of defense to deter rodents from approaching your home, so it’s crucial to keep it maintained. Overgrown vegetation can provide shelter and hiding spots for rats and mice, so it’s important to keep shrubs, trees, and grass trimmed away from your home’s exterior. Look to eliminate standing water sources throughout your property, removing anything that can hold water like unused flowerpots or toys. Additionally, use tightly sealed garbage cans and keep them a good distance from your home too.
Call a Professional
If you’re dealing with a severe rodent infestation or would just like extra peace of mind, consider calling a Jacksonville pest control company near you for a free inspection. These professionals will assess your rodent situation, identify the rodent, provide targeted rodent control treatments, and offer ongoing prevention recommendations to keep your home rodent-free.