Rodent Proofing Your Home
Most of us grew up with the images of Mickey and Minnie Mouse and they are still cute and popular characters today.
However, when it comes to the real “Mus musculus” (Latin name) or House mouse, I would venture to say that the majority of homeowners do not want these furry varmints to take up residence in our humble abodes. Keep in mind that rodents can carry many diseases. The Hantavirus has been proven to be carried by deer mice and white-footed mice, both of which are in our area.
Here are some do-it-yourself steps to take to rodent proof your home:
1. Inspect entire perimeter of your home/foundation – look for holes, cracks or any gap that is a ¼” opening (mice can get through this small of an opening, rats can get through a hole about the size of a quarter).
2. Inspect all doors, door frames, windows and window frames. Replace any weather stripping that does not have a tight seal. Any gaps or holes and cracks should be sealed. A kickplate on doors is recommended.
3. Trees and shrubs near home should be cut back to prevent rodents from using them as ladders onto the house.
4. Inspect the roof. Check shingles, roof vents and screens to make sure they are not damaged and if so repair and seal.
5. Inspect all utility entry points, pipe penetrations, etc. Make sure any gap or hole that is ¼” or larger is sealed using Stuf-Fit Copper Mesh, Pur Black Foam, mortar or metal as needed.
6. Pipes that run vertically up houses or brick homes can be utilized by rodents. You can paint a 12” band around the pipe and 3 feet from the ground using high gloss clear paint to prevent rodents from climbing.
7. Remove food and water sources when possible. Inspect and fix any leaking pipes or drains. Remember bird seed is a possible food source for rodents. Use discretion in the placement of bird feeders.
8. Clean up any rodent feces and urine found during the inspection. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask to avoid breathing in any broken fecal matter. Use a bleach solution. This will get rid of any pheromones left behind that future rodents would be drawn to.
If you encounter a rodent infestation that has gotten out of hand and one that cannot be eliminated through do-it-yourself efforts, contact a licensed pest control professional for assistance.
See below - Diagram - Common Rodent Entry and Harborage Locations.
By: Sandy Honess
However, when it comes to the real “Mus musculus” (Latin name) or House mouse, I would venture to say that the majority of homeowners do not want these furry varmints to take up residence in our humble abodes. Keep in mind that rodents can carry many diseases. The Hantavirus has been proven to be carried by deer mice and white-footed mice, both of which are in our area.
Here are some do-it-yourself steps to take to rodent proof your home:
1. Inspect entire perimeter of your home/foundation – look for holes, cracks or any gap that is a ¼” opening (mice can get through this small of an opening, rats can get through a hole about the size of a quarter).
2. Inspect all doors, door frames, windows and window frames. Replace any weather stripping that does not have a tight seal. Any gaps or holes and cracks should be sealed. A kickplate on doors is recommended.
3. Trees and shrubs near home should be cut back to prevent rodents from using them as ladders onto the house.
4. Inspect the roof. Check shingles, roof vents and screens to make sure they are not damaged and if so repair and seal.
5. Inspect all utility entry points, pipe penetrations, etc. Make sure any gap or hole that is ¼” or larger is sealed using Stuf-Fit Copper Mesh, Pur Black Foam, mortar or metal as needed.
6. Pipes that run vertically up houses or brick homes can be utilized by rodents. You can paint a 12” band around the pipe and 3 feet from the ground using high gloss clear paint to prevent rodents from climbing.
7. Remove food and water sources when possible. Inspect and fix any leaking pipes or drains. Remember bird seed is a possible food source for rodents. Use discretion in the placement of bird feeders.
8. Clean up any rodent feces and urine found during the inspection. Be sure to wear gloves and a face mask to avoid breathing in any broken fecal matter. Use a bleach solution. This will get rid of any pheromones left behind that future rodents would be drawn to.
If you encounter a rodent infestation that has gotten out of hand and one that cannot be eliminated through do-it-yourself efforts, contact a licensed pest control professional for assistance.
See below - Diagram - Common Rodent Entry and Harborage Locations.
By: Sandy Honess
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