Rodents like to wreak havoc on South Florida homes. Between their destructive habits and their tendency to spread disease, having them in your house is bad news. As a homeowner, you want to avoid having rodents and, if they do find their way in, get them out. Here are a few tips for getting rid of rodents:
Tip 1: Seal up Entry Points
The best way to avoid having rodents in your home is to not let them inside. Seal up any cracks, holes or gaps in the exterior of your home. Caulk or use steel wool on any gaps you find. Replace or repair any weatherstripping that’s not in working condition. The fewer ways mice and rats can find to enter your home, the less likely you are to see them.
Tip 2: Keep a Clean and Tidy Home
Rodents find their way into homes seeking shelter, primarily for safe places to nest and breed. Cozy houses with plenty of clutter make perfect habitats for rodents. They don’t want to be seen by humans. If they have places where they can effectively hide, they’ll be more likely to stick around. They also stay around longer when they can find something to eat. Storing food properly and taking out trash in a timely manner act as strong deterrents against rodents.
Tip 3: Use Traps and Baits
Depending on the size of the infestation, you may be able to trap rodents on your own. First, you need to choose which type of trap you’re using. Some traps are considered more humane than others. Once you select a type of trap, make sure you choose a bait like peanut butter that can’t be removed from the trap. Then, place the traps near common rodent hiding places, like attics and crawl spaces. Remember to check on them in a couple of days and dispose of the traps in a timely manner.
Tip 4: Maintain Outdoor Areas
Rodents typically only go into homes they can comfortably sneak into. This starts with the yard. A well-maintained yard and garden creates fewer launching off points and areas where creatures can get into the home unseen. Maintaining outdoor structures like decks and sheds can help prevent many types of pest infestations, from termites to rodents. Keeping your outdoor area maintained gives pests fewer places to hide.
Tip 5: Schedule Regular Pest Control Services
The best way to get rid of rodents and avoid future infestations is preventative pest control. A professional pest control company can guide you through what to do — and what not to do — when trying to avoid an infestation. If one is present, they can help you take appropriate steps to remove it and make sure it doesn’t come right back.
Removing rodents from your home can be an arduous task. They’re great at hiding, and there are typically more around than you think. Command Pest Control, a veteran-owned company with a 20-year history of exceptional service, is here to help. We offer rodent control in Pompano Beach and surrounding areas. Call us at 954-943-0008 or contact us online to schedule a free inspection.
