Tips to prepare your home for fall rodents

As fall weather begins to roll in, rodents start seeking warm places to escape the cold. To help prevent them from choosing your home as their new residence, taking proactive measures is essential. The following fall pest control tips can help prevent rodents from entering your home, but for complete rodent control, professional help is best. 

Ehrlich technicians inspect for signs like droppings and gnawing to effectively manage infestations. Exclusion measures are also crucial, as they can significantly reduce rats and mice in the fall by blocking access points. Contact us today to schedule your inspection!

Why rodents enter your home in the fall

Rodents like mice and rats become more active in the fall as they search for warmth and shelter. This shift in behavior is driven by their instinct to find a safe, insulated environment to survive the dropping temperatures and diminishing resources outside. During this time, rodents are also busy foraging for food and scouting potential nesting sites.

While rodents can invade homes at any time of the year, their activity tends to increase in fall due to their heightened need for warmth and food. This seasonal change in behavior can also help homeowners spot signs of infestations early on.

Signs rodents are in your house

Recognizing the signs of a rodent infestation can help you identify infestations earlier and prevent them from worsening. Common signs include:

1. Droppings: Small, dark, and pellet-shaped droppings found in areas where rodents are active, such as along walls or near food sources.
2. Gnaw marks: Scratches or chew marks on food packaging, wood, wires, or furniture, indicating rodent activity.
3. Noises: Scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds, especially at night when rodents are most active.
4. Odors: A musty or ammonia-like smell in areas where rodents have been active, often due to droppings and urine.

If you suspect you have a rodent infestation, Ehrlich can help. Our technicians will help eliminate rodent infestations that are inside and incorporate integrated pest management approaches to prevent them from returning. 

Tips to help keep mice and rats out of your home

Now you’re probably wondering how to keep rats and mice out of your home. Implementing a few strategic measures can help reduce the risk of rodent infestations. Below are some practical fall pest control tips that can help you protect your home from these unwelcome invaders.

Seal entry points

Mice can fit through openings as small as a dime, and rats can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter. Because of this, it’s crucial to ensure that potential entry points around your home are sealed. Common entry points include:

• Pipes and utility lines: Check for gaps around pipes and utility lines. These can become easy access points for rodents.
• Foundation vents: Inspect for any openings in foundation vents that can provide entry for rodents.
• Doors and windows: Examine these areas for gaps or damaged weather stripping.
• Attic and chimney: Check for gaps or damage around these areas. 
• Cracks in walls and foundations: Look for small cracks or holes in walls and foundations. These cracks can become bigger if rodents gnaw at them to make them larger.

Exclusion is a preventive method used to block rats and mice from entering homes by sealing potential entry points. While homeowners can attempt to do this themselves, it is best if a professional does it as they can thoroughly check your home for any gaps, cracks, or holes where rodents could enter and install the sealant materials properly.

Practice proper food storage

Practicing proper food storage can help prevent mice and rats from invading your home. 

• Eliminate food sources: Use airtight containers to keep food inaccessible.
• Keep food off the floor: Store food on shelves or in cabinets.
• Seal packaging: Ensure all food packages are tightly sealed.
• Properly store pet food: Use airtight containers for pet food, and bring any food that is outdoors inside to help prevent it from attracting rodents.

Tidy the exterior of your home

Keeping the exterior of your home clean can help prevent rodents from hiding or nesting around your home. 

• Trim branches: Keep tree branches and shrubs well-trimmed and away from your home. Rodents can use branches to gain access to your roof or attic.
• Clear debris: Remove piles of leaves, grass clippings, and other debris that can provide shelter for rodents.
• Firewood: Stack firewood away from your home and keep it elevated off the ground to prevent it from becoming a nesting site.
• Garbage: Use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent rodents from accessing trash.
• Food sources: Clean up outdoor pet food, fallen fruits, and any other food sources.

Call professionals for help

Professional pest control services, like those offered by Ehrlich, can significantly enhance your efforts to keep mice and rats away. Our experts conduct thorough inspections to identify rodent entry points, nesting sites, and potential problem areas. We’ll provide tailored treatment plans based on the severity of the infestation and the specific conditions of your property. Call 866-844-7723 to schedule your inspection today!