Winter in the Granite City, IL area always has a drop in temperatures. This colder weather allows us to enjoy the warmth of our homes or apartments. However, rodents have the same idea during the winter season. There is a possibility that you may encounter a few of these pests looking for food and shelter in your home. However, using some of the tips we mention below, you can ensure that your home is rodent proof this winter season.
Get Rid of Clutter to Ensure Your Home is Rodent Proof
One of the things that you should know about rodents is that they love to hide and burrow. If you have an attic, garage, or basement that is used as a storage space, you may have created the perfect hiding spots for these pests to nest. Make sure that old clothes, fabrics, old boxes, and even piles of paper are cleared away. Also, try to store items as high off the ground as you can.
Besides inside clutter, outside clutter can also be a perfect spot for rodents to nest. This includes piles of fallen leaves and overgrown bushes. Even though most homeowners in the Granite City, IL area may think that the outdoor mess doesn’t affect rodents coming into your home, unfortunately, they are wrong. Having messes outside of the home actually can attract the mice to live right outside of your home, which can get them inside of it easier. Make sure you are continuing to landscape and do some outdoor maintenance even during the winter months.
Seal All Points of Entry into Your Home
Did you know that mice can fit into gaps as small as a dime, while rats can fit into nickel-sized gaps. Most rodents are flexible and can fit into almost any gap or hole that can be found around your Granite City, IL home. To ensure your home is rodent-free, make sure you inspect your home for gaps that are larger than 1/4 of an inch. Check areas around your home’s foundation, walls, windows, doors, and even roof. To seal any of these gaps use sealants like caulk, concrete, wire mesh, foam, and even metal siding.
Keep Food Locked Up to Keep Make Your Home Rodent Proof
It is easy to forget about a few fallen crumbs, however, these are a full meal for some rodents. Make sure that you are sweeping your eating areas including your kitchen on a regular basis. If you have young children, make sure that their snacks are not lying around, and clean up any food mess that they make. For added protection, make sure your pantry food is properly stored in sealed containers.
If you believe that you already have a rodent problem, or have questions, make sure to contact our team at IMEL Pest Control today!
