Winter Rodent Prevention Tips for Homeowners in Four Corners

As it gets cold outside, people in Four Corners usually find themselves dealing with rodents seeking shelter and warmth. Preventing these pests from infesting your home during the colder months is important to keeping your home clean, comfortable, and healthy. Thankfully, professional pest control near me can protect your living space from becoming a winter retreat for unwanted guests. Below are steps you can take against rodents during the winter:

Seal Entry Points 

Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime. Rats only need a gap the size of a quarter. That is why you must close up even tiny openings around your home. Start with a detailed inspection of your home’s exterior. Focus on where utilities enter the house, around vents, and the foundation. Also, pay close attention to gaps under doors and around windows.

Use steel wool and caulk to plug small holes. For larger openings, use hardware cloth or metal flashing because rodents cannot chew through these materials. Weather stripping and door sweeps should be checked and replaced if worn. 

Eliminate Clutter and Nesting Materials

Rodents search for nesting materials inside garages, attics, basements, and even under kitchen sinks. They can use paper, fabric, and insulation to create nests. This makes it essential to keep storage areas tidy and use plastic bins with tight lids instead of cardboard boxes. 

Also, you should trim back overgrown vegetation and move woodpiles or compost bins at least 20 feet away from the house. Clear out leaf litter and debris from around the foundation. Rodents thrive where they can hide undisturbed. The fewer hideouts you provide, the less appealing your home becomes.

Cut Off the Food Supply

The smallest crumbs or forgotten pet food can sustain a mouse for days. So, store pantry items in airtight containers made of glass or hard plastic. Do not rely on original packaging as mice can chew through cereal boxes, rice bags, and plastic wrappers.

In addition, you must empty trash regularly and use bins with locking lids. Also, clean under appliances and keep countertops wiped down, especially at night when rodents are most active. Pick up pet bowls after mealtime and avoid leaving water overnight. Remove uneaten food for outdoor animals promptly to avoid drawing rodents near your home.

Inspect Crawl Spaces and Attics

Crawl spaces and attics are particularly vulnerable in winter, offering seclusion and warmth. Inspect these areas for signs of activity such as droppings, gnaw marks, and shredded insulation, Also, look for nests made of paper and fabric.

Make sure vents are covered with mesh screens and that crawl space doors are secure. Ensure the openings in the attic near the roofline are sealed tightly. Motion-sensor lights can be installed around exterior crawl space entrances to deter nighttime invaders. A proactive inspection in early winter can spare you the headache of a spring infestation.

Use Natural Deterrents and Safe Traps

Peppermint oil can act as a natural deterrent as rodents dislike the strong scent. Soak cotton balls and place them in areas where activity is suspected. Cloves, cayenne, and ammonia-based cleaners can have similar effects.

Snap traps are effective and humane for active infestations when checked regularly. Avoid glue traps because they are inhumane and often result in unnecessary suffering. Consider hiring a licensed pest control professional if you are dealing with persistent activity or cannot locate the source. They can identify access points and safely remove rodents without putting your family or pets at risk.

Stay Vigilant Through the Season

Rodent prevention is an ongoing process. Look for signs of gnawing, nesting, or droppings, especially in less-used parts of the house. Addressing issues early prevents a small problem from turning into a full-blown infestation. Winter in Four Corners can be harsh, but your home does not have to be a refuge for pests. You can keep your home safe, clean, and rodent-free all season long with attention to detail and diligence.