How to Rodent Proof Your Home

The first line of defense against a rodent infestation is your home itself. The best way to control rodent activity is to deny access to your home or structure. The following are some basic steps you can take to "Rodent Proof" your home.

First, if you currently have an infestation, I recommend calling a professional. If you find signs of rodent activity you must also be very careful how you handle the clean up. Rodent droppings can carry the Hanta Virus; this disease can be very serious and even fatal. You can catch this from breathing the dust from old droppings or rubbing your eyes after coming in contact with the fecal matter. When cleaning, you should wet the area down with hot, soapy water and a disinfectant. Then wipe up with a wet rag or sponge. If you vacuum the droppings always use a vacuum with a heppa filter. I would always were a face or dust mask and gloves while cleaning. Obviously wash up after you are done.

My goal, however, is to help you prevent an infestation by identifying ways a rodent can enter your home. One of the first things you need to know is that if a rodent can get its head through an opening the body will follow. A mouse can get through an opening the size of a dime. Keep that in mind as you survey or inspect your home. First look at the doors; are there gaps around the bottom or sides of the doors? Look for light around the bottom seals. If you see a significant gap, install door seals or sweeps. Have a handy man or door company adjust or replace your door to get a tighter seal.

Next check all pipes or vents that come into your house. Look for gaps where they come through the wall. Look for broken vents or screens and replace as necessary. A good quick fix, if you find any holes or cracks around pipes, is to stuff the openings with steel wool, brass wool, or even window screen will work in a pinch. The rodents will not chew through this material. Also, keep all windows and doors screened and shut whenever possible. Don't forget to check all your vents outside and around the foundation of your home. If you find damage or entry points, hardware cloth works great. You can bend and form it right into place.