Customer LoginWhy Do Mice and Rats Seek Shelter in Your Home During Fall? And How to Keep Them Out
Ah, fall—a time of changing leaves, cozy sweaters, and…rodent roommates? Those little critters known as mice and rats are gearing up for their winter vacation, and they’ve got their eyes set on your cozy abode.
Why are rodents so active in the fall?As the temperatures begin to drop, the survival instincts of rats and mice kick into high gear. They’re on a mission to find warmth and sustenance to ride out the winter chill. And guess where they find both in abundance? Yep, your home.
During late summer and early fall, these tiny invaders start scouting for points of entry, and they’re remarkably adept at exploiting even the tiniest gaps. Whether it’s the aroma of food or the heat seeping through cracks, rodents are like detectives, following every clue to their cozy hideaway.
Why are rodents not just a messy nuisance, but a danger too?
Sure, the sight of chewed food packaging and scattered debris might make you sigh in frustration, but there’s more to this than meets the eye. Mice and rats aren’t just messy; they can be outright dangerous. These little creatures have a knack for gnawing on anything they can sink their teeth into. Unfortunately, that includes electrical wires. Yes, you read that right.
Exposed wiring can spark and cause electrical fires, endangering your home and loved ones. With about 3% of their day dedicated to gnawing on objects, rodents aren’t just building nests, they’re building potential disaster zones.
How you can prevent rodents from invading your home.
Rodent-proofing your home becomes a top priority when you realize the extent of their abilities. Start by installing door sweeps and sealing any cracks with caulk. Regularly replace window weatherproofing and ensure proper window alignment. Pay close attention to areas where utility lines enter your home, sealing off these potential entry points.
Don’t forget the garage—it’s not just a parking spot for your car but a potential rat haven. Keep your basement and attic clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and address any plumbing leaks promptly. Opt for airtight storage for pantry items, maintain cleanliness in food preparation areas, and keep an eye out for crumbs. Even that stack of firewood needs to be at least 20 feet away from your home, as rodents can easily hitch a ride on unsuspecting firewood.
Leave it to the professionals.
If you’re facing a particularly persistent problem, it’s always a wise move to enlist the help of the pros. At A1 Exterminators, we’ve got the expertise to evict these unwelcome guests and make sure they don’t come back for a repeat stay.
Now, with our smart-app-enabled Sentinel System, you can control rodents above and below ground from your phone. Learn more about our new, eco-friendly and humane rodent solution here.
This fall, let’s show these rodents they’re not welcome—because a warm and cozy home is meant for you, not them! Contact A1 Exterminators here to get rodent-free.