Rodent Control 101: Identifying Signs of Infestation and Entry Points

Rodents, particularly mice, are notorious for finding small entry points into homes, causing not only discomfort but potential damage and health risks. Understanding where to look for signs of infestation and knowing the most common entry points can help homeowners take proactive measures and safeguard their homes.

Mice can easily find their way through a hole the size of a dime.

Common Entry Points for Rodents:

1. Garage Doors: Check the bottom seals of garage doors regularly. Rodents often chew through worn or damaged rubber seals to gain access.

   
   

   

   The garage is a quiet and a sheltered place, ideal for making a nest.

   
   

2. Air Conditioning Lines and Utility Lines: Inspect around exterior pipes and wiring. Rodents can squeeze through incredibly small gaps or openings and will enlarge existing holes by gnawing.

   
   

   

   Drain, AC, and gas line cutouts provide easy access into your home.

   
   
   
   

3. Siding and Wall Openings: Look for areas of rotting, cracked, or separated siding. Small openings around vents or where pipes enter the home are especially vulnerable.

   
   
   
   

   

   Damaged or rotten siding are easy entry points for rodents.

   
   

4. Door Frames: Check beneath and around door frames, especially basement or back doors, as gaps or weakened wood can provide easy entry.

   
   

   

   Look for damaged door frames and water damage.

   
   
   
   
   
   

Where to Spot Signs of Rodent Activity:

• Garages and Basements: Look for droppings and nesting materials (shredded paper, insulation, or fabric) in corners or beneath cluttered items.

• Kitchen Areas: Mice are commonly found behind or underneath appliances like stoves or refrigerators. Droppings in these areas indicate recent activity.

• Attics and Crawlspaces: Rodents prefer quiet, undisturbed areas. Regular inspections in these spaces are crucial. Check for droppings, gnawed wiring, or insulation damage.

• Cluttered Areas: Both inside and outside your home, rodents thrive in cluttered areas. Regularly organizing and lifting stored items at least six inches off the floor helps deter rodents and makes detection easier.

Practical Recommendations for Preventing Rodent Problems:

1. Regular Inspections: Conduct thorough inspections of your home at least twice a year—ideally before winter starts and again in the spring. Look closely for signs of structural damage or entry points needing repair.

2. Reduce Clutter: Keep storage spaces tidy, especially in garages and basements. Elevated storage (six inches or more) using shelving systems can discourage rodent harborage.

3. Safe Cleaning Practices:

   • Never sweep or vacuum rodent droppings directly, as this can release harmful particles into the air.

   • Always wear a dust mask or respirator and gloves when cleaning up droppings.

   • Moisten droppings with a disinfectant spray or a mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) before wiping up with disposable paper towels.

4. Structural Repairs: Promptly address any damaged siding, door seals, or other entry points to secure your home against rodent entry.

   
   

What to do next:

Proactive inspections and preventive maintenance are the best strategies against rodent problems. By knowing what to look for and maintaining vigilance, you can protect your family and your home from the risks associated with rodent infestations.

For further assistance or a comprehensive inspection, contact RESOLVE Pest Control—we're always here to help keep your home safe and rodent-free!