Rodents crave a warm and secure space to rest between scavenging sessions, and colder weather pushes many of them into homes across the United States. The risk of a squirrel infestation is heightened when living in a two-story home. Taking measures to remove attractants can help, but rodents have more entry points to access.
Knowing your options for quelling squirrel and rat infestations can give you the advantage you need to protect your family and property. You can begin taking active measures to prevent unwanted roommates from spreading bacteria in your house.
Take control of your living space by learning the tips to keep rodents outside. Continue reading to prevent rodent infestations today!
Replace Your Vents
Vents are easy access points for squirrels and rats seeking a new, cozy home. Check the gable and roof vents if you suspect an infestation is taking root in your house.
A good rule of thumb is to replace any old or damaged vents. Look for ways to seal entry points through these vents while allowing air to flow in and out. The airflow will prevent mold and other potential health issues.
Choose a durable seal that will withstand the test of time and the determination of rodents seeking warmth. Squirrels and rats will make short work of soft vent covers.
Get Rid of Bird Feeders
Feeding birds and watching them from your window is a lovely and relaxing pastime. It also encourages hungry rodents to flock to your home for a quick and easy meal.
As sad as it may be, removing bird feeders from your home’s exterior can help prevent a squirrel or rat infestation in your two-story home. Even if the squirrels don’t touch your bird feeders, birds will likely throw feed around, attracting rodents.
The feeders act as stepping stones for squirrels and rats seeking a new home. They will encourage them to find a way into your home and spread the infestation. Taking steps to remove attractants will do wonders for pest control.
Seal Entry Points
Sealing the entry points into your two-story home is a fantastic way to protect your family from a rodent infestation. Walk around the house’s exterior to look for any access points rodents may use to enter.
The next step is to seal those entry points to keep squirrels and rats on the outside looking in. Cracks and crevices can be sealed using foam or with steel wool. Squirrels and rats will struggle to chew through the steel wool you install in these entry points.
Tiny holes and gaps are other areas that act as threats for rodents to enter. It’s best to seal these entry points with a proactive approach to prevent unwanted guests.
Clean Your Home
Unclean living conditions will likely attract squirrels and rats to your two-story house. One of the easiest ways to prevent an infestation is by starting a cleaning routine.
Clean up messes and sweep up crumbs from cooking or snacking. Leaving them overnight will allow the infestation to thrive.
Pay extra attention to hard-to-reach areas where crumbs and food material can accumulate. Areas under the stove, pantry, and dishwasher are hotspots for rodents seeking a tasty dinner while you’re asleep.
Secure any birdseed and grass seeds in durable tubs if you plan on storing them in the garage or attic. The hard barrier will prevent squirrels and rats from accessing the food source, and proper sanitation can act as a deterrent to push them elsewhere.
Inspect Your Garage
The garage is the most challenging place to detect signs of a rat or squirrel infestation. Most garages are messy, providing plentiful spaces where these rodents can establish a nest.
Cracks in the foundation, broken vents and windows, and gaps under the garage door are perfect entry points for rodents to enter your house. Look for rat or squirrel droppings in your garage and attic. These droppings are a telltale sign of an infestation brewing.
Seal any entry points with foam or steel wool. It’s also worthwhile to check the roof, replace any shingles, or patch any developing holes. Work with a local rodent control and roofing company to remove the pests and seal entry points.
Cover Your Gutters
Gutters are another weak area that allows squirrel and rat infestations to enter a two-story home. Cover your gutters and replace any broken shingles to make entry more challenging for your rodent neighbors.
Doing so can close gaps that rats and squirrels can exploit to enter your home or attic and create a thriving community. Check your gutters before autumn to make repairs and keep the rodents out. Pair your new gutter covers with chimney caps to provide an extra layer of defense.
Clean Your Yard
Outdoor food sources are an enticing feast for rats and squirrels. Composting can benefit the environment, but it’s best to keep the piles away from your home’s exterior walls.
Move or remove piles of leaves, debris, and compost to reduce the appeal of your home for squirrels and rats. They’re more likely to look elsewhere when seeking their next seasonal home.
Create an Inspection Routine
Creating an inspection and maintenance schedule is the best way to protect your two-story home from squirrels and rats. Take time each month to walk around your home to look for any new cracks or entry points to deal with.
If you’re concerned about sharing your house with rodents, a pest control service can help you identify hot spots to watch. It’s best to be proactive with your routine. You can also adopt a cat or dog to assist with pest detection.
Protect Your Two-Story Home From Rodents Today
Rodents like rats and squirrels are a significant threat to your two-story home, and knowing how to outwit them starts with using expert guidance to identify and seal entry points. You can also eliminate food sources like bird feeders and compost piles. Inspect your roof’s vents and gutters to identify hot spots and prevent squirrel and rat infestations.
Your health is a priceless commodity, and improving sanitary conditions by eliminating pest infestations creates a healthy space for your family to thrive. Explore our Health content for the tips and tricks to boost your health today!
