Did you know that the problems pests cause can be separated into three categories? We like to call these categories disruption, danger, and destruction. Almost all pests are annoying and therefore fall into the first category. Many pests check two boxes and are both annoying and dangerous or annoying and destructive. There are only a select few pests that check every box. Rodents are one of them. If you are looking for a way to keep these dangerous, damaging, and annoying pests out of your Houston home, use this step-by-step guide.
Understanding Rodents
To prevent rodents, you must first understand what they are and why they want to invade your home. The first thing you should know is the three species of rodents that commonly infest homes in the Houston area are roof rats, Norway rats, and house mice. Of these three furry creatures, Norway rats are the largest at 17” from tail to nose. Roof rats, also known as black rats, are 16”, and house mice are much smaller at 8” max.
Although different in size and appearance, all rodents have a few things in common. For one, they all have sharp front incisor teeth. Rodents use their teeth to chew through wooden walls, plastic guards, vinyl siding, and even aluminum plating. If your home has a weak spot, rodents might try to squeeze or chew their way inside. Once indoors they may also chew through electrical wires and utility piping, which can cause severe problems for homeowners. One thing we should mention is that rats and mice don’t like each other. If you suspect your home has a rodent problem, it is most likely one or the other, never both.
The Dangers Of Rodents
Rodents are one of the most dangerous pests here in the United States. Although they can bite if interacted with, the biggest problem these furry invaders pose is with the diseases they carry. Salmonellosis, hantavirus, and rat-bite fever are just a few examples of the disease threats rodents carry and spread. When cleaning up after a rodent infestation, make sure to use protective gear as the diseases they carry can be spread through their fecal matter and urine. It may be time to call in the professionals at Romney Pest Control!
How Difficult Is It To Prevent Rodents?
When it comes to rodent prevention it is ten times easier to prevent than eliminate. That being said, keeping rodents out of your home requires a fair amount of effort. If you are up for the task, use these prevention tips recommended by our experts:
- Fill in gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior using some steel wool and a caulking gun.
- Repair or replace broken window/door screens.
- Fix any major damages to your home’s exterior.
- Keep your yard well-maintained and clutter-free.
- Trim back bushes and tree branches at least five feet from your home’s exterior.
- Clean up thoroughly after outdoor gatherings.
- Install metal screens over exterior vents and out spouts for gutters.
- Keep your home as clean as possible.
- Store leftover food inside airtight glass, plastic, or metal containers.
- Make sure your indoor and outdoor trash cans have tight-fitting lids.
- Pick up after your pets and clean out their food and water bowls after they finish with them.
For additional help preventing rodents, or if you have a current infestation, look to the experts at Romney Pest Control. Our team only uses the most advanced exclusion and elimination methods when dealing with rodents and would be happy to put their skills to work around your Houston home. Reach out to our team today for more information about our rodent control, or to schedule a quality inspection for your Houston home and property.
