7 Ways to Keep Your Bay Area Home Rodent-Free
As winter settles over the Bay Area, rodents such as mice and rats start looking for warm places to nest—and your cozy home may be at the top of their list. Fortunately, with a few preventative measures and regular maintenance, you can keep these unwelcome guests out. At CalPro Pest Control, we’re here to share seven expert tips to help you maintain a rodent-free home this winter.
1. Seal Entry Points
Rodents can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, some as tiny as a dime. Inspect your home’s exterior for potential entry points, including cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, and spaces around utility pipes. Seal these openings with materials like steel wool, caulk, or weather stripping to block their access.
2. Store Food Properly
Rodents are often drawn indoors by the smell of food. To prevent them from finding a feast, store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Don’t forget to clean up crumbs and spills immediately, especially in high-traffic areas like the kitchen and pantry.
3. Eliminate Clutter
Rodents thrive in cluttered environments where they can hide and build nests. Keep storage areas tidy by organizing items in sealed bins rather than cardboard boxes, which rodents can easily chew through. Regularly declutter your garage, attic, and basement to remove potential nesting sites.
4. Trim Vegetation Near Your Home
Overgrown vegetation provides an easy pathway for rodents to access your home. Trim back tree branches, shrubs, and vines that touch your house, and keep firewood and compost bins at least 20 feet away from your foundation.
5. Keep Trash Secure
Rodents are scavengers and will rummage through your garbage for food. Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids and empty them regularly. Avoid leaving trash bags outdoors, as they’re an easy target for hungry rodents.
6. Fix Leaks and Reduce Moisture
Water is just as important to rodents as food. Repair any leaky pipes, faucets, or roofs, and address areas with poor drainage around your property. Using a dehumidifier in damp spaces like basements or crawl spaces can also help deter rodents.
7. Work with a Professional Pest Control Service
Despite your best efforts, rodents can sometimes find their way inside. If you notice signs of rodent activity—such as droppings, gnawed materials, or scratching noises in the walls—contact a professional pest control service like CalPro Pest Control. We provide customized, effective solutions to eliminate infestations and prevent them from recurring.
Don’t let rodents ruin your peace of mind this winter. By taking these proactive steps, you can safeguard your Bay Area home from infestations. And if you need expert help, CalPro Pest Control is just a call away. Contact us today at (916) 245-2899 to schedule an inspection or to learn more about our rodent control services. Stay cozy and rodent-free this season!