While it’s always best to call an exterminator in Nashvilleexterminator in Nashville, there are some things you can do on your own first to try and rid your home of rodents – or at least prevent them from getting inside in the first place.

Here are some DIY rodent pest control tips to try.

Inspection

First off, it’s important to inspect your home inside and out if you want to have any hope of deterring rodents such as rats and mice. To that end, exclusion is the best way to prevent them from getting inside.

This is why you should:

• Seal all openings greater than ½”
• Seal off access points, such as where utility lines enter the walls and any openings around AC units, drain pipes, and vents.
• Check for broken basement windows, unscreened bents, and warped doors.
• Check spaces beneath doors for openings that are too large. Install door sweeps to close up any gaps.
• Make sure shingles on your roof are intact, with no damaged sheathing. Make sure screens are secured on attic vents, louvered gable vents and soffit vents.
• Look for gaps between the roof deck and fascia, AKA “construction gaps.”

Sanitation

This goes beyond making sure your home is clean. You also need to properly maintain your landscape and regularly remove debris.

This is why you should:

• Eliminate all rubbish piles and refuse.
• Maintain landscaped areas, making sure firewood piles are kept off the ground and away from the house.
• Place tight-fitting covers on garbage containers and dumpsters.
• Remove spilled food from bird feeders regularly.
• Refrain from leaving pet food out longer than necessary.
• Clean up spills and crumbs as they happen.
• Keep dry goods (human and pet food) in sealed bins and containers.

Natural Rodent Repellents

While they don’t always work, they’re certainly worth a try. These natural repellents can be good alternatives to chemicals in the home, in the interest of the health of your family. Natural mouse repellents to try include:

• Lavender, amaryllis, or mint.
• Peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, or cloves.
• Mothballs: These contain naphthalene that can deter mice in strong doses.
• Ammonia: This will mimic the odor of a predator’s urine, keeping them away.

There’s no proof that the above actually work – at least over the long term. Plus, they can carry their own risks to occupants. Take mothballs and ammonia, for example. They can be dangerous for use near kids. And cayenne pepper can cause skin irritation and burning. Amaryllis can be toxic to dogs and cats, and lavender can lead to allergic reactions in pets.

Likewise, if you set out traps to catch mice, these can pose a danger to curious children and pets.

In the end, it’s best just to call the pros in the first place. They know the methods and techniques that have the highest rates of success.

Contact PureGuard Pest For Rednet Treatment

If your DIY attempts at rodent control have been unsuccessful, it’s time to call our Nashville pest control technicians at 615-502-2855. We are trained and experienced in the timely removal of rodents of all kinds, from mice to rats. Get free quote on rodent traetment today