Rodents can squeeze through extremely small spaces — as small as ¼ inch wide — so if your property has any vulnerable areas (like a small crack), rodents can squeeze their way into your home.
A recent article from realtor.com outlined some of the places in and on your property where rodents may try to make themselves at home and, more importantly, how to prevent them from doing so, including:
- Garage. If your garage door isn’t properly sealed, it can be easy for rodents to squeeze inside and set up shop in a corner or storage box. To keep rodents out, test your door seal. During the daylight hours, turn off all the lights and look at the garage door; if any sunlight peeks through, it’s time to reseal.
- Kitchen pantry. Your pantry is full of food, which is why it tends to attract rodents. To keep rodents out, make sure to seal up any cracks, holes, or entryways into your pantry. Consider keeping food in tightly-sealed containers, which can deter rodents. For example, instead of keeping cereal in a cardboard box—which rodents can easily chew through—consider putting it in a sealed plastic container.
- Attic. Rodents are also attracted to attics, which are full of nesting materials like insulation. Make sure to find and close any entry points to your attic; not only can rodents wreak havoc on your insulation, but they can also chew through electrical wiring, which could present a fire hazard.