Tips to Keep Pests Out of Your Attic

Are you wondering how to keep rodents out of the attic? If you are dealing with a pest issue in your attic, you should act quickly to avoid damage to your insulation, ductwork, and many other things that are exposed that rodents can chew on. Read on to learn steps you can take to keep your attic pest free.

Ways to Keep Your Attic Rodent-Free

If you are wondering what to do if pests are damaging attic insulation, it is important that you take several steps to prevent further damage from occurring. These tips will ensure that your attic remains pest-free.

Reach Out to a Pest Control Company

It will only be a temporary solution if you throw down some poisons and traps on your own. If you are dealing with a true infestation, your best bet is to contact a professional exterminator. Professional exterminators will take care of the problem and disinfect your attic as well. They can also provide you with some ways you can keep your attic rodent-free in the future.

Make Sure Cracks Are Sealed

The best way to prevent pests from entering your attic is to take away their entryways. Pests can enter your home even through the smallest cracks, so never think that a hole is too small for a rodent. They can also chew their way through caulk. To seal holes and cracks, you should use a combination of wire mesh, steel wool, and chicken wire. Since rodents hate the feeling of biting on metal, they will avoid attempting to chew through them. Any and all cracks and holes should be sealed. You should check for holes and cracks underneath crawl spaces, in your chimney, on the roof, around your HVAC system, and around any windows and doors.

Use Storage Containers

Rodents enjoy being able to chew through things. If you have things stored in your attic, be sure to use containers that are rodent-proof and that have snap lids. You should avoid using cardboard boxes since rodents love them to nest in. You should inspect your attic at least twice every year.

Avoid Keeping Perishable Items in the Attic

Never keep perishable food items in your attic. Instead, keep them in your kitchen or a location you access a lot. This will prevent pests from chewing on the packaging. If they do, you will notice it right away and it can prevent further problems.

Maintain Your Landscape

Your landscape should be unattractive to pests. By doing so, you will make pests unlikely to nest in your bushes, trees, etc. There are several things you can do for your landscaping including:

  • Trim trees and bushes to limit pest access.
  • Don’t leave compost bins close to your front door.
  • Plant a lot of pest-repelling plants to keep mice and rats away from your lawn. Some good plants to consider are lavender, peppermint, onions, bay, and anything else that produces strong smells.