Rodents in Your Attic? Here’s How to Keep Them Out

Rodents in Your Attic? Here’s How to Keep Them Out

Dealing with rodents in your attic can be a frustrating and concerning issue for homeowners. Not only can rodents cause damage to your property and belongings, but they can also pose health risks to you and your family. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep rodents out of your attic and protect your home.

Seal Entry Points

One of the most crucial steps in keeping rodents out of your attic is to seal all possible entry points. Mice and rats can squeeze through small gaps and holes, so carefully inspect your attic for any cracks, gaps, or holes in the walls, roof, and foundation.

Use caulk, steel wool, or wire mesh to seal these entry points and prevent rodents from gaining access to your attic. Remember to pay close attention to areas where utility lines, vents, and pipes enter your attic, as these are common entry points for rodents.

Keep Attic Clean and Organized

Cluttered and messy attics provide ideal hiding spots for rodents. To discourage them from making your attic their home, keep it clean and organized. Regularly declutter and remove any unnecessary items such as old boxes, papers, and debris. Be sure to keep an eye out for any droppings on your insulation.

Store items in sealed plastic containers to prevent rodents from nesting in them. Keeping your attic clean and well-organized will make it less appealing for rodents to settle in and discourage them from staying.

Cut Off Food Sources

Rodents are opportunistic feeders, and a readily available food source can attract them to your attic. Make sure to remove all potential food sources, including pet food, birdseed, and garbage, from your attic. Keep all food stored in airtight containers, and do not leave food out overnight. By eliminating access to food, you will reduce the incentive for rodents to enter your attic.

Trim Trees and Shrubs

Overhanging trees and shrubs can provide rodents with easy access to your attic. Trim back any branches that are touching or near your roof to prevent rodents from using them as a bridge to gain entry. Keep your landscaping well-maintained and ensure that there is no vegetation touching your home’s exterior to create a barrier that rodents cannot easily traverse.

Install Rodent-Proof Screens and Covers

Another effective way to keep rodents out of your attic is by installing rodent-proof screens and covers. Use mesh screens with small openings to cover vents and openings in your attic, including roof vents, gable vents, and soffit vents. Install chimney caps and wire mesh covers to prevent rodents from entering through chimneys and other openings. These screens and covers act as physical barriers that prevent rodents from entering your attic while still allowing proper ventilation.

Use Traps and Baits

Traps and baits can be effective in catching rodents that have already entered your attic. Use snap traps, glue traps, or live traps to capture rodents. Place them in areas where rodents are known to travel, such as along walls, near entry points, or in dark corners of your attic. If using baits, follow all safety instructions and place them in secured bait stations to prevent accidental poisoning of pets or children.

Natural Remedies for Rodent Control 

There are a few non-toxic, natural DIY solutions you can try to make at home to deter rodents from your attic. Although these methods may not be as effective as professional rodent control, they can be used as a tactic to reduce or limit rodent infestations. Here are a few natural remedies to help keep rodents out of your attic: 

• Peppermint Oil: Rodents dislike the smell of peppermint oil. Try soaking cotton balls in peppermint oil and placing them in attic corners or holes where rodents are active or likely to enter your home. 
• Ultrasonic Repellent Devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to rodents but are generally inaudible to humans. Place them in your attic to deter rodents from inhabiting these spaces. 
• Cayenne pepper or garlic and onions: Similar to peppermint oil, rodents don’t like the strong scent of garlic and onions or the spicy scent of cayenne pepper or chili powder. Placing these items in your attic near possible rodent entry points or activity sites can help deter and keep away rodents.

The best way to handle rodent control is by calling in the professionals. Our professionals have the proper gear and products to effectively remove rodents and keep them out for good. Our wildlife removal and prevention process only uses products and methods safe for you, your family, and your home. You can trust our experts at Critter Control of San Jose, we have years to back up our work! 

Call Critter Control of San Jose Today

If you are dealing with a persistent rodent problem in your attic despite your best efforts, it may be time to seek professional help. The experts at Critter Control of San Jose have the knowledge and expertise to identify entry points, set up traps and baits, and implement effective rodent control strategies. We can also provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure that your attic remains rodent-free. Give us a call today for a free phone estimate. 408.516.5681