Rodents are small. They can fit through amazingly small spaces. In fact, a mouse can fit through a hole the size of a dime, while some rats can fit through holes the size of a quarter. These small pests will invade your home if given the opportunity, so the best way to keep them out is to make your home less inviting.

Rodent-Proofing Your Home

The first step in rodent-proofing your home is an inspection. Walk around the perimeter of your home, looking for small spaces rodents may use to gain access into your home. This can include cracks in your foundation, eaves, and windows.

Seal Entry Points

After taking note of potential entry points, properly seal them. Apply a silicone-based caulk on your siding and where utilities meet your home. If you have a chimney, consider installing a chimney cap. Rats are skilled climbers, they’ve even been known to scale walls! Also, apply weather stripping along your window sills and door sweeps on your exterior doors.

Properly Trim Trees

As mentioned above, rats are skilled climbers, especially Roof Rats which are common in the Pacific Northwest. If you have trees near your home, you’ll want to ensure the branches are at least 5 feet away. Oftentimes rats will leap from branches onto the walls or roof of a home. And if they fall, they’ll just try again. Rats can survive falls up to 50 feet.

Trim Back Landscaping

In addition to trimming trees, you’ll also want to prune any shrubs or bushes you have near your home, especially near the doorway. Rats and mice use vegetation as harborages.

Maintain Cleanliness

Food scraps, crumbs, and water are attractants to rodents and other pests. Regularly wipe down counters, and sweep and mop floors to help make your home less inviting to these pests. And never leave pet food out all day, even if it’s outside.

Eliminate Debris

Rats and mice are attracted to debris, from rock piles and woodpiles to abandoned equipment and straw. Clean up any debris on your property and store your firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.

Properly Seal Trash Cans

Your outdoor trash cans will attract rodents and other pests, especially . Make sure your trash can lids are properly sealed and clean them regularly to help deter these pests. If you can, you may also want to store them out and away from your home.