The homeowners of Florida often brawl over rodent infestation. It is because of the warm and humid environment of the country. For pest control in Broward, the homeowners must take preventive measures.
Rodent Infestation
Rodent infestations should be controlled as soon as a mouse or rat is found around the house. In Florida, two major species are most likely to be observed to invade homes – house mice and Norway rats. These pests pose a significant threat to humans as they contaminate food and spread diseases.
House mice are a common intruder in Broward. They seek shelter, warmth, and food for their livelihood and enter houses. Mice can survive in extreme environments and nest in dark spots found inside walls, attics, and basements.
On the other hand, Norway rats are huger in size and destruction than house mice. These rodents invade houses to find materials to build their shelter. They burrow themselves inside the foundation of a building and cause structural damage. They can chew on electrical wires and can be the cause of fire hazards.
Indication of Rodent Infestation
One of the most common indicators of rodent infestation inside a house is the presence of droppings and musky odor. Droppings can be observed around their shelter, i.e., attics and basement, and around food storage areas like kitchen and pantry.
Rats gnaw on various surfaces to chew on things and file their teeth. Scratching or scurrying sounds can be heard from the walls and ceiling when rats are present in the house. They are found to leave dark and greasy marks to make other rodents follow their path.
Preventive Measures
Homeowners should be proactive in pest control as they reside in Broward. They should take preventive measures to make their homes rodent-free in the thriving pest-friendly climate of the country.
- Apply Seal and Fix Leaks
It is crucial to seal all the entry points, such as cracks, holes, or gaps, especially around doors, windows, and pipes. Professional pest control service providers use steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to seal these openings.
A damp environment attracts rodents, and they invade the house in search of a favorable place to reside. Leaky faucets, pipes, and roof leakages should be immediately addressed in order to make the house rodent-free.
- Cleanliness is Godliness
Homeowners should ensure clean and sanitized houses for their well-being. Regular cleaning and decluttering of garbage will reduce the chances of pest infestation to a huge extent. Attics and basements should be free of clutter, and storage areas should be moved once in a while to avoid uncleaned areas.
The kitchen and pantry area should be cleaned every day, and food sources should always be kept covered. Rodents can leave the house if they are not able to find food lying around the floors. Additionally, rodents contaminate food and become the underlying cause of harmful infections.
Pest Control Methods to Restraint Rodents
The house owners can use natural rodent repellants like peppermint oil. It is a potent home remedy to deter mice and rats. The oil can be sprayed regularly on the possible entry points and dark places inside the house.
Rodents can also hide behind bushes and shrubs. Therefore, the plantations of garden and lawn areas must be trimmed regularly. Plants should be kept a few feet away from the walls of the house. It reduces the chances of rats and mics sneaking into the house.
The best way a homeowner can prevent rodents from entering the house is by blocking all the entry points, discarding garbage regularly, and covering food sources to prevent contamination. And if the infestation has spread beyond control, professional help must be taken without delay.
