The fall season can bring many joys, such as changing leaves and the return of pumpkin-flavored everything, but with the more temperate weather comes little animals that invade your home to keep themselves warm. When they don’t find a nice warm place to stay, they have no choice but to sneak inside your house to get cozy, which can become very annoying very quickly if they choose your home and not someone else’s! Here are some ways you can keep these little critters out of your house this fall, so you can spend less time dealing with them and more time enjoying the season!
How do squirrels get into the attic?
Squirrels are most commonly seen during the winter months, looking for food. They will chew holes in the roof or walls of your home to get inside, but they can also enter through vents. You might find droppings inside the attic and see evidence that a squirrel has been living there for some time. If you have any gaps where wires, pipes, or ducts are entering your home, it is easy for them to get in.
How do rodents move inside walls?
Mice and rats can squeeze through holes as small as 1/4 inch, so they're often able to get inside the house. To keep these critters out of your house, seal up any holes or gaps that are larger than 1/4 inch with steel wool, electrical tape, caulk, or hardware cloth. You should also make sure to keep food sealed in tightly covered containers.
How do raccoons enter homes?
Raccoons are one of the most common animals that sneak into homes. They can easily find a way in through an unsecured pet door, open window or screened porch. If you have fruit trees on your property, it is likely that raccoons are making their homes in the tree branches and will eat the fruit to get them closer to your house. They are also known for raiding garbage cans, so make sure to keep them locked up tight or have a covered can out back.
When is it time to call the experts?
While you may be able to handle the occasional critter in your home, it is important to call the experts immediately. Not only are these animals more difficult to get rid of, but they can also cause extensive damage to your home. They might chew through walls and wires, which can lead to dangerous situations. They will eat anything from garbage and animal feed to plants and food stored in your pantry, so keeping them out of your house as soon as you notice the presence of these critters is essential for preventing a costly pest problem.
How to prevent them?
Look for evidence of animals in your home, such as feces or nests.
Seal any holes that might allow them to get inside.
Clear brush and tall grass near your house.
Do not leave pet food outside overnight.
Keep your garbage cans tightly closed and secured, preferably in a shed with a tight-fitting lid that locks so they cannot push their way through the opening at the top of the can.
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