Older homes are full of unique architectural details which are not commonly found in newer homes. However, the same things that make older homes more charming make them more susceptible to pests. Rodents tend to infest older homes more than modern ones. Older homes also attract termites, carpenter ants, birds, and wildlife.
If you stay in a classic house or are thinking of buying one, you should know what problems you might have to deal with. All the systems in an old home are outdated, and mice and rats make their way inside more easily. It is important to understand why these critters are attracted to your house to eliminate the problem. For immediate assistance, reach out to a service specializing in O’Fallon Pest Control today.
Rodents are intelligent beings
If you are living in one or considering buying an older house, dealing with rodents can become a task. The thing is, rodents have become smarter with time. Since the house was built ages ago, the rodents in the area have become accustomed to the places from where they can get easy access to the property.
That is why setting traps and baits do not always work in this situation. They have been going in and out of these houses for a long time now and won’t easily be fooled. They know to be careful when they see an unfamiliar object. Attempting to solve the problem on your own can become challenging.
So, what should you do?
Your local hardware store has all sorts of things–traps, baits, sprays, rat poison, etc. However, it is pretty hard to say how well these would work. It is best to call for professional help and get an exterminator at the first signs of rodent infestation. Not only will it get rid of the ones already inside, but it will prevent any similar future occurrences.
A trained and qualified exterminator can take a look at your old house and tell you where they might be coming from. They will effectively seal all the entry points. This means that you only have to solve the problem once instead of going back to the store to get some more rat poison every month.
Reasons for rodents to infest old homes
Rodents, indeed, like to stay in their natural habitat. However, desperate times call for desperate measures. They will seek other places if they do not get food, shelter, or warmth outside. Here are some reasons why rodents infest old homes:
- It is cold outside.
- There have been heat waves/droughts.
- Land development.
- Lack of resources outside.
- Natural disasters.
- Ample food and water inside.
Tips to keep rodents away from your house.
Rodent infestation can be prevented by following various precautions and measures. Here are a few tips to follow:
- Ensure to seal all the holes in your house that can serve as an entry point for rodents. You can use foam, spray, steel wool, etc., to seal the holes.
- If the holes are larger, you can seal them with cement, metal sheeting, lath screen, and more.
- Clean your kitchen properly and follow proper hygiene.
- Throw unwanted food items.
- Make sure to speak to a pest control service to help you get rid of rodents.
