subject: Got Rodents? Stop Hacking at the Leaves [print this page] Got Rodents? Stop Hacking at the Leaves Got Rodents? Stop Hacking at the Leaves
Anthony J. D'Angelo once said, "When solving problems, dig at the roots instead of just hacking at the leaves."
Just as much as with any household issue, the aforementioned quote rings true with a rodent infestation. When deciding on rodent control methods, most homeowners weigh the pros and cons of traps, glue boards, poisons or live pets. What they fail to realize is that they are just "hacking at the leaves".
What's the root of the problem?
Under most circumstances, the root cause of a rodent infestation is accessibility. While conventional methods of control may bring temporary relief, there is a high probability rodents will return at the first sign of inclement weather. To get full control of the infestation, you must "rodent proof" your home.
Rodent proofing (also called exclusionary work) is a process that eliminates all rodent entry points. These points include, but are not limited to, small exterior cracks or openings, power lines, cable wires, plumbing pipes, and overhanging tree limbs. As it takes only inch opening for mice to enter your home, it's easy to understand how tedious this exclusion process can be.
The good exclusion process starts with a thorough inspection. Look for rub marks, droppings, tracking, and signs of gnawing. Special attention should be paid to the common rodent entry points listed below:
Entry Doors
Garage Doors
Chimneys
Dryer vents
Power lines
Roof vents
Plumbing pipes
Electrical conduit
Cracks in Foundation
Warped Siding
Once all access points have been discovered, the size of the openings must be reduced to prevent rodent entry. The application methods and proper material selection reach far beyond this article, but it's important to note that the nature and size of the openings largely dictate which type of materials should be used in the process.
