Have you ever heard unexplainable noises in your attic late at night? You may not have thought much of it, but the truth is, rodents can cause quite a commotion when they decide to take up residence in your attic. Not only that, but they can also pose a serious threat to your health and safety, as well as the integrity of your home. In this ultimate guide to rodent removal, we will explore everything you need to know about identifying, preventing, and eliminating rodent infestations in your attic. So grab your flashlight, and let’s get started!
What Are Rodents?
Rodents are a group of mammals characterized by their continuously growing incisor teeth. They include various species of rats, mice, squirrels, chipmunks, beavers, porcupines, and many other animals. Rodents are found all over the world and can range in size from tiny mice that can fit in the palm of your hand to large beavers that can weigh over 50 pounds.
Why are Rodents in Your Attic?
Rodents are known for their ability to squeeze through small spaces and climb their way into hard-to-reach areas, making your attic a prime location for them to take up residence. There are several reasons why rodents may be getting into your attic.
Rodents can enter your attic through small holes, gaps, or cracks in your roof or walls. These entry points can be created by damage from severe weather, aging, or poor construction.
Your attic may provide a warm and safe environment for rodents to nest and breed. Also, an attic is usually not an area of the home that is brightly lit. Most attics are damp and shady, and the rodents love that. They are especially attracted to cluttered areas where they can hide and build nests, and insulation provides a comfortable and cozy place for them to do that, especially during colder months when they are seeking warmth.
Regular maintenance and repairs of your roofing system can help deter rodents from making a home in your attic.
How To Identify the Type of Rodent Ruining Your Attic
Most homeowners consider mice and rodents as one and the same, but this is not true. Rodents are a bigger species category that contains several types of pests. As we explained in the introduction, it contains not only mice but other animals too.
Identifying the type of rodent that is causing damage to your attic can help you determine the most effective removal and prevention methods. Here are some tips on how to identify the type of rodent in your attic:
Mice
Mice are small, typically measuring 2-4 inches long, with long tails and pointed snouts. They are usually light brown or gray in color and have large ears and eyes.
Rats
Rats are larger than mice, typically measuring 7-10 inches in length, with long, scaly tails and blunt snouts. Rats are known for their sharp teeth and can cause significant damage to property, including electrical wiring and insulation.
Also read: Are Roof Rats Dangerous (& How To Get Rid Of Them)
Squirrels
Squirrels are bushy-tailed rodents that are commonly found in attics. They are larger than mice and rats, typically measuring 8-12 inches long. Squirrels are known for their acrobatic abilities and can easily climb trees and jump from branch to branch. These are also known to occupy and damage roofs.
Chipmunks
Chipmunks are small, typically ground-dwelling, rodents that are known for their striped backs and cheeks. They are typically smaller than the other rodents on the list and are known to have long, bushy tails
Top Tips You Can Follow for Rodent Removal From an Attic
Rodents may be of different shapes and sizes, but their mannerisms are quite similar to each other. Below are some tips on how to remove rodents from an attic.
Identify the Points of Entry
Start by identifying the points of entry that rodents are using to gain access to your attic. Look for small holes, gaps, or cracks in your walls, roof, and foundation, and seal them off to prevent rodents from entering.
Use Traps
Traps can be an effective way to catch and remove rodents from your attic. You can use snap traps or live traps, depending on your preference. Be sure to place traps in areas where rodents are likely to travel, such as along walls and near entry points.
Air Leaks
Air sealing your home is an important step in preventing rodent infestations in your attic. This involves sealing off any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior that allows rodents to enter. In addition to preventing the entrance of rodents, air sealing can also improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality by reducing drafts and air leaks.
Install New Insulation
When there is talk about your home’s attic, you can’t leave out the roof and insulation from the discussion. A properly insulated attic will help your property become more comfortable and energy efficient.
If rodents have nested in your attic insulation, it may be necessary to replace the insulation to fully address the problem. This is because rodents can contaminate the insulation of your home.
Fiberglass insulation is a popular choice because it’s affordable and easy to install, but it’s not the best option if you’re looking for maximum energy efficiency. Other options, such as spray foam insulation, may provide better energy efficiency.
If you’re not comfortable handling insulation installation yourself, it’s best to consult with a professional contractor. They can help you choose the right type of insulation for your needs and install it as well.
Clean and Sanitize
Once the rodents have been removed, it’s important to clean and sanitize your attic to remove any remaining droppings, urine, and other contaminants. Use protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, when cleaning to avoid exposure to potential health hazards. Sanitizing is not only good for the attic but also goes a long way in keeping your home free from pests.
Call a Professional
In most cases, DIY pest control is not recommended. If your rodent infestation is severe, or if you’re not comfortable handling the removal yourself, consider calling a professional pest control service. They can provide effective and safe removal solutions that will help get rid of rodents and prevent them from coming back.
How Jamison Pest and Lawn Control Can Help You
We hope this blog post has helped you understand a little more about rodent removal, and how ridding these rodents quickly helps protect your roof and attic. If you’re struggling with rodent removal, take care of the problem immediately by contacting the team at Jamison Pest and Lawn for attic rodent removal services.
We are the best rodent control service provider in Cordova and the surrounding areas of Tennessee. With over 77 years of combined experience in the industry, we are equipped with the tools and knowledge to do the job well.
At Jamison Pest and Lawn, our team of trained technicians is equipped to handle any pest infestation your home may have. We use advanced technology, and our certified professionals provide effective solutions to eliminate rodent and pest problems.
Contact us today at (901) 452-1505 to schedule an appointment with us and take the first step in attic rodent control.
