.webp?w=3840&q=75)
DANVILLE — Any pest infestation is a problem, but a rat infestation can be particularly unsettling. That’s why it’s wise to take preventative measures to keep rats out of your home. Here are two simple steps:
Keep your roofline clear of vegetation. A common point of entry for rats is the attic, but in order to enter, they have to get up on the roof. Often, they’re able to do this by climbing up tree branches or vines growing adjacent to the home. To cut off this route of access, trim back any vegetation that comes into contact with your roofline. Even if it isn’t quite touching, rats can jump, so don’t take any chances—cut those branches and vines back at least 18 inches.
Seal up exterior breaches. An even easier way for rats to access the home is via gaps and holes in the home exterior. A common example of this is crawl space vents with damaged or missing covers, which allow rats to get into the crawl space and travel undetected to the nearest interior access point. Homeowners are often unaware of such breaches for the simple reason that they don’t take time to regularly inspect their home exteriors. By inspecting your home exterior and sealing up any gaps or holes that you find, you’ll greatly reduce the chances for rats to enter your home.