How Professionals Handle Rodent Removal and Prevention
Almost any type of rodent is capable of causing problems in and around the home. Rodents carry harmful pathogens that can be transferred to humans through contaminated food, pet foods, and feces. A professional pest control expert can identify what kind of problem you are dealing with and offer the right solutions to eliminate the rodents and keep your space clean and rodent-free.
Detecting the Infestation
Professionals thoroughly understand rodent infestations and can identify them by visual inspection. They are also trained in using traps and live bait to eliminate them effectively. While you can attempt DIY rodent removal, it is best to call a pest control pro as soon as you suspect you have a problem. Rodents reproduce quickly, and a small infestation can grow into a major one overnight if you ignore it. Aside from the apparent damage that rodents inflict, these pests can also spread diseases and cause health problems for residents. They can contaminate food, linens, clothing, and other household items with their urine and droppings and carry parasites that affect people. To avoid a rodent invasion, trim grass and shrubs and keep wood piles away from your home. Make sure to dispose of all trash and garbage in sturdy containers with tight-fitting lids.
Identifying the Exclusion Points
When pest control technicians handle rodent removal and prevention, they always start by identifying the exclusion points of an infestation. This involves determining where rodents will most likely enter the home and how they get in. These professionals also ensure that any cracks or gaps in the structure are adequately sealed. This ensures that a property is genuinely rodent-proof and that it will be difficult for any pest to access the building. Professionals also know that even the slightest opening can serve as a rodent entry point. Sealing all gaps and holes around doors, windows, utility lines, and more is essential. These professionals will also inspect roofs for any potential entry points. They can look for rafters, roof intersections, torn soffit vents, and more. Then they will use different techniques and materials to seal the holes. These include caulking, steel wool, screening, and hardware cloth. This ensures your home is protected from rodents and their gnawing and nesting activities.
Eliminating the Infestation
Infestations are not only a nuisance and a hassle but also pose serious health risks to the people living in the home. Rodents are known carriers of diseases like hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella. Fortunately, professionals can handle this kind of infestation very carefully. They focus on the root of the problem, eliminating it from the source. Professionals begin by performing a thorough inspection of the home. This can involve looking for any openings that pests may use to enter the house, such as cracks in the walls or windows. Once they discover the entry point, they patch or fill it to prevent the pest from returning. They can also seal any other potential pest entry points, such as loose siding or roof, to keep them from infesting the home again. Once these steps are taken, they can finally eradicate the infestation. They do this with great precision and care, so the house is clean and pest-free in no time!
Cleaning the Infested Areas
Cleaning infested areas is an essential part of rodent removal and prevention. It ensures that traces of rodent defecation are removed and that infectious viruses do not spread to people in the area. Rodents are extremely smart in their hiding places, so they are often found in hard-to-reach areas such as below pipes, behind furniture, and in nooks and crannies that do not get light. When cleaning these spots, wear protective gear and use a disinfectant formula. To clean these areas, professionals usually use a combination of detergents and chemicals to kill any remaining bacteria or viruses. They also disinfect the surfaces and wipe down contaminated items to prevent further disease transmission.