One of the most unnerving things that can happen to a homeowner is finding a rodent in the house. Rodents are not only a nuisance, but they can also be carriers of the disease. For these reasons, it is very important to take action to expel the rodent and make sure that no more rodents enter your home in the future.
Mow the Lawn Regularly
Rodents — especially mice — love an unmowed lawn because it makes them feel safer and freer to roam around your yard. If you mow your lawn every one to two weeks, you should see a significant decrease in rodent activity because they will be scared to cross the yard out in the open.
Clean Up Any Compost Piles
If you keep compost around for your garden, that compost pile could start to attract rodents because it is an ideal habitat for them. One step you can take to keep the rodents as far away from your home as possible is to place the compost pile across the yard from your home. Additionally, instead of piling the compost on the ground, keep it in a plastic container to make it harder for rodents to access.
Dispose of Garden and Yard Waste
After you clip your shrubs, mow your lawn or rake the leaves in your yard, you need to make sure those clippings and leaves are properly disposed of. Otherwise, rodents could make those piles of waste their home. If you do not have a good way to dispose of yard waste, you can at least contain it in a plastic or metal container to keep the rodents out.
Don’t Plant Shrubbery at the Base of Your House
Having shrubbery and landscaping surrounding your home can make it look even more beautiful, but you should be careful. Take care to not plant shrubbery right next to the base of your house if you want to make it harder for rodents to get inside. Maintaining at least a foot of open space (preferably covered in stones) will discourage rodents from crossing the open space and entering your home.
Secure Trash and Recycling Bins
Instead of storing your trash and recycling bins on the grass near your home, place them on concrete to prevent rodents from easily accessing them. Additionally, you should use trash and recycling bins that are made of metal because rodents can chew through plastic and still take up residence inside.
Plant Vegetables Away From the House
Don’t make the mistake of planting a vegetable garden near your home. Vegetable gardens attract rodents, so you do not want to give them a reason to come in close proximity to them. Plant your vegetable garden at least fifteen feet away from the base of your home, and if possible, plant it across the yard to maintain the most distance.