It’s not uncommon for rats to turn up in even the nicest homes in Dallas, Texas. These dark brown or gray pests are known as “roof rats” because of their propensity to take up residence in attics around our area. You may wonder how they get in when there are no visible points of entry? Well, unfortunately, these critters can squeeze themselves through openings that are quite small. Juvenile rats can crawl through an opening the size of a quarter.
People often don’t notice roof rats until they hear gnawing sounds in their attics or walls, detect nesting material (such as chewed up paper or anything that shreds) or see droppings in their home. Found usually in the higher levels of a house, roof rats are drawn to the warmth and shelter attics can provide. However, these pests can cause a lot of problems inside your home. In order to further your knowledge of roof rats and how to prevent them, review the following information about potential damages and what you can do to help protect your home from infiltration.
Property Damage
If roof rats enter your home, they have the capacity to cause damage in a variety of ways. They love to burrow and may start to build holes deep down in your homes foundation. This can easily weaken the structure of your property and will require costly repairs. Rats will chew up just about anything to build their nests. They are also notorious for their habit of gnawing on insulation, electrical wiring, pipes, furniture, and just about anything else they can get their teeth on.
Diseases
Roof rats can carry a host of diseases into your home, which can put the health and well-being of your family at risk. Common rat diseases such as salmonella, tapeworms, murine typhus, can be transferred through feces, urine, or other contact.
How to Deter Roof Rats
You can deter roof rats with some simple maintenance.
- Landscaping Maintenance. Reduce the chances of roof rat infiltration by cleaning your yard on a regular basis. Since these pests tend to like moisture and hiding places, regularly trim your bushes, cut tree branches, and dispose of wood, leaves, and debris that typically surround a tree and may cover other areas of your yard.
- Roofing Maintenance. Regular roofing maintenance is a great way to decrease the chances of a roof rat finding a way into your home. Examine your roof as well as the soffit and fascia boards for any holes and gaps. Caulk even the smallest openings found. Secure your fireplace flue and pet doors as well.
If you have roof rats in your home, it’s best to let a professional handle the situation. SafeHaven pest control offers complete rodent elimination services both separately, and in our pest control maintenance bundles. If you need expert assistance to help keep your home pest-free and are interested in learning more about pest prevention services, contact SafeHaven Pest Control today to get started.
