Category: How to get rid of mice (Page 1 of 2)

Natural tips and tricks for getting rid of mice and rats in your house.

Rodent Removal And Prevention Information

October 10, 2023 / parkerecopest

Whatcom County posted some helpful information about the risks of rodents. Here is what the County’s website says:

Rodents — Rodents can be a nuisance and cause health risks. Rodents may cause damage and can carry diseases. Rodents may also carry fleas or ticks that may transmit disease. It is important to seal up places rodents may enter and remove their access to food, water, and shelter.
https://www.whatcomcounty.us/3255/Animal-Exposure

This ties in with one of our earlier blog posts about the need for rodent inspections for your home:

Reasons Why Rodent Inspection Is Important

We serve a good portion of Washington including our new office in Bellingham, which serves nearby towns such as Marietta-Alderwood and Ferndale. In recent weeks we have made videos from that area of the state showing clips from recent pest control jobs.

One of these recent videos shows some of our methods for natural pest control and rodent prevention for rats, mice and similar pests:

When you are ready to book an inspection you are welcome to contact us.

1-800-ECO-1698 or Send a Text or you may book online using this button:

Book Online

Entry Points – How do rodents get into your house?

June 13, 2023 / parkerecopest

Are you ready for a riveting journey into the secret world of home invaders? We’re not talking about burglars or spies, but rather those tiny, mischievous creatures with a knack for making our homes their own: rodents! These crafty critters have perfected the art of finding entry points into our cozy abodes. Join us as we unravel the mystery and explore the most common entry points for these furry invaders. Get ready to be amazed, amused, and maybe a little bit grossed out!

The “Tiny Hole, Big Adventure” Route:

You may be astonished to discover that mice and rats can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter of an inch! That’s right, these masters of infiltration can slither through gaps you’d never think possible. Cracks in foundations, holes around utility pipes, or even damaged weather stripping around doors and windows can serve as their secret tunnels into your home. The next time you spot a hole, remember, it could be an open invitation for a rodent escapade!

Air Vent Express:

Rodents have a fondness for ventilation systems, making air vents an attractive entry point for them. These critters can navigate through ducts, tunnels, and crawl spaces, using the vast network of airways in your home to explore every nook and cranny. So, while you enjoy the comfort of temperature-controlled air, rodents might be enjoying a wild adventure through your ventilation system. Who knew air vents could be the gateway to rodent raves?

Doorways: Welcome to the Party!

Doors may seem like an unlikely entry point for rodents, but these resourceful creatures have a knack for exploiting weaknesses. If your door sweeps are worn out or if there are gaps between the door and the floor, consider it an open invitation for rodent revelry. Mice and rats are experts at wedging their way through the smallest gaps, much to our dismay. Perhaps it’s time to give your doors a closer inspection and make sure they’re not secretly hosting a rodent block party.

The Pipe Maze:

Pipes running into your home can serve as more than just conduits for water and gas. They can also act as superhighways for rodents. Rats and mice can navigate their way through the labyrinth of pipes, finding their way into basements, attics, and crawl spaces. It’s like an underground rodent subway system right beneath our noses! Remember to keep an eye out for any cracks or gaps around pipe entry points and seal them up tight to avoid unexpected rodent houseguests.

Garage Gamble:

Our garages are often packed with miscellaneous items, making them ideal hiding spots for rodents. Rodents are opportunistic creatures, and if your garage door weather stripping is damaged or there are gaps in the walls, they’ll happily invite themselves in. Once inside, they’ll indulge in a treasure hunt, exploring boxes, nibbling on cables, and possibly even constructing their own little rodent hideouts amidst the clutter. Who knew the garage could become a rodent amusement park?

Conclusion:

While we may find rodents cute and fuzzy from a distance, we definitely don’t want them setting up camp in our homes. Now that you’re familiar with their favorite entry points, it’s time to take action. Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or compromised areas, and seal them up to thwart these audacious intruders. Remember, keeping rodents out means safeguarding your home from unexpected adventures, wild rodent parties, and potential mischief. Stay vigilant, protect your castle, and bid adieu to those uninvited, furry guests!

Rat-tastic Backyards: Fun Tips to Keep Rodents at Bay!

May 23, 2023 / parkerecopest

Ah, the backyard—a sanctuary of relaxation, play, and picnics. But watch out! There’s a sneaky bunch lurking around, waiting for the perfect opportunity to crash your outdoor party: rodents! Fear not, for we have some fun and creative tips to help you keep your backyard clean, tidy, and rodent-free. Let’s dive into the wild world of rodent repulsion and turn your backyard into an unwelcome territory for these uninvited guests.

Musical Chairs for Trash Cans

Rodents love to rummage through trash cans, but we have a clever solution: musical chairs for trash cans! Assign a designated spot for your trash cans and periodically rotate their locations. This confuses the clever critters, making it harder for them to locate a consistent food source. Plus, it adds an element of surprise to your backyard game of “Keep Away from the Rats!”

Scarecrow of Distractions

Who said scarecrows were just for birds? Get creative and make a “rodent scarecrow” to protect your garden and backyard. Dress up a large stuffed animal or create a quirky scarecrow with googly eyes, a funky hat, and wild attire. Position it strategically to intimidate the rodents and deter them from venturing too close. Just imagine their furry little faces when they see your unexpected guardian!

Dance-Off with a Broom

Rodents are skilled acrobats, but they can’t resist a good old-fashioned dance-off! Keep a broom handy, and whenever you spot a sneaky critter scurrying about, challenge it to a dance battle. Bust out your best moves, and the bewildered rodent won’t know what hit them. Just make sure your neighbors don’t catch you mid-groove—it could be the talk of the town!

Camouflaged Traps

Who says rodent control can’t be stylish? Spruce up your yard by turning your rodent traps into artistic masterpieces. Paint them in vibrant colors and patterns that blend with your garden decor. This way, the traps become part of the scenery while silently protecting your backyard from rodent invasions. It’s like having a secret superhero squad guarding your outdoor haven!

Citrus Paradise

Rodents have a keen sense of smell, so let’s use that to our advantage. Create a citrus paradise in your backyard by planting lemon, lime, or orange trees. Not only do these trees add a refreshing touch to your outdoor space, but the strong citrus scent also acts as a natural repellent to rodents. It’s like having a mini tropical getaway right in your backyard!

Rodent Olympics Obstacle Course

Why let rodents have all the fun? Set up an obstacle course in your backyard that challenges their agility and dexterity. Install ramps, tunnels, and mazes made from PVC pipes, old toys, and recycled materials. The rodents will be so engrossed in navigating the course that they’ll forget about exploring your garden. Plus, it’s an entertaining spectacle for you and your friends to enjoy while sipping lemonade on the sidelines.

Conclusion

Keeping your backyard clean and repelling rodents doesn’t have to be a dull task. Embrace your creativity and turn rodent control into a fun and playful adventure. With musical chairs for trash cans, dancing broom battles, camouflaged traps, citrus paradises, and rodent Olympics, your backyard will become a fortress of fun that rodents wouldn’t dare enter. So, put on your dancing shoes, grab a broom, and let the rodent repulsion games begin!

If this doesn’t work, or you just want to hire a professional natural pest control team, contact us today and let us handle your rodent problems.

Rodent Magnets: Understanding What Attracts Them and How to Repel Them

May 9, 2023 / parkerecopest

Rodents, with their nimble bodies and incessant curiosity, can quickly become unwelcome guests in our homes. To effectively prevent rodent infestations, it’s crucial to understand what lures them in the first place. In this article, we’ll delve into the factors that attract rodents the most and explore practical strategies to avoid enticing these unwanted visitors. By making our homes less appealing to rodents, we can safeguard our spaces and maintain a rodent-free environment.

Food Sources: The Ultimate Attraction

The presence of accessible food is the primary factor that attracts rodents. They have an exceptional sense of smell and can detect even the tiniest morsels of sustenance. To avoid drawing them in, store food in airtight containers made of glass or plastic. Keep countertops clean, promptly clean up spills, and sweep floors regularly to remove crumbs and food residue. Properly seal trash cans, dispose of garbage regularly, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.

Clutter and Hiding Places: Rodent Hideouts

Cluttered spaces provide rodents with abundant hiding places and nesting sites. Remove clutter from your surroundings, both indoors and outdoors, to eliminate potential rodent havens. Pay special attention to attics, basements, and storage areas where rodents can easily establish nests. Keep firewood stacks away from the house, and store items off the ground to minimize potential hiding spots.

Entry Points: The Pathway In

Rodents can squeeze through remarkably small openings, so it’s crucial to seal off potential entry points. Inspect your home for gaps around doors, windows, utility lines, and pipes. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or mesh wire to seal these openings. Check for cracks in the foundation and repair them promptly. Install door sweeps and ensure screens are intact to prevent rodents from sneaking in.

Water Sources: Parched Rodent Prevention

Rodents require a water source to survive, so it’s essential to eliminate any standing water or sources of moisture. Fix leaky pipes, faucets, and any plumbing issues promptly. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the foundation. Avoid overwatering plants and promptly remove any standing water in outdoor containers or saucers.

Proper Waste Management: A Rodent Deterrent

Rodents are opportunistic scavengers, and waste can be a readily available food source for them. Proper waste management is essential in avoiding rodent attraction. Use secure, lidded trash cans both indoors and outdoors. Keep garbage areas clean and regularly remove trash from your property. If you have compost bins, use ones specifically designed to deter rodents and avoid adding meat or oily food scraps.

Maintenance and Regular Inspections: Staying One Step Ahead

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial in avoiding rodent infestations. Keep your property well-maintained, with trimmed trees and shrubs that don’t provide easy access to your home. Regularly check for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual sounds. Early detection allows for swift action and prevents infestations from taking hold.

Preventing rodents from infiltrating our homes starts with understanding what attracts them in the first place. By addressing the factors that entice rodents, such as easily accessible food, clutter, entry points, and water sources, we can significantly reduce the risk of infestations. Regular maintenance, proper waste management, and a proactive approach to sealing potential entry points are essential steps in creating an inhospitable environment for rodents. By implementing these strategies, we can effectively deter rodents and maintain a clean, rodent-free living space.

Nature’s Shield: Unveiling the Benefits of Natural Pest Control in Washington State

April 5, 2023 / parkerecopest

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Washington State lies a haven of natural beauty and abundant wildlife. However, along with the splendor, pests can sometimes disrupt the harmony of this picturesque region. Fortunately, there’s a solution that aligns with Washington’s commitment to environmental preservation—natural pest control. In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the benefits of harnessing nature’s power to combat pests, creating a balanced and sustainable coexistence with the diverse ecosystems of Washington State.

Environmental Harmony: Preserving Washington’s Natural Splendor

Washington State is renowned for its pristine wilderness, diverse ecosystems, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Embracing natural pest control methods honors the state’s commitment to environmental harmony. By utilizing organic, plant-based, and eco-friendly solutions, we can minimize the impact on fragile ecosystems, protecting the biodiversity and delicate balance of Washington’s flora and fauna.

Less-Toxic and Non-Toxic Solutions: Safeguarding Health and Well-being

Traditional pest control methods often rely on heavy traditional pesticides that can have adverse effects on human health and wildlife. Natural pest control methods provide alternatives, ensuring the safety and well-being of both humans and the environment. By using FIFRA exempt products, class 4 pesticides, and plant-derived ingredients like essential oils, we can combat pests effectively without compromising the health of our families, pets, or the ecosystem.

Protecting Beneficial Insects: Guardians of the Garden

In Washington’s lush gardens and agricultural landscapes, beneficial insects play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Natural pest control methods prioritize the preservation of these beneficial insects, such as bees, ladybugs, and butterflies. By avoiding broad pesticide application and applying products with precision and care, we allow these garden defenders to thrive, ensuring pollination, natural pest control, and the preservation of a balanced ecosystem.

Sustainable Agriculture: Nurturing the Land

Washington State boasts a thriving agricultural industry, producing an array of crops. Natural pest control aligns perfectly with sustainable agriculture practices. By utilizing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides. IPM emphasizes preventive measures, monitoring, and targeted treatments, reducing pesticide use and minimizing harm to the environment. This sustainable approach ensures the long-term health and productivity of Washington’s agricultural lands.

Resilient Pest Management: Targeted and Effective

Natural pest control methods emphasize long-term solutions and resilience. Rather than relying solely on chemical eradication, natural approaches address the root causes of pest problems. By focusing on prevention, cultural practices, and natural remedies, we create an environment that is less hospitable to pests. Some pest control methods, such as rodent birth control, pheromone traps, and companion planting, target specific pests while maintaining the natural balance of Washington’s ecosystems.

Eco-Conscious Communities: Inspiring Change

Natural pest control methods inspire eco-conscious communities. By adopting these practices, individuals and neighborhoods become catalysts for change. Sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences fosters a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Communities in Washington State can work together to create a ripple effect, influencing others to embrace natural pest control methods and join the journey towards a greener and more harmonious future.

Conclusion

In the verdant landscapes of Washington State, natural pest control stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship and sustainability. By choosing organic, less-toxic and non-toxic solutions, we protect the natural splendor of this region, safeguard human health, and preserve the delicate balance of its ecosystems. Natural pest control not only offers effective solutions but also fosters a mindset of coexistence, demonstrating our commitment to living in harmony with nature.

big brown rat in the kitchen, rat exterminator mercer island

Rodent Control Lake Stevens Are Rats a Problem in this City

March 9, 2023 / parkerecopest

Do you need rodent control in Lake Stevens? Lake Stevens is a city located in Snohomish County, Washington. It is located about 25 miles northeast of Seattle and is home to approximately 28,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains and its many lakes, including Lake Stevens itself. The city is also home to several parks, trails, and other recreational areas, making it a great place to live and visit. Unfortunately, like many Pacific Northwest cities, Lake Stevens has a rat problem. The presence of rats can be a nuisance and a health hazard, so it is important for residents to take steps to control the rodent population. This can include sealing up cracks and crevices, eliminating food sources, and using traps or baits to capture the rodents.

What Attracts Rats and Mice to a Home

Rats and mice are attracted to homes for a variety of reasons. One of the most common is the presence of food sources, such as crumbs, pet food, or spilled garbage. Rats and mice will also be drawn to homes if there are plenty of hiding places, such as in wall voids, attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Finally, these rodents are attracted to warmth and shelter, so they may seek out homes that are not well insulated or have inadequate ventilation.

Learn about the most common pests found in Snohomish county!

Yes, Rats can do a lot of Damage to a Home.

Having a rat infestation in your home can be bad for several reasons. Rats can spread disease, contaminate food and water sources, and cause structural damage to your home.

Rats have formidable teeth that can gnaw through walls and electrical wires, posing a grave threat of electrical fires and other risks. Furthermore, these creatures may carry parasites, such as fleas and mites, potentially leading to health complications.

Finally, rats can produce a strong, unpleasant odor and make noise, making living in a home with an infestation difficult.

Rats and Mice are a Problem in Lake Stevens, Washington!

Yes, rodents are a problem in Seattle. Rodents can cause significant damage to homes and businesses and spread diseases. Rodent control is important for preventing the spread of these diseases, reducing property damage, and maintaining the safety of people and pets in the area.

Effective rodent control involves identifying the source of the infestation, eliminating food sources, sealing up cracks and crevices, and using traps or baits to capture the rodents. Professional pest control services can also help with rodent control in Seattle, providing more comprehensive solutions.

Talk to Us About Rodent Control in Lake Stevens, Washington

At Parker Eco Pest Control, we’ve got your eco-friendly pest control needs in Lake Stevens covered! Our team of dedicated rodent exterminators and pest experts can work with you to develop an effective plan for getting rid of those pesky rats and mice once and for all – and we do it all naturally – no toxins or harsh chemicals – just dedication and strategy!

So, talk to us today to learn more about natural rodent control in Lake Stevens, WA

Man putting insulation in dirt crawl space

A Fool’s Proof Guide to Dealing with Crawl Space Pests in Seattle

September 22, 2021 / parkerecopest

Dirt crawl spaces in Seattle are the perfect breeding grown for a range of pests! Cheeky rodents, cockroaches are just some of the common Seattle pests that can invade your crawl space. At Parker Eco Pest Control, we see many homeowners struggle to keep rats out of a crawl space! In fact, providing adequate rodent control and crawl space repair is one of our most requested services. So, in this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about dealing with crawl space pests in Seattle.

Help! How Do I Keep Rats Out of My Crawl Space?

Rats dwelling in your crawl space can leave quite a mess behind! Feces, urine, and damaged insulation are just some of the problems you may face. There are a few things you can do when it comes to keeping rats out and away from a crawl space!

Remove damaged insulation: Insulation can retain urine, and it’s a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. In the long run, urine-damaged insulation can lead to increased humidity, odor, and mold growth, all of which can affect your health and well-being.

Rodent control is key: There are many different ways you can choose to control the rodent population around your home. Talk to us today to learn more about how we handle rats and mice naturally and effectively.

Managing Rodents in a Dirt Crawl Space

diagram of how to manage rodents in a crawl space, seattle home

When it comes to crawling space rodent control in Seattle, we have your back at Parker Eco Pest Control. Managing rodents like mice and rats within a dirt crawl space will require skilled pest control professionals and time. At Parker Eco Pest Control, we deal with the problem using a 3 visit plan approach.

So, how do we do it?

Remove those cheeky pests! Of course, it comes without saying that as part of the pest control protocol, we must remove as many rodents as we can from the crawl space. This may involve setting various mouse traps and baits to decrease the rodent population gradually. Don’t worry; we have organic pest control options too!
Seal those entry points! Mice and rats can find many ways to invade your home. A skilled pest controller will examine the exterior of your home and crawl space to determine potential entry points and openings. The aim here is to seal any cracks or holes, which decreases the risk of a population of rodents from establishing.
Rodenticides and rat baits for better control: In some cases, we may recommend placing rodenticides throughout your crawl space to control the rat and mice population.

We Have Options for Pest Control Crawl Space Barriers

Installing galvanized steel mesh along the foundation of your home and sealing off your joists will prevent rodents from damaging crawl space insulation. Buried galvanized steel mesh can also prevent rodents from entering the living area of your home.

Got Rodent Damaged Insulation? Talk to Us About Crawl Space Repair

Rodents can not only leave behind feces and urine, but they can also damage the insulation of your crawl space. In the long run, this can lead to many problems, including poor insulation, further pest problems, and more!

When it comes to cleaning up, sanitizing, and re-insulating a crawl space, our Parker Eco Pest Control team is here to help. Our highly trained team of professional pest controllers works one-on-one with homeowners to sanitize, re-insulate, and repair crawl spaces throughout Seattle.

What’s Included in Our Rodent Crawl Space Clean Up?

We understand that repairing and cleaning a rodent-infested crawl space in Seattle can sound costly! But, it doesn’t have to be. At Parker Eco Pest Control, we offer homeowners several service levels to cater to their needs and budget.

Refresh:

This option is perfect for crawl spaces with minor rodent damages. Refreshing your crawl space will include:

Vacuuming rodent dropping and sanitizing the area with an industrial fogger
We can replace the vapor barrier
Our team can remove sections of contaminated insulation and replace insulation as needed.
As part of our protocol, we install permanent rodent barriers and rodent-proof insulation.

Remove:

This option is perfect for crawl spaces with moderate rodent damages. In particular, it’s a great option for homeowners who lack a permanent rodent barrier within their crawl space. This option is similar to our refresh selection which includes

Vacuuming rodent dropping and sanitizing the area with an industrial fogger
We can replace the vapor barrier.
Our team can remove sections of contaminated insulation and replace insulation as needed.
We provide an air gap sealing service that can cut your energy bill by 15%. Air gap sealing will also stop drafts and heat loss.
As part of our protocol, we install permanent rodent barriers and rodent-proof insulation.

Replace

This option is perfect for crawl spaces with significant rodent damages, including damaged insulation. The replace option includes everything listed above.

Vacuuming rodent dropping and sanitizing the area with an industrial fogger
We can replace the vapor barrier.
All insulation is removed and replaced with new rodent-proof insulation. We even insulate HVAC ducts and water lines to prevent heat loss.
We provide an air gap sealing service that can cut your energy bill by 15%. Air gap sealing will also stop drafts and heat loss.
As part of our protocol, we install permanent rodent barriers and rodent-proof insulation.

Getting rid of rats from your crawl space doesn’t have to be a difficult task! Talk to us today to learn more about crawl space repair and pest control services in Seattle.

Barn Owl Box: The Natural Rat Repellent in Seattle

August 7, 2021 / parkerecopest

Are you looking for natural rodent control methods? Well, let us introduce you to the power of the barn owl nest box. Keeping rats and mice out of your home and garden can be an incredibly tedious task. Often we find that rat control options such as rat bait aka rodenticides, only provide short-term control of rodents, not to mention that the toxic substances are incredibly cruel. But, what if we told you there’s a better way to keep the rodent population in your area at bay? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about barn owl boxes as natural rodent control.

Here’s Why You Need a Barn Owl Nest Box

Barn owls are exceptional predators that often go unappreciated. These deadly hunters possess powerful vision and hearing, which allow them to track and kill prey quickly. But, perhaps the greatest feature of this predator is its appetite for rodents. Yes, that’s right! Barn owls love rats and mice, and in fact, in a single nesting season, a pair of barn owls can consume up to 30,000 rats.

Installing your Barn Owl Nest at Home

Installing a barn owl box for rodent control in Seattle home

For this natural rodent control method to work, you’ll need to make the nest box appealing to the barn owls. This might be a particularly tedious task if you live in a busy Seattle suburb. So, here are our top tips to consider when installing a barn owl nest in your backyard.

A Good-Sized Nest Box: Barn owls require adequate space to nest and grow their young. We recommend creating a nest box that is anywhere from 10 to 15 cubic feet. Entry holes into the nest box should be a minimum of 6 inches.
Keep it Attractive: Adding straw and untreated natural fibers in the box will encourage barn owls to begin nesting.
The Right Placement: Barn owls prefer to hunt rodents in big grassy open fields. As such, we recommend installing your barn owl nesting box with the opening facing a wide open space. An ideal position protects the entry hole from the wind while offering a great view of prey.
High Above: In the wild, barn owls nest high up on buildings, trees, or mountain cliffs. So, make sure to place your nest box at least 10 feet above the ground.

Don’t want to build a barn owl box yourself? Don’t worry we sell the perfect pre-made barn owl boxes that are sure to attract some owls to your property. Make sure you reach out to us to learn more!

Do Fake Owls Keep Rats Away?

Yes! Installing fake owls around your property can act as a great rat repellent. It’s a great little trick that works similarly as a scarecrow on a field, although they do become less effective over time as rats outsmart the decoy. That being said, it’s not the best natural rodent control method as it does not reduce the rodent population on your property like a real owl would.

3 Reasons for Humane Pest Control

Installing a barn owl nest box isn’t the only way to control your rodent problem. If you’re interested in learning more about natural rodent control methods in Seattle, check out our top tips.

Rodenticides kill animals slowly. Did you know that rat bait kills rodents slowly? These poisons result in coagulopathies, which means that the animal will die slowly from uncontrollable bleeding.
Rodenticides can harm your pets and owls: Rat bait toxicity is a common problem seen in companion animal medicine. It often occurs due to a dog or cat eating either the rat bait directly or eating way too many mice that have consumed rat bait. Wild animals like our American barn owl can also die from rat bait toxicity when they consume large amounts of poisoned rats or mice. So, keep your pets and wildlife safe by avoiding rodenticides.
Barn owls provide better long-term control: Barn owls that nest in your nest box will continue to nest on your property each season. It’s a great way to reduce the overall rodent population on your property and acts as a long-term rodent repellent.

Parker Eco Pest Control: Natural Rodent Control in Seattle

Controlling those pesky rodents is tricky! But, you don’t have to do it alone. At Parker Eco Pest Control, we proudly support customers who choose natural rodent control methods. We can help you create and install the perfect American barn owl nest box, so you don’t have to worry about getting the niggly details right. Correctly installing a nest box to suit the barn owls’ natural behavior is critical to ensure adequate rodent control. So, reach out to us today to learn more about finding and installing barn owl boxes for pest control in Seattle.

Mice or rodents in the attic? Your roof needs drip edge flashing

June 10, 2020 / Wesley Parker

One of the most common ways for rodents to enter an attic is through a gap between the shingles and the gutter. Gaps like this are extremely common in Washington State due to a quark in the residential building code. This gap, sometimes called a carpenter’s gap or construction gap, can be sealed off using a piece of metal flashing called a drip edge. This piece of metal is also known as gutter flashing or rake edge flashing.

How to check for drip edge flashing

If you’re stumped on how mice, rats, birds, or squirrels are getting into your attic, we highly recommend looking at the exterior of the roof line. If you have a hipped roof (shaped like a pyramid) you should check the entire perimeter. If you have a gabled roof you likely only need to check the two sides with gutters.

Slide your hand to the back of the gutter where it’s secured against the house. If you can fit your hand under the shingles it’s big enough for a rat to squeeze through. Remember, rats only need a gap the size of a quarter and mice only need a gap the size of a dime. Rodents usually leave signs on the areas they frequent the most. Look for chewing, greasy smears called rub marks, and of course droppings.

Drip edge wasn’t in Washington code until 2015

Washington State residential code only began requiring drip edge in 2015, meaning If your home was built in 2014 or earlier, there is a good chance you have a large gap running continuously around the perimeter of your roof. You can read the code yourself online.

Should you install drip edge flashing to seal the attic from rodents?

Yes, you should definitely install a drip edge (AKA gutter flashing) to seal out mice, rats, squirrels and birds. At a cost of $10 to $20 per foot installed, it’s fairly inexpensive and will save you money down the line compared to the cost of damage from an infestation.

In addition to blocking pests, drip edge flashing protects your house from wind and water dripping behind the shingles, hence the name “drip edge.” It’s a wise investment for any roof.

Checking your log home for rodents

February 19, 2019 / Wesley Parker

Log homes are beautiful and unique structures that come with unusual maintenance challenges. Four generations of the Parker family have enjoyed a log home on the Washington peninsula and we’ve learned that proper maintenance is key. Log homes are often more susceptible to rodents, crawling insects, and wood destroying organisms, especially when they are used as vacation homes instead of a primary residence. Today we’re doing a deep dive on the scariest threat to your log home and your family’s health – rodents.

Looking for rodent activity

With the risk of transmitting Hantavirus, rodents are the most dangerous log home pest you might face. They can enter the home at any time, but the highest risk for activity is when the home has been sitting vacant over the winter. Mice and rats are driven inside by the cold weather and can gather in large numbers if humans aren’t around to kick them out. If you are opening the home for the season follow these steps to inspect for rodents:

Follow your nose. If you open the home and smell urine, you’ve definitely got a rodent issue. If it seems pee-free then continue down this list and conduct a deeper search.
Look for droppings in the kitchen and closets. Mice love tight spaces with food and bedding. Check the corners of drawers, the bottom shelf of the cabinets, and anywhere else that is dark and secluded.
Check for nests. As with droppings, closets are a favorite spot for rodents to gather fluffy material and make nests. Some less obvious nesting locations are inside of furniture such as the underside of a couch, inside of mattresses and pillows, and tucked away in heating ducts.
Identify rub marks. Mice can fit through a hole the size of a dime. Sometimes its tough for humans to find these tiny holes. Lucky for us, mice are creatures of habit, meaning they use the same “roads” often. The little highway across your kitchen window sill can get stained with rub marks as the mice shuffle along the wall and around corners. These dark, greasy smudges are a classic sign of an infestation.

Mouse poop and Hantavirus

If you find evidence of rodent activity you should assume that the droppings contain Hantavirus and follow safety precautions. Hantavirus is carried by deer mice and is fatal to 36% of people who catch it. Sadly there is no way to know what type of mice were in your home. Even if you find a house mouse carcass you can’t guarantee there were not also deer mice present.

The key to cleaning up safely is NOT breathing in particles. Spray everything down with a water/bleach mixture since damp particles won’t circulate as freely as dry ones. Wear a mask and gloves. Bag all the rags and throw them out. Do not vacuum or sweep since it stirs up dry particles.

Sealing holes and trapping

How to get rid of Mice Naturally — Download our free ebook “How to get rid of mice naturally”

The last step is preventing mice from entering your home moving forward. We recommend our free eBook, The Complete Guide: How to Get Rid of Mice Naturally. It’s packed with tips for sealing holes, everything you need to know about traps, and lots of photos for the DIYer in all of us.

One aspect of mouse control that is specific to log homes and not covered in the eBook is chinking. Gaps in chinking are an extremely common method of entry for mice. Be sure to visually inspect your chinking from the interior and exterior, preferably on a ladder. Given the rounded shape of a log it can be difficult to see gaps from the ground.

Wondering how mice fit through the chinking? Check out this experiment:

Preventing rodents

The two best things you can do to prevent rats and mice are 1) Keeping up with all recommended maintenance and 2)Living on the property year round.

Log home maintenance can be a DIY affair for the brave at heart but some jobs require an expert. The Parkers use Madrona Log Homes for log home maintenance because they’re dependable, local, and use eco-friendly materials. Who knew walnut blasting was so cool to watch? Tell the owner Travis that we sent you!

The second recommendation is often impractical for home owners. But if someone is living in the home it’s very easy to spot problems and head them off early. You’re unlikely to develop a large deer mouse infestation if there is constant human oversight.

Feel free to call or email us if you have additional questions about keeping your log home pest-free.