Rats can squeeze through a hole the size of a quarter. And the fact that rats can gnaw through most materials that houses in Jacksonville are made of. So even if a rat can’t find a way into the attic, it can create their own way in. Ignoring a rat entry can be disastrous. Rats are social rodents. They leave pheromone trails for other rats to follow. Rat trapping alone won’t provide a long-term rat control solution. Rat removal in Jacksonville needs to including trapping, exclusion, and remediation.
Gaps and Holes on roof
Gaps or holes in the roof, especially around vents, chimneys, or roof edge. They often gain access through gaps around roof vents, chimneys, or along the roof edges where the roofing material meets the siding or fascia. These areas should be thoroughly inspected and sealed with caulk, steel wool, or other durable materials.
Roof damage creates openings that rats can squeeze through to get into the attic. Regularly inspecting the roof and promptly repairing any missing or loose shingles is important.
Cracks on the exterior
Rats can climb up the exterior walls and find their way in through cracks, knotholes, or gaps in the siding or eaves. It’s important to carefully inspect these areas and seal any openings, even small ones.
Damage or missing vents
Attic vents provide important airflow, but can also be an easy access point for rats if the screens are damaged or missing. Replacing damaged screens with heavy-duty, rodent-proof mesh can help prevent entry.
gaps around utilities
Anywhere utilities or cables pass through the home’s exterior can be a potential rat entry point. These gaps should be sealed with caulk or expandable foam to close off access.
how to get rid of roof rats in jacksonville
Easily accessible sources of food will bring rats to your yard. Rats are omnivores and can eat almost anything. Rats can find food at bird feeders, pet food left outside, and garbage cans.
The typical roof rat entry points are through garages, vents, gaps around eaves or rooflines, and windows near trees. Effective rat control requires more than a few rat traps. You need to eliminate why the rats came to your property, remove access to your house, and finally exterminate the existing rat population.
To exterminate already established populations, homeowners may utilize traps, bait stations, electronic devices, and cats or dogs to stave off advancements of rodent populations. However, the use of such tactics may not entirely eliminate infestations.
Concerned Jacksonville residents should contact the professional pest removal experts at Trutech Wildlife Service to take care of any rat issues before they get out of hand.