How to Mouse-Proof Your Home Before Winter
Ottawa homeowners winterize outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, pools, and gardens.
Your home's rodent protection deserves a place on the fall checklist too.
Step 1: Walk the Entire Exterior
Start at one corner and slowly inspect the complete building.
Don't inspect from the driveway. Get close enough to see gaps.
Step 2: Check the Foundation
Look for cracks, damaged areas, and penetrations.
Remember that mice need very little space. Health Canada says they can squeeze through a crack approximately the size of a dime.
Step 3: Check Doors
Inspect weather stripping and thresholds.
Pay particular attention to garage doors.
Step 4: Inspect Utility Penetrations
Look where:
- electrical cables
- air-conditioning lines
- plumbing
- gas lines
- communication cables
enter the structure.
Step 5: Inspect Vents and Soffits
Damaged screening and building components should be repaired appropriately.
Step 6: Clean Up Around the Foundation
Remove unnecessary debris and maintain vegetation.
Step 7: Secure Food
Move bird seed, grass seed, pet food, and other edible materials into rodent-resistant storage.
Step 8: Manage Garbage
Use secure containers and keep the surrounding area clean.
Step 9: Reduce Clutter
Organized garages and basements provide fewer hiding opportunities and make rodent evidence easier to detect.
Step 10: Consider Exterior Rodent Protection
Mouse-proofing doesn't have to begin after the first indoor sighting.
A proactive program can establish protection before winter pressure increases.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I mouse-proof my Ottawa home?
Fall is an excellent time because you can inspect and correct vulnerabilities before winter.
How small an opening can mice use?
Health Canada says approximately the size of a dime.
Should I check my garage?
Absolutely. Garages can provide food, shelter and access to the building.
Does sealing holes guarantee I won't get mice?
Exclusion is an important component of prevention, but rodent management should also address food, water, shelter and activity.
What should I do if I find signs of mice while winterizing?
Look for possible entry points and accessible food sources near the affected area. If droppings, gnaw marks or sightings continue, consider a professional inspection to help identify how mice are entering and what conditions may be attracting them.
Put Rodent Protection on Your Fall Checklist
Mosquito.Buzz Ottawa: 4 Rodent Protection Visits for Just $375
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