Common Entry Points for Rats in Ottawa and Gatineau Homes and How to Seal Them
Rats are adept at finding entry points into homes, often slipping through even the smallest openings. In Ottawa and Gatineau, common access points include gaps around windows and doors, cracks in the foundation, and unsealed vents. They can also squeeze through utility lines, such as where cables and pipes enter the home. Identifying these areas is the first step to securing your home against rat intrusions.
Sealing entry points requires durable materials that rats cannot chew through. Aspen Wildlife Control recommends using steel wool and caulking for smaller cracks, while metal mesh suits larger gaps, especially around vents and chimneys. Regularly inspecting and maintaining these areas helps ensure that they remain rat-proof over time. Paying close attention to garage doors and basement windows, which often go unnoticed, can further reduce the risk of an infestation.
Preventing rats from entering also means being vigilant about structural maintenance. Aspen Wildlife Control advises homeowners in Ottawa and Gatineau to regularly check for signs of gnawing, droppings, or nesting materials near potential entry points, alerting you to new vulnerabilities. By addressing these areas proactively, homeowners can minimize the chance of a rat infestation taking hold.