How Do Rodents Get in Walls?
Rodents largely rely on humans for food, water, and shelter. This is why they go to extreme lengths to enter homes, squeezing through cracks as small as a quarter of an inch.
They tear insulation and build nests while bringing ticks, fleas, and mites with them. Rodents in walls are very annoying for many homeowners.
Problems with Rodents in Walls
Droppings
Unsanitary conditions develop soon after rodents move into the walls. The pests' droppings pile up quickly, creating a musty smell that can linger for weeks.
Homeowners who try to clean up rodent waste should take extreme caution, as contact can lead to Hantavirus, leptospirosis, and other illnesses.
Sounds
During the night, rodents in wall voids annoy residents with the rubbing and scratching sounds they make while moving around.
They also create loud noises while gnawing wood and drywall, causing unease and possible structural damage. Residents may hear squeaking as well when rodents in the walls communicate with each other.
Migration
Rodents in the walls often uses structural voids to move from attics or basements into other areas like kitchens and bedrooms. This is when residents are at the greatest risk from the pests' waste and parasites.
Common rodent diseases include rat-bite fever, salmonellosis, and bubonic plague.
Ridding the Home of Rodents
Because many structural gaps are hard to access, it can be difficult to locate and remove rodents in the walls. It is even worse when the pests die in these areas, as issues may arise with odors and pest insects.
Call Critter Control at the first signs of rodent infestation to prevent further damage.