How To Determine the Best Rodent Control Methods in Your Home

Rodents like rats and mice can be a serious problem in many homes, especially in warm and growing cities like San Antonio. They carry diseases, chew through wires and insulation, and can quickly multiply if not handled early. Knowing the right rodent control methods can save you time, stress, and money.

At Century Pest Control, we’ve helped homeowners across San Antonio find smart, safe, and effective ways to get rid of rodents and keep them out for good. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure out the best rodent control solution for your home.

1. Identify the Type of Rodent

The first step in rodent control is to know what you’re dealing with. The most common types of rodents in San Antonio homes are:

• House mice – Small, grayish, and often found in kitchens and pantries.
  
• Roof rats – Black or brown, and usually live in attics or high areas.
  
• Norway rats – Larger, burrowing rats often found in basements or lower levels.
  

Each type may require a slightly different approach, so knowing which rodent you have can make your control efforts much more effective.

2. Look for Signs of Rodent Activity

Before choosing a control method, it helps to confirm where the rodents are active. Look for signs like:

• Droppings in cabinets, drawers, or behind appliances
• Gnaw marks on food packaging, wires, or wood
• Scratching sounds in walls or ceilings
• Nests made of shredded paper or fabric
• Greasy rub marks along walls or baseboards

Knowing where rodents are spending their time helps target your treatment to those key areas.

3. Seal Entry Points

Even the best rodent control won’t work if new rodents can keep getting in. Check your home for small gaps and cracks where mice or rats could squeeze through. Focus on:

• Gaps around windows and doors
• Holes near pipes and utility lines
• Vents and rooflines
• Garage doors and crawl spaces

Use steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to seal holes. Rodents can chew through many materials, but they struggle with metal and strong sealants.

4. Choose the Right Control Method

Here are some of the most effective rodent control methods used in San Antonio homes:a. Traps

Traps are one of the most common and affordable options.

• Snap traps kill rodents quickly and are great for small infestations.
• Live traps catch rodents without killing them, but you must release them far from your home
• Glue traps are not recommended for long-term use due to ethical concerns and reduced effectiveness.

Place traps near walls, behind furniture, or anywhere you’ve seen signs of rodent activity.

b. Baits and Poison Stations

Rodent baits contain poison that rodents eat and carry back to their nests. These should always be used carefully, especially in homes with pets or children.

• Use tamper-proof bait stations to keep bait secure.
• Place them in attics, basements, or crawl spaces—never in food areas.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to contact a licensed pest control company like Century Pest Control to apply baits safely and effectively.

c. Ultrasonic Devices

Some people try electronic repellents that use high-pitched sounds to scare rodents away. While these devices can work temporarily, they are not a long-term solution and should be used alongside other methods.

d. Professional Rodent Control Services

If the infestation is large or persistent, calling a professional is the safest and most effective option. A trained technician will:

• Inspect your home thoroughly
• Identify the rodent species and entry points
• Use safe, professional-grade treatments
• Follow up to make sure the problem is completely resolved

Century Pest Control offers trusted rodent control in San Antonio, with over 40 years of experience helping local families live rodent-free.

5. Keep Your Home Rodent-Free

After removing rodents, you’ll want to make sure they don’t come back. Here’s how:

• Keep food sealed in containers with tight lids
• Take out the trash regularly
• Clean up crumbs and spills right away
• Store pet food in sealed containers
• Cut back tree branches that touch your roof
• Fix leaky pipes or standing water sources

Good hygiene and regular maintenance go a long way in keeping rodents away for good.

When to Call Century Pest Control

If you’ve tried home methods but still see signs of rodents—or if the infestation feels overwhelming—it’s time to call in the pros. At Century Pest Control, we specialize in rodent control San Antonio residents can rely on.

We offer:

• Fast, friendly inspections
• Safe and effective rodent removal
• Prevention plans tailored to your home
• Eco-friendly options when available
• Guaranteed results with ongoing support

Final Thoughts

Rodents are more than just a nuisance—they can be dangerous to your health and damaging to your home. By identifying the problem early, sealing entry points, and using the right combination of control methods, you can take back your space and protect your family.

For expert rodent control in San Antonio, trust the experienced team at Century Pest Control. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you create a rodent-free home.

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