Rodent Exclusion 101: How to Keep Rats and Mice Out for Good

Rodent problems are on the rise across the country—and Northern California is no exception. With more frequent wildfires and prolonged drought conditions, rats and mice are being pushed out of their natural habitats and into neighborhoods. As they search for shelter, warmth, and food, they often find their way into homes, especially older properties with easy access points.

Rodent exclusion is different from rodent control. Instead of reacting to an infestation, exclusion is all about prevention. It means sealing off the cracks, crevices, and openings that rodents use to get inside in the first place. As more homeowners seek out non-toxic, long-term solutions, we're here to help.

Read on to understand what to watch for, which exclusion methods actually work, and when to bring in a professional for rodent control in Northern California.

Common Signs You Have a Rodent Problem

Rodents are excellent at hiding, but they do leave behind clues. Some of the most common signs of rodents in your house include:

• Droppings near food, under sinks, or along baseboards.
• Scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night or in attics and walls.
• Chewed wires, cardboard, or insulation, often around appliances or storage areas.
• Shredded nesting materials like paper or fabric in hidden corners or inside crawlspaces.

In Northern California, factors like wildfire displacement, seasonal cold snaps, and aging home infrastructure make it easier for rodents to find a way in. Unfortunately, many rat and mouse infestation symptoms go unnoticed until the damage is done—or worse, until rodent-borne health risks appear.

If you’re hearing suspicious sounds, it’s time to investigate before the problem worsens.

Most Effective Rodent Exclusion Methods

The best way to stop rodents from entering your home is through a multi-layered exclusion approach that targets every potential entry point.

Here are the most effective rodent proofing strategies:

• Seal Entry Points: Use tough materials like steel mesh, concrete patch, and rodent-proof caulk to close off gaps around vents, pipes, siding, and the foundation.
• Vent & Soffit Protection: Install chew-proof screening over attic vents and roof openings. Rodents are expert climbers and often enter through the top of the structure.
• Crawlspace & Foundation Barriers: Protect under-house areas by reinforcing crawlspace walls and sealing any basement-level cracks.
• Sanitation Support: Remove debris, secure garbage, trim vegetation, and eliminate food and water sources that attract rodents in the first place.

While many homeowners attempt DIY exclusion, unfortunately, these efforts often fail. The biggest issues? Missed entry points and using materials that rodents can easily chew through. To truly rodent-proof a house, you may need expert eyes and better exclusion materials—especially in vulnerable spots like crawlspaces.

Why Professional Rodent Exclusion Works Better

Rodent exclusion is often a job that’s better off to be left to the pros. Here’s why:

• Trained technicians can spot tiny gaps and vulnerabilities—like holes near utility lines or at chimney stacks—that most people overlook.
• Professionals use commercial-grade materials that outperform anything found at a home improvement store.
• With localized experience, professionals know how rodents behave in different parts of Northern California and can tailor the solution accordingly.
• With Woods Pest Control, you get guaranteed peace of mind with warranties, follow-up services, and non-toxic prevention that protects your home without chemicals.

If you’re serious about keeping rodents out for good, it pays to work with a team that understands the terrain—and the pests that come with it.

Call Woods Pest Control for Expert Rodent Exclusion

At Woods Pest Control, we take a proactive approach to rodent control by focusing on long-term, non-toxic exclusion strategies that actually stop rodents from getting inside in the first place. Our rodent exclusion services are specifically designed for homes in Chico, Eureka, Redding, and surrounding Northern California communities.

When you schedule a professional rodent exclusion inspection, our trained technicians will assess your property for entry points, use the best materials to seal them, and take care of hard-to-reach areas like crawlspaces, attic vents, and foundations. 

Whether you've noticed the signs of a rodent infestation or simply want to prevent one, our team is here to help. Learn more about our rodent exclusion services or contact us today to schedule your inspection. Don’t wait until rats or mice cause costly damage—seal them out before they get in.