Rodents, such as rats and mice, are unwelcome guests in any home. Not only do they carry diseases and create unsanitary conditions, but they can also cause significant damage to your property. In fact, rodent infestations cost homeowners and businesses billions of dollars each year in property damage.

So what kinds of damage can rodents cause? Let's take a closer look.

Structural Damage

One of the most common types of property damage caused by rodents is structural damage. These pesky creatures have strong front teeth that never stop growing, causing them to gnaw on anything they can find to keep their teeth trimmed down. This can include your home's wooden frame and structural beams. Over time, this constant chewing can weaken the structure of your home, causing significant damage that can be costly to repair.

Chewed Electrical Wires and Gas Lines

Rodents are also known to chew on electrical wiring and gas lines, which can create a serious fire hazard and threaten the safety of your household and neighbors. It's estimated that rodents are responsible for 20% to 25% of all fires of unknown causes due to their tendency to chew on electrical wiring and gas lines.

Shredded and Contaminated Insulation

Insulation is another common target for rodents. They will often shred insulation to use as nesting material, which can cause your home's heating and cooling system to work less efficiently. Additionally, rodent urine and feces can contaminate the insulation, creating unsanitary conditions and unpleasant odors.

Destroyed and Contaminated Air Ducts

In addition to insulation, rodents may also damage and contaminate your home's air ducts. These tunnels provide a perfect place for rodents to travel around your home undetected. However, their constant chewing can create holes and tears in the ducts, which can lead to air leakage, increased energy bills, and even spread of harmful bacteria and allergens throughout your home.

Car Damage

Rodents aren't just limited to causing damage inside your home. They can also wreak havoc on your cars and other vehicles. Rodents like to hide in warm and enclosed spaces, making your car's engine compartment a prime spot for them to nest. Unfortunately, their sharp teeth can cause significant damage to wires, belts, and hoses, which can lead to costly repairs.

Why It's Important to Involve a Rodent Control Expert

As you can see, rodents can cause a wide range of property damage that can be expensive and time-consuming to repair. That's why it's crucial to involve a rodent control expert at the first signs of an infestation.

DIY methods can be ineffective at best, and at worst, they can even be dangerous. Traps and poisons can harm not only the rodents but also any children or pets that may come into contact with them. Plus, without proper knowledge and equipment, it's difficult to fully eradicate a rodent infestation.

A professional rodent control expert has the experience, knowledge, and tools necessary to safely and effectively remove rodents from your home. They can also inspect your home for any potential entry points and provide recommendations on how to prevent future infestations.

Charlotte Rodent Control

Don't let the common house mouse or other rodents wreak havoc in your North Carolina home. At Sage Pest Control, we specialize in expert rat and mouse control, offering exceptional service in Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced technicians are highly trained in handling any rodent problem you may be facing.

Don't wait for a small problem to turn into a large, costly issue. Call our rodent control experts today at (704) 413-3398 to take the first step towards a rodent-free home.