Rats, like mice, are known for squeezing into tight areas in order to find food and shelter in your home. They can find their way inside through holes, cracks or gaps that are under doorways, windows, floorboards or in the ceiling. Once they find a way in, they create a hidden nest for their family. Predominantly they enjoy nesting in higher areas, such as in the ceiling, the attic or the roof. It may seem impossible to keep them away from your home, but in fact, there are ways to deter them. Keep reading for ways to prevent rats on your roof. 

1-Mothballs

Not only do mothballs repel moths, but they also repel rats and are poisonous to them. Rather than setting a trap, place mothballs in your attic where rats are congregating. Make sure that wherever you place the mothballs will be out of reach of children and pets. 

2-Peppermint Oil

Peppermint produces a strong odor that many pests hate, including rats. They dislike the taste as well. If you wish to repel rats, place some peppermint oil on a cotton ball and hide them in different areas of your home where rats tend to gather. You may also want to consider growing peppermint in your garden or keeping some in your kitchen. 

3-Ammonia

Use a mixture of ammonia to keep rats away. Pour two cups of ammonia along with two tablespoons of detergent into a bowl. Rats cannot stand the smell and will stay far away from it. Be sure to place the ammonia in an area that is away from children or pets, as it is toxic to them. 

4-Red Pepper Flakes

Rats are deterred by spicy scents, as they find these overbearing. They also do not like the taste. Sprinkling them around the attic and other areas where rats may be entering your home helps to keep them at bay.

5-Instant Potato Powder

Sprinkle instant potato powder in areas where rats are gathering. When they eat the powder, it will cause inflammation inside their intestines, which will result in death.

There are many ways in which you can be proactive in deterring rats from your roof. However, sometimes rat infestations can become more than you can handle. When this happens, don’t hesitate to contact pest control professionals. Contact us today!