Why Glen Ellyn’s Older Homes Are More Prone to Rodent Infestations

The tree-lined streets and vintage architecture of Glen Ellyn’s quaint historic neighborhoods give residents a nice balance of small-town charm and suburban convenience, a unique combination. 

When you hear scratching in the walls during the night, find droppings in your pantry, or gnawed electrical wires, it can be a quick slap in the face, bringing you back to the realization that your dream house is becoming a nightmare. About 65% of Glen Ellyn’s housing stock dates to before 1980, which makes these structural weaknesses ideal for mouse and rat entry and nesting.

Therefore, it is quite evident to let a reputable Glen Ellyn pest control company take care of the pest issue and ensure your home remains rodent-free.

Reasons Why Older Homes in Glen Ellyn Attract Rodents

Aging Foundation and Structural Gaps

Many homes in Glen Ellyn built from the 1940s through the 1970s have stone or concrete block foundations that have developed long-term cracks and gaps. Many of the neighborhoods that lie near Roosevelt Road and St. Charles Road have foundation types that were not built to the same pest prevention standards we see now. When materials settle and age, small gaps, some no larger than a dime, emerge and become highways for mice and rats looking for shelter.

Outdated Construction Materials and Methods

Older homes in Glen Ellyn tended to use construction techniques that favored cost-efficiency over pest exclusion. This era of wood framing rarely has rodent-proof seals and modern barriers. Finally, the original insulation products used in these homes can actually serve as excellent nesting materials for rodents once the rodents gain access.

Established Landscaping Creates Rodent Highways

The same mature oak and maple trees that give Glen Ellyn its historic character also provide natural highways for rodents. Decades of tree branch growth that converge in rooflines are easy access routes; established shrubs and overgrown landscaping near foundations are perfect hiding spots and protected travel corridors for mice and rats.

What Can You Do To Prevent Rodent Infestations in Glen Ellyn?

Seal Entry Points Around Your Property

Examine where utility lines come into your house for trouble spots, perhaps around older electrical or plumbing lines, which can be seen in homes located near the Metra station area, to pinpoint Glen Ellyn’s specific problems. Seal gaps near pipes using some steel wool and caulk, and also place door sweeps on outside doors. Be particularly vigilant with garage doors; since the garages in many Glen Ellyn homes are detached garages, they may become stepping stones for rodents to advance to the house.

Maintain Your Landscaping Like a Glen Ellyn Pro

Cut tree branches to be a minimum of six feet from your roofline, as many of the large mature trees common in Glen Ellyn’s older neighborhoods can be less forgiving. Trim shrubs away from your foundation, and clear debris piles where rodents may create nests. Keep in mind, Glen Ellyn gets about 38 inches of snow a year, so your winter lawn maintenance may not be doing you any favors if that gives them areas to build nests close to the outside of your house.

Implement Smart Storage Solutions

Place pet food, birdseed, and other attractants in sealed metal or glass containers. This is especially important in Glen Ellyn, where many homes have older pantries and items that were never considered for pest prevention. These spaces in older homes always provide perfect nesting areas for pests, so keep your basement and attic areas clean and tidy.

Take Action Today: Protect Your Glen Ellyn Home with Professional Help

Rodent infestation can jeopardize the comfort and health of your family in your Glen Ellyn home. Prevention measures certainly will help; however, many older properties need a proper and detailed in-home inspection to identify all potential entry points and nesting sites that a trained eye would miss.

Thousands of Glen Ellyn homeowners have already escaped unwanted rodent infestations thanks to the experts at Pointe Pest Control. With Glen Ellyn’s older housing stock and changing seasonal conditions, their local technicians know the unique challenges.