A roof rat is a black rat that climbs that live in your attic. A standard roof rat’s size is 13 to 18 inches long. Some roof rats can also weigh up to 9 ounces.
They are excellent climbers and can get in through any opening. That includes any damaged roofs that may have open holes in the shingles.
If you find a roof rat, act fast. More roof problems could happen by more rats infiltrating buildings. Shingles, tiling, and more could be eliminated by this type of pest.
How can I spot them?
You may first notice them when you hear clawing or gnawing sounds in your attic. Also, you can find them by small droppings left around the home.
Also, you can find marks on the bottom or edges of walls. These could be a combination of scratch marks and oil or dirt left behind from the rat.
What kind of damage do they do?
These rats can scratch their way into any type of roof and set up a nest. If you have suffered problems from water or hail, rodents will find it. They will burrow into the home through the roof, leaving your house and attic susceptible to attacks from the outside elements and other mice.
Not only will they chew through your ceiling, but they will also chew through insulation, pipes, wires, upholstery, and more. Rat waste can also create conditions for mold and bacteria to flourish. Along with the allergens, your home’s structural integrity could be put at risk.
How do I prevent roof rats?
Look for any cracks in the roofing. An inspection team can assure you of the quality of your roof. You could do the work yourself by getting on top of your home, but take major precautions. An inspection team can be more effective and get your home under control.
Keep an eye out for nickel-sized holes or larger. Roof rats can burrow these small holes. Patch these, and then look around for any other entry points.
Also, notice any weak shingles. Are any shingles peeled back, crumbling, or cracking? A thin shingle can be compromised or fall off with any effort from a rat.
Get rid of any dense greens or debris around the home. Rats feed on seeds, nuts, fruit, and other food that lay around. A well-manicured lawn will keep away food sources for the rat to eat.
When rats are inside, you may need to call a rodent control expert for other methods. Set wooden rat traps along with bait or other food in problem areas like the attic. Seal any holes on the inside and get rid of anything that a mouse may hide in, such as unused furniture or fabrics.
Where do they come from?
Roof rats come from dense vegetation, such as forests, grass, bushes, trees, and more. When they leave, they move from the ground to the upper levels of the home.
They arrived in Austin in 2011, which forced wildlife to travel out into the woods. The emptier cities allowed rats to enter the city. The rats then made their way into residential roofs to avoid the heat, spreading fast.
Need to prevent roof rats?
The first preventative measure is calling Ja-Mar Roofing & Sheet Metal. Serving Austin and its surrounding cities since 1970, they have dealt with holes caused by pests. Inspections and repairs from Ja-Mar get your home back under your control.
Take the first step and call Ja-Mar Roofing & Sheet Metal today to prevent more pest problems.
