Use chew-proof materials like stainless steel mesh (1/4-inch), steel wool (packed tightly with caulk), or concrete. Avoid using only expanding foam, as rats can chew through it.
Look for fresh droppings (1–2 cm), greasy rub marks along walls (smear marks), gnaw marks on wood or wires, and active burrows in the garden.
Getting rid of requires a multi-layered approach called , which focuses on removing their survival essentials: food, water, and shelter . 1. Identify Entry Points and Signs
Install metal door sweeps, cover vents with mesh, and seal gaps around utility lines and pipes. 3. Sanitation (Remove Survival Resources)
Rats can squeeze through gaps as small as 0.5 inches (about the size of a quarter). Check around pipes, vents, door sweeps, and rooflines. 2. Exclusion (Proofing Your Home)
Rats are nocturnal and adaptable, so you must first find where they are active.
If rats can't find food or water, they are less likely to stay. How To Get Rid of Rats - Busy Bins
Sealing entry points is the most essential long-term step to prevent a comeback.