We’ve all been there. You’re all bundled up in bed. You’ve just laid down after a long day at the office. The stress of the day is finally leaving your mind and you’re on the verge of dreamland….. but you hear something. Something that isn’t supposed to be there, and it’s in your wall! Looks like we’re not going back to bed tonight.
The tranquility of your home can be disrupted when mysterious sounds emanate from within the walls. If you’ve been hearing peculiar noises, you might be sharing your space with unwanted guests. In this post, we’ll explore the common sounds associated with pests in your walls, identify potential culprits, and discuss effective steps to address and prevent these unwelcome intruders.
Recognizing Pest Sounds
1. Scratching or Scrabbling:
One of the most unnerving sounds is something scratching in the wall, sometimes right next to your head! This is often indicative of rodents. Rats and mice are constantly chewing on their environment, and when they’re in your house they will gnaw on wall studs and wiring.
2. Chirping or Chattering:
If you hear high-pitched chirping or chattering sounds, particularly during the night, it could be a sign of a potential bat infestation. Bats may roost in wall voids, attic spaces, chimneys, and gable vents. Once the sun goes down and they’re on the move you can hear all kinds of sounds.
3. Pitter-Patter or Footsteps:
Are you hearing distinct foot falls? This could indicate a larger critter like a squirrel, opossum, or raccoon.
4. Rustling or Flapping:
The sound of rustling or flapping wings might suggest the presence of birds like starlings. Starlings love to peck through the fascia vent screens and nest in your attic.
Identifying Potential Culprits
1. Rodents:
Mice and rats are notorious for seeking refuge in the homes. They can exploit some of the smallest gaps found around your home. Common entry points are gaps in s garage door sweep, damaged foundation vent screens, pet doors, construction gaps around dormers and roof returns.
2. Bats:
Bats can squeeze into gaps as small as 5/8 of an inch and roost in large numbers.
3. Squirrels:
Larger pests like squirrels chew large holes into your roofline. Typically they’ll find a damaged fascia vent or large construction gap in a dormer.
Addressing the Issue
1. Identify the Source:
Conduct a thorough investigation to pinpoint the location and potential entry points of the pests. Listen carefully and try to determine the frequency and timing of the sounds. Rodents, bats, and raccoons are all nocturnal and you won’t hear them during the day. Animals like birds and squirrels are diurnal, and you’ll normally hear them at dawn and dusk.
2. Consult Professionals:
If you’re unsure about the type of pests or if the infestation seems severe, it’s advisable to consult pest control professionals. They can assess the situation, identify the pests, and recommend effective solutions. Don’t just blindly go with the first pro you call, make sure you’re getting a free estimate and not paying up to $299 for someone to come look around and tell you they’re unable to solve it.
3. Seal Entry Points:
Once the pests have been removed, take measures to seal any entry points to prevent future infestations. Patch up holes, gaps, and cracks in walls and ensure proper ventilation to deter pests. Use proper materials for the animal that was removed, resist them temptation to do the cheap and easy expanding spray foam. That stuff works for bats and bugs, but anything else will go through it like tissue paper.
4. Regular Maintenance:
Implement regular maintenance routines to keep your home pest-free. Trim tree branches and bushes away from your house, store food properly, and conduct periodic inspections to catch potential issues early.
Conclusion
Unexplained sounds within your walls can be disconcerting, but understanding the potential culprits and taking proactive measures can help you regain peace of mind. Whether it’s rodents, insects, or larger animals, addressing the issue promptly is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your home. By decoding the mystery of these sounds, you can ensure a quiet and pest-free living space for you and your family.
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