How can you drive rats out from under the floor? - briefly
Seal all gaps and cracks leading to the subfloor, then use snap traps, bait stations, or ultrasonic repellents to remove the rodents; follow with thorough cleaning and removal of food sources to prevent re‑infestation.
How can you drive rats out from under the floor? - in detail
Rats living in the cavity below flooring must be removed before they cause structural damage or health hazards. The process consists of assessment, exclusion, attraction, removal, and prevention.
First, locate all possible entry points. Inspect the perimeter of the room, the foundation, utility penetrations, and any gaps around vents or pipes. Use a flashlight and a mirror to see into tight spaces. Mark each opening with chalk or tape.
Second, seal the openings. Apply steel wool or copper mesh to small cracks, then cover with expanding polyurethane foam or cement. For larger gaps, install metal flashing or hardware cloth (¼‑inch mesh) and secure with screws. Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting sweeps.
Third, create an environment that encourages the rodents to leave the hidden area. Reduce food sources by storing grain, pet food, and garbage in sealed containers. Eliminate water leaks and dampness, which attract rodents.
Fourth, deploy control devices within the subfloor space:
- Snap traps: place three to five per 100 sq ft, positioned along walls and near known runways. Use fresh bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or bacon.
- Live‑capture cages: set in the same locations if relocation is preferred. Check traps at least twice daily.
- Poison baits: use approved rodenticide blocks or pellets, placed in tamper‑proof stations outside the living area to prevent accidental exposure to children or pets.
Fifth, monitor activity. Look for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or urine trails. Replace bait regularly and reset traps until no new captures occur for several days.
Sixth, conduct a thorough cleanup. Remove dead rodents, dispose of them in sealed bags, and disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Vacuum all crevices to eliminate scent trails that could attract survivors.
Finally, implement long‑term prevention. Maintain a clear perimeter by trimming vegetation away from the building, storing firewood off the ground, and installing a continuous barrier of metal flashing around the foundation. Schedule periodic inspections, especially after extreme weather, to detect new breaches early.
If infestation persists despite these measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can provide advanced techniques such as ultrasonic repellents, rodent‑proofing of structural elements, and safe application of stronger rodenticides.