Winter Pest Prevention: How to Keep Rodents Out During the Holidays

As the snow starts to fall and the holiday season brings festivities to homes and businesses across Langley, Aldergrove, and Clayton Heights, pests like mice and rats are also looking for a warm place to spend the winter. At Armoured Pest Control, we understand how holiday gatherings, extra food storage, and colder weather create the perfect storm for rodent infestations. Keeping your space pest-free during winter is crucial for your peace of mind and the safety of your loved ones. Here’s how you can prevent rodents from turning your holiday haven into theirs.

Why Rodents Seek Shelter During Winter

Rodents, especially mice and rats, are highly adaptive creatures. As temperatures drop, their instinct drives them indoors in search of warmth, food, and shelter. Holiday activities—like storing extra baking supplies, hosting parties, and stashing away leftovers—can unintentionally provide rodents with easy access to food and cozy nesting spots. Once inside, these pests can contaminate food, damage property, and even spread diseases.

Common Entry Points for Rodents

Understanding where rodents are getting in is the first step to keeping them out. Rodents are masters at squeezing through incredibly tiny spaces—mice can enter through gaps as small as a dime, while rats only need a hole the size of a quarter. Common entry points include:

• Gaps around doors and windows
• Cracks in foundations or siding
• Unsealed utility openings (such as pipes and vents)
• Garage doors that don’t sit flush
• Basement windows or crawl spaces
• Vents without screens

Inspect these areas regularly, especially as winter approaches, to spot and seal any potential rodent entry routes.

Holiday Habits That May Invite Rodents

The festive season often means more food, decorations, and clutter—perfect conditions for rodents to thrive. Some common holiday habits that attract pests include:

• Storing holiday treats and pantry foods in unsealed containers
• Leaving pet food or snacks out overnight
• Letting trash pile up after parties
• Using cardboard boxes for decorations and storage (rodents love to chew on cardboard)
• Overlooking regular cleaning in busy areas like kitchens or basements

Simple Steps for Effective Winter Pest Prevention

1. Seal Up Your Home or Business

Carefully check the exterior and interior for cracks, holes, and gaps. Use weather-resistant caulk or copper wool to fill small openings. Ensure that doors and windows close tightly, and install door sweeps if needed. Screen all vents and repair damaged window screens.

2. Store Food Securely

Place all pantry goods, pet food, and holiday treats in airtight containers. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately, and avoid leaving food out overnight. Take out the trash regularly and use bins with tight-fitting lids.

3. Declutter and Organize

Minimize clutter in garages, basements, and storage areas, as rodents love nesting in piles of boxes, papers, or unused holiday décor. Store items in plastic totes with secure lids instead of cardboard boxes.

4. Maintain the Perimeter

Keep shrubs, firewood, and debris at least a metre away from your home or building foundation. Trim back branches that could give rodents easy roof access. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear to prevent moisture buildup that attracts pests.

5. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Don’t wait for signs of a rodent infestation to show up. Armoured Pest Control offers expert inspections to spot vulnerabilities before rodents get in. Our technicians use advanced tools and local expertise to identify entry points, recommend tailored solutions, and implement long-lasting prevention strategies unique to your property.

Signs You May Have Rodents

If you notice droppings, gnaw marks, foul odours, or scratching noises—especially at night—inside your walls or attic, these are common indicators of rodent activity. Don’t ignore these signs; early intervention is key to keeping your holidays pest-free.

Why Choose Armoured Pest Control?

Armoured Pest Control is your trusted local partner for winter pest prevention in Langley, Aldergrove, Clayton Heights, and neighbouring areas. Our 90-day guarantee, eco-friendly solutions, and commitment to thorough, no-shortcut service mean you and your guests can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.

Book Your Winter Rodent Prevention Service Today!

The holidays should be about joy and celebration, not unwelcome rodent guests. Take action now to ensure your home or business stays protected all winter long. Contact Armoured Pest Control for a personalized inspection, expert advice, and reliable rodent-proofing services tailored to your needs. Call us today or visit www.armouredpest.ca to book your appointment and start your pest-free holiday season.

Protect your home, protect your peace—choose Armoured Pest Control this winter!