As Margate homeowners begin to leave their homes for the winter, or have wider gaps between visits, a different kind of visitor might be moving in: mice. Vacation homes, especially those left vacant during the colder months can quickly become the perfect hiding place for rodents seeking warmth and shelter. Fortunately, many South Jersey homeowners are getting proactive this year. Here’s how they’re preventing mice from turning their shore escapes into winter hideouts.
Mice only need a hole the size of a dime to sneak in. That’s why Margate homeowners are taking time in early fall to inspect the exterior of their homes for cracks, gaps, and holes, especially around utility lines, vents, foundations, and siding.
Pro Tip: Use steel wool and caulk to fill small holes. For larger gaps, consider expanding foam or a combination of hardware cloth and sealant for a longer-lasting barrier. Most pest control companies will come out and do an inspection to identify areas where mice might be getting in.
Leftover crumbs and pantry items are like an open invitation to rodents. Savvy vacation homeowners are doing a deep clean before locking up for the season. Be sure to thoroughly hit the kitchen and anywhere else food and crumbs might have been left.
Checklist:
● Empty all pantry items (including pet food and birdseed)
● Vacuum floors and wipe down all surfaces
● Don’t forget to clean under the stove and fridge
Mice love to make nests from soft, fibrous materials like paper towels, napkins, cardboard boxes, and even old beach towels. Homeowners are taking steps to store these items in airtight plastic bins or remove them entirely.
If you store anything in the attic or basement, opt for sealed plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes. This also protects your belongings from moisture damage.
Garage doors, utility rooms, and crawl space entries are common weak spots. A rodent-proof door sweep (typically made of rubber) can prevent mice from squeezing in under the door.
This simple upgrade is something Margate homeowners are doing now to stop problems before they start.
Mice often use overgrown shrubs, vines, or stacked firewood as a highway into the home. Homeowners are getting ahead of the issue by trimming back vegetation and moving wood piles at least 20 feet away from the house.
Also, check that mulch isn't piled too high near the foundation. Keep a clear, dry barrier of gravel or stone to discourage nesting.
Some homeowners are turning to natural repellents like peppermint oil, clove oil, or ultrasonic devices to deter rodents without chemicals. While not foolproof on their own, these methods can add an extra layer of protection when used alongside proper sealing and sanitation.
Try This: Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them in cabinets, under sinks, and near suspected entry points.
For extra peace of mind and the best way to ensure you won’t have uninvited friends still in your home when you return for the spring, many Margate homeowners are working with local pest control companies who offer offseason check-ins or preventative treatments. This is especially helpful if you’re out of town for several months and want someone to monitor your property for signs of activity.
Here are a few top-rated, local pest control companies:
ELDER is a locally owned pest control company based in Linwood, NJ. They have been serving the shore since 1997 and have stellar online reviews for rodents, termites, ants, spiders, and more.
Western Pest is a larger company with a franchise branch located in Egg Harbor Township. They have been known to treat rodents in Margate and Ventnor.
