What Is Exclusion in Pest Control? Learn About This Critter Containment Method

Roaches and wasps and mice, oh my. Pest control can be a constant struggle for a homeowner. If you’ve been working to keep critters from taking up residence where they aren’t supposed to, you may be wondering what exclusion in pest control is and if it’s effective. The goal of the exclusion method is to proactively keep pests from getting inside your home in the first place. Learn why you should consider the exclusion method if you want a chemical-free approach to pest management. 

What Is Exclusion in Pest Control?

Exclusion is often one component of an IPM (integrated pest management) program, and it involves repairing or sealing off any entry points for pests so they cannot get access to your home. The basic idea is very old: Before widespread insecticides and other chemical forms of pest control, people would store food high up on platforms out of reach from small home invaders.

The Pest Exclusion Process

The exclusion process in pest control involves several steps—the key is being thorough and checking all areas of access to your home.

1. Assess Your Home

To start, you’ll want to inspect your home for any places where pests could get inside or nest. Walk around your property looking for any holes, vents, or gaps. Common places to look include:

• Utility line entry points

• Windows

• Doors 

• Chimney area

• Garage

A thorough inspection is best performed by a local pest control company, as they will have a better understanding of the types of pests present in your area and how they commonly get inside homes. In addition, they will be able to check and confirm there are not any active infestations. The cost for a pest inspection is between $125 and $450, on average.

2. Seal Cracks and Holes

Pests are known for their ability to get through very tiny holes and cracks. Cockroaches can flatten their bodies to sneak under small clearings, and mice can get through a hole the size of a dime. Have a local handyperson caulk around any openings that you find—a pest control company, if hired, can do this work as well. 

3. Create Obstacles

Install copper or metal mesh over drainpipes and vents to deter pests from getting inside. The mesh will allow water or air to flow but will become an obstacle to unwanted visitors such as rats, birds, or bats. Copper is the more expensive material, but it doesn’t stain or rust—a nice bonus. 

4. Cut Off "Bridges"

Trees or other vegetation that touch a building provide “bridges” for pests to get on the roof or other parts of your home. Trim back any plants that come too close to your home to prevent squirrels, birds, rats, and other critters from easily accessing your home.

The Benefits of Pest Exclusion 

There are several reasons to consider pest exclusion as a core component of your IPM plan. 

• Fewer chemicals: You might not want heavy insecticides or rodenticides to be used on your property—maybe you have young kids or pets, or you simply worry about their larger effect on the ecosystem. Either way, implementing exclusion is a chemical-free pest management option.

• Proactive: If you are not currently dealing with an infestation, exclusion can help prevent one from happening in the first place.

• Targets multiple pests: Sealing your home doesn’t just ensure that mice can’t get in. A proper exclusion plan should exclude all critters, from bats to cockroaches. 

• Energy-efficient: By sealing cracks and holes, you are boosting your home’s efficiency, which over time could result in lower energy bills.