A steel shed is an ideal storage space for all your tools, equipment and other important items. However, it can be appealing to wildlife, especially mice, rats and certain insects. Once they move into your steel shed, they can damage your belongings, spread diseases and deteriorate the materials and components of the whole structure. As the local source of pre-engineered steel buildings, we recommend these tips to keep small critters out of your shed.
Seal the Area Around the Foundation
If the shed is installed directly on top of bare soil, rodents and other small critters can get inside by burrowing through the dirt. Thus, the base should be surrounded by wire mesh to prevent them from moving inside. Installing a shed on top of a concrete foundation slab, however, creates a tightly sealed seam around the base of the walls, effectively keeping mice and rats out.
Patch Up Gaps and Cracks
Even when the base of the shed’s walls are tightly sealed, be sure to check the other areas for gaps and cracks where pests could enter. Seal doors and windows with foam weatherstripping to close up gaps that could let insects or mice into the building.
Use Pest Deterrents
An example of a pest deterrent includes strong-scented natural oils like peppermint and cedar. These can be applied around the metal shed or near fencing equipment. Repellents that utilize sound and light are likewise popular, although they are not always effective in preventing larger insects or pests. Traps can also be used, providing far better results than rat poison and other poisonous baits.
Get Rid of Food Sources
One of the reasons why mice, rats and insects enter your shed is because of the smell of food. If you have sacks of dog food or other food sources stored inside, consider relocating them. It is a simple but effective method of keeping pests out.
Metal Warehouse Inc. is the go-to source of metal construction products, including frames for red iron steel buildings and metal carport kits. Give us a call at (903) 465-6699, or fill out our contact form to request a quote.
