Steel wool, a bundle of steel filaments that is commonly used for cleaning, may be one of pest control’s oldest tools in the box for preventing rodents.
The product has been made under many brands, most notably S.O.S. steel wool pads, has been around since the 1800s and continues to be a mainstream cleaning product.
However, in pest control the product is used as a quick but 100 percent effective fix to stop rodents from entering a home or building through an opening. Typically over time, utility and other penetrations jiggle and eventually create openings next to them. The steel wool is shoved in the opening because mice and rats cannot chew through it.
Prevention is a big part of exclusion, which is a cornerstone of pest control’s IPM (Integrated Pest Management) program. The focus of IPM is to assess and then control pests and rodents by using fewer chemicals if possible.
For mice, the other area to prevent them from entering a home is under a doorway. Burrtec’s door sweeps are known as premium solutions, and they prevent mice and rats from entering.
Another entry to the home is through the garage. Ratshut by Burrtec is a stainless-steel spine-backed product and an essential tool for maintenance and facility managers, pest control professionals, and garage door installers. Burrtec’s door sweeps can protect from rodent infestations, as well as stop dust, dirt, and pollen.
Burrtec USA is a leading manufacturer of door sweep solutions, providing quality exclusion products to PMPs and building material suppliers. It is the North American division of Burrtec Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s largest pest control producers. To learn more about Burrtec, visit our U.S. website.