Does decking attract rats?

Spring is getting closer and closer by the day, and we don’t know about you – but we can’t wait! You might have already started thinking about your garden, and if this year you’re considering installing some stylish composite decking but you’ve heard the urban legend that decking attracts rats – don’t worry! We’ve got all the info you need to separate fact from fiction.

At North Valley Composites, we have a stunning selection of composite decking options that are perfect for upgrading your garden this Spring. Whether you’re after a sleek, modern finish or a more natural look, our durable and low-maintenance decking boards have you covered!

Does decking attract rats?

The short answer? No, decking doesn’t attract rats. This is just an urban myth. While rats, like the Brown Rat, may be drawn to gardens, it’s not the decking itself that brings them in. These adaptable rodents are abundant in the UK, and they’re found in nearly every habitat, from city streets to farmland, thriving on the food and shelter available. Brown Rats, in particular, help clean up after humans, scavenging our discarded food and waste, and even play a role in the food chain for predators like foxes and birds of prey.

So, if you see the occasional rat, don’t worry – it has nothing to do with how clean and tidy you are! Rats are just around, part of the urban and rural landscape. Despite their importance in nature, you probably still don’t want them in your garden! While decking itself isn’t the issue, there are some simple ways to ensure your outdoor space stays as rat-free as possible.

How to keep rats away from your garden and decking

When it comes to keeping the rats at bay, it’s all about prevention rather than cure. Rats are opportunistic creatures, so they gravitate towards food, water, and shelter. So make sure you’re regularly cleaning up pet food, bird seed, any fallen fruit if you have fruit trees, BBQ remnants and anything else that could make a tasty snack. Maintaining your garden by mowing the lawn, trimming hedges, and removing overgrown plants is another good way to keep them at bay because it can eliminate potential cosy hiding spots.

Keep compost bins well-managed by placing them on hard surfaces and turning them regularly. Adding strong-smelling plants into your garden or planters, like garlic, lavender, and mint, can also act as natural deterrents. You won’t be able to smell them, but the rats will!

What to do if you spot rats in your garden

If you do find rats in your garden, don’t worry – there’s a humane way to handle it! Using a non-lethal trap, you can catch the rats and release them far away from your home. You can keep the trap on hand just in case you need it again in the future. After all, rats are always on the lookout for food and shelter, so if you take them far enough away, they’ll likely find a new place to settle down.

Now that we’ve cleared up any doubts about decking and rats, it’s time to focus on the fun part – choosing your perfect composite decking! With Spring just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start transforming you for the year ahead. At North Valley Composites, we offer a stunning selection of decking options, from the sleek and modern Black Ash to the warm and inviting Golden Oak and the effortless Driftwood. Whatever your style, we’ve got the perfect decking for you. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly team at 01282 677300. We’re here to help!