Seasonal pest-proofing habits will help keep year-round pest control to a minimum
As a homeowner, one of your ongoing battles is keeping pests out of your living spaces. From tiny bugs to sneaky rodents, unwelcome pest guests can disrupt your peace of mind and even pose health risks to our families. But fear not! With the right strategies and a bit of diligence, you can effectively pest-proof your home year-round. Let's dive into the ultimate guide to seasonal pest-proofing and safeguarding your home against intruders.
Spring
As the weather warms up, pests become more active, seeking shelter and food indoors. Spring is the perfect time to:
Inspect and seal cracks and crevices: Mice can enter through a hole the size of a dime, while rats only need a quarter-sized opening. Seal gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations with caulk or foam to prevent pests from sneaking in.
Check window screens: Ensure your window screens are properly fitted and free of tears or holes. Intact window screens help keep out flying insects like mosquitoes and flies.
Clean gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can become breeding grounds for pests and provide easy access to your home. Keep gutters clear of debris and ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
Summer
As temperatures rise, pests become more active outdoors, but they may still seek refuge indoors. To prevent summer pest invasions:
Maintain landscaping: Trim bushes and trees away from the house to eliminate pathways for pests to enter. Keep grass trimmed and remove any standing water to deter mosquitoes from breeding.
Secure food storage: Store pantry items in airtight containers to prevent ants, roaches, and other pantry pests from infesting your kitchen and ruining your food.
Fall
As temperatures cool, pests start seeking warm shelter for the winter months. Take these steps to fortify your home against fall invaders:
Seal entry points: Inspect your home's exterior for cracks, gaps, and openings where pests could enter. Pay special attention to areas around pipes, vents, and utility lines.
Repair weather stripping: Replace worn or damaged weather stripping around doors and windows to create a tight seal and prevent pests from squeezing through gaps.
Clean outdoor debris: Remove leaves, mulch, and other debris from your yard and around your house's foundation to eliminate hiding spots for pests like spiders and rodents.
Winter
While many pests become less active in winter, they will still seek refuge indoors. To keep your home pest-free during the colder months:
Inspect and repair garage door thresholds: Ensure your garage door shuts tightly and replace worn thresholds to prevent pests from sneaking in under the door.
Store firewood away from the house: Keep firewood stacked at least 20 feet away from the house and elevated off the ground to deter pests like termites and ants.
Monitor for signs of pest activity: Keep an eye out for droppings, gnaw marks, and other signs of pest infestation, and address any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.
By following these seasonal pest-proofing tips, you can protect your home year-round and enjoy a pest-free living environment. Consistency is key when it comes to pest control, so make pest prevention a regular part of your home maintenance routine.
If you'd like the peace of mind professional pest control can provide, give BREDA Pest Management a call. We can discuss potential pest infestations your house may be at risk for and then work with you to determine a pest prevention plan that works for your house and your budget.
With a little effort and vigilance, you can keep pests at bay and maintain a comfortable and healthy home for you and your family.
If you're tired of wondering what the pests in or around your home are doing and just want them gone, don't hesitate to give us a call. The BREDA Guarantee promises to protect your home and keep it protected—no matter the circumstances. Schedule an inspection online or give us a call at 770-466-6700.
