As the weather changes and becomes colder, we want to stay indoors and keep warm. However, so do many critters and pests too. They are known to frequent homes looking for warmth and shelter during the colder months, and for homeowners, this can be a massive nightmare. Knowing how best to protect your home during this period can help you remove unwanted pests and avoid the damage that comes with an infestation.
Fill in Gaps
Small foundation cracks exist in almost every home, and while they are not normally a structural hazard, they are ideal for allowing pests to enter. Sealing up these cracks can prevent rodents and other crawling pests from finding a cozy warm location to spend the winter in your home or business. Watch out for cracks in the brick mortar and the points at which pipes and other utility lines enter the building. Inspect your doors and windows for any cracks or damage, and make sure your window screens are in good working order.
A mouse can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime, which may surprise you! Moreover, if you have one mouse, likely, other mice will soon come to your aid and join the celebrations. At this point, it might be best to contact pest control services to help to eliminate the problem.
Eliminate Leaks
Pests hunting for water can be attracted to moist areas such as leaky pipes and clogged drains, among other things. Cockroaches prefer damp environments such as bathrooms and kitchens, which are ideal for breeding. Inspect your property for any leaky pipes, clogged rain gutters, or other spots where moisture can collect and condense.
Remove Hiding Places
Maintain a distance of at least 20 feet between any mounds of debris (such as leaves and firewood) and your home. Mice, rats, and insects would likely seek shelter in these areas; you do not want those pesky little rascals anywhere near your property. You could also enlist the help of local pest control services which have a vast amount of knowledge and experience in identifying and eliminating potential hiding spots. This will save you a lot of time and energy while ensuring your home remains pest-free.
Any storage you keep outside, in your garage, or a shed should be kept neat and orderly so rodents cannot take advantage of the situation. Boxes should be stored above the ground level, and plastic containers should be preferred over cardboard boxes. The requirement of cleanliness applies in particular to any areas where food is kept in storage. Inspect lids to ensure they are airtight and rodent-proof.
Keep Floors Clean and Tidy
Keeping on top of your home cleaning can help you to avoid unwanted pests. Many rodents and insects can be attracted to food and debris that isn’t cleared up frequently. This includes cleaning up inside and outside, including areas where pets eat too can help you avoid leaving attractive options for pests around your home.
Insecticide Barrier
Use an insecticide barrier purchased from a hardware store to help you create a barrier for further protection for your home. Use it as directed on the label to ensure you use it correctly and get the maximum benefit from the barrier.