Winter is coming! When winter hits, some pests take to hibernating while others seek food and shelter. If you don’t want your home to become a pest’s winter residence, here are the steps you need to keep your home pest-free this winter.
Fill Gaps
Mice and rats are one of the most common pests in America. They have the ability to fit through the tiniest of holes; mice can fit through a hole the size of a dime! Before hit winters, do a complete check around your home for any place that they could get through. If you find a hole, seal it up with caulk and steel wool.
If you happen to have a chimney, it is recommended to put a mesh or cap over the top to prevent larger pests, such as raccoons, from entering the house.
Seal Up Entries
Insects are also looking to come in from the cold, and they can do so through cracks around windows and doors as well. Ensure that your weatherstripping is in good condition before winter hits. If it isn’t, either replace or repair it.
The same goes for kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Pests need water, which is why finding spiders in the shower is so common!
Clean Up Storage
If your garage or basement is messy with piled up boxes, debris, or materials that you rarely touch, it is the perfect place for a mouse or rat to call home. By keeping these areas organized and clean, you will be more quickly able to identify any pest problems.
Take Out Trash
Pests are hungry in the winter, and they will follow their nose to any food source. Be sure to regularly take out your trash, compost, and recycling to prevent excess food smell in the house.
Keep the House Clean
Crumbs are one of the biggest attractions for tiny pests. If they can find food in your home, they will come back again and again. Be sure to wipe down counters, sweep, and vacuum regularly.
Maintain Landscaping
Landscaping is one way that pests can sneak into your home undetected, which is why it is vital to keep it maintained properly. It is recommended to:
- Trim trees and shrub away from the home
- Cut back overhanging limbs
- Divert standing water
- Store firewood at least 20 feet from the house and five inches off the ground
- Keep trash, recycling, and compost bins away from the house
Do Regular Checks
Pests are sneaky creatures! They will always search for new entry points or create an entry point themselves. Due to this, it is important to do regular checks around the home. If you see any entry points or signs of pests, you can take action against them right away.
Do you need help getting rid of your pests? We are here to help! Give us a call today for an estimate, and we will get your home pest-free in no time!