Fall is in full swing in the Hampton Roads area with cooler temperatures driving many bugs out of sight. However, out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind; when you don’t see pests outdoors it may be because they are taking shelter in or around your house. The most common unwanted house guests this time of year include rodents, crickets, spiders, and roaches. You can keep your home pest-free by taking these steps:
Seal cracks and openings around your home.
The main way that bugs and rodents enter a home is through cracks or openings in the foundation, basement, attic, or crawlspace and around windows and doors. Use an expanding foam to fill these openings so that pests can’t gain access into your house.
Keep food stored tightly and take out trash regularly.
A clean house will go a long way in keeping bugs away. Properly seal all food or use food storage containers. Food should be kept off the ground (including pet food). Use heavy-duty trash bags and clean food containers before tossing them in the trash.
Take care of your firewood.
Pests—in particular ants, rodents, and termites—love to live in piles of wood. To prevent this, keep firewood dry by covering it with a trap and store it away from trees. Wood should be kept a minimum of 20 feet from the house so it’s harder for pests to find their way inside.
Block your chimney.
Pests can also make their way into the home through the chimney. Add a chimney cap or install a chimney screen to prevent them from getting indoors. You should also have your chimney swept and cleaned each year to remove any debris that might be attracting pests.
Check for moisture.
Leaky pipes or fixtures offer a water source for pests that may be living in your home. If you have a plumbing issue, get it fixed promptly. Don’t forget about the outside of your home as well; remove any standing water in birdbaths, planters, and other fixtures.
Work with a pest control service.
In addition to taking these practical DIY steps, a partnership with a home pest control company can help to put you one step ahead of the game. At HomePro Pest Control, we offer regular inspection and treatment to keep pests under control. And if they do make their way inside of the home, we will return to get them out.