‘Twas the night before Christmas,
And all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring,
Except for that…mouse?!
Santa Claus is just about the only unexpected guest we want in our homes during the winter. Even though pests are more active when it’s warm, it’s important to stay diligent all year ‘round to make sure your home stays free from intruders.
Here are a few ways you can prevent pests from entering your home this winter.
Cover Outside Openings
One of the best ways to make sure pests can’t get inside your home is to make sure entry is as tough as possible. Mice, spiders, roaches and other bugs are masters of maneuvering their way through the tiniest openings and are able to squeeze through the smallest of spaces. Take a look around the foundation of your home and seal up any visible cracks you can find with heavy duty caulk. In addition to cutting down on your heating bills, weatherstripping around windows and doorways work great for keeping out pests seeking refuge from the cold. Placing screens over outdoor vents and chimneys are also a great way to keep out larger pests such as raccoons and squirrels.
Keep Food Airtight
Pests are always on the hunt for sources of food. In the warmer months, outdoor food sources such as grass and other vegetation are plentiful, so most of them stay outside where they belong. However, when food becomes scarce in the winter, they tend to venture indoors for something to eat. This is why it’s important to keep things like pet food and other edibles in airtight containers. Ants, roaches and other insects will find their way into anything that isn’t properly sealed and set up camp for the winter. Make sure to properly dispose of food waste and keep your trash sealed as well. No feast is beneath a pest!
Remove Moisture
In addition to seeking out sources of food, pests are also in constant search of water. The tiniest leaks and small amounts of moisture in our home can provide water for pests all winter long. Take care of leaks in your bathroom, under the sink and anywhere else they may occur in your home to reduce the risk of attracting pests. If your basement naturally retains moisture as many do throughout the winter, a dehumidifier is a great way to keep the environment dry and less desirable for pests.
Check Wires, Walls and Insulation
Unfortunately, even with the utmost care and attention, pests can still find their way into your homes for the winter. Before they make themselves at home, you can check for a few telltale signs and give us a call to take care of the problem. One of the most common signs of a pest infestation is droppings or debris, specifically along the walls of your basement. Chewed or frayed wires are another indicator that a rodent pest has made its way indoors. Scratched insulation or holes in the wall are yet another indication that you may have a pest problem. If you notice any of these signs of an infestation, give us a call today! We’ll take care of the problem and give you and your family peace of mind all winter long.
