Four Ways to Pest-Proof– It’s Not Too Early!
Now that we’re well into the new year, many of us have made progress (or thrown in the towel) on our new year’s resolutions! A lot of people want to get in shape, save money, or make improvements to their home. So while you’re at it, why not add a new resolution to your list? As you think about the quality of life changes you want to make this year, consider adding pest-proofing to your list. It might be cold now, but pest season will be upon us soon enough. Before we know it, homeowners in Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut could be overrun with ants, spiders, cockroaches, rodents and more! Many pests don’t pose health risks, but some can carry certain diseases, like salmonella and hantavirus. It’s not too early to think about pest-proofing your home!
Keep the Kitchen Clean.
How do many insects get attracted to the inside of your home? You guessed it, food! Make sure you clean up the kitchen after each meal, dispose of garbage regularly and store food items in airtight containers. Don’t forget to check your pantry and clean out any old or expired food. Many a tiny pest has emerged from old cereal, flour or a box of crackers.
Seal it up!
One of the first rules of pest-proofing your home is removing the pest entry points! Rodents and other pests love sneaking through tiny openings– a mouse can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime! Try sealing any cracks and openings inside of the house with caulk, including spots where pipes and utilities enter. Replace or repair torn screens, and consider using door sweeps on exterior doors to help keep out unwanted visitors.
Prevent Moisture Spots.
Standing water, water-damaged wood, and moisture in general are one of the main attractors of many pests. Be sure to check pipes and plumbing for any leaks, clean up spills, and repair places where water could be getting into the home.
Don’t Forget About the Outdoors!
Despite the seemingly endless cold temps, take advantage of the occasional warm spell by pest-proofing the exterior of your home. Foundation cracks and openings can usually be sealed with simple copper mesh pads and/or pest foam. Warm spells are also a good opportunity to clean up around the yard and make it less appealing to mice. Piles of stored items or vegetation against your home's foundation are a sure way to invite mice and bugs into your home! Weather permitting, prevent ice dams by cleaning gutters so they’re free of debris, and make sure you have removed any dead bushes, branches or fallen leaves from the yard. Always store woodpiles at least 20 feet from the house, and brush off the wood before bringing it indoors.
These tips can help with pest-proofing your home so by the time spring rolls around, you’ll have a one-up on any potential invaders! As always, feel free to reach out to Graduate with any pest-related problems.
