How to Prevent Common Household Pests Year-Round
Preventing common household pests isn’t usually a one-and-done solution; in fact, there are several factors which can affect how likely pests are to enter your home. Luckily, there are some simple home improvement DIYs you can incorporate into your home maintenance routine which will help minimize pest issues.
What is Pest Proofing?
Pest proofing is a process in which methods of entry for common household pests such as roaches, spiders, and rodents, are checked and sealed. By taking measures to keep pests out before they make it inside to start with, the chances of infestations and future pest sightings are significantly reduced.
10 Easy DIYs to Prevent Common Household Pests
- Minimize Entry Points
The simplest way to keep pests out? Make it where they can’t get in! Be sure to check for cracks and holes outside your home, as well as open spots like pipes or utility hookups. And, don’t forget that pests can come in right through an open door, garage, pet door, or window, too!
2. Keep Trees and Shrubs Trimmed
Overgrown vegetation doesn’t just house pests, but can also serve as a highway for them to drive straight into your house. Keep your trees and shrubs trimmed back at least 2-3 feet to prevent pest infestations
3. Increase Ventilation
Just like humans, pests have basic needs like shelter, food, and you guessed it—water. To minimize moisture in areas like your basement, crawl space, or attic, which are common breeding grounds for pests, increase the ventilation in those areas and make sure they’re staying dry.
4. Securely Store Garbage
Be sure to take your garbage out of your house regularly to deter pests and store your trash outside in a sealed trash can with the lid securely shut so pests don’t gain access.
5. Clean Drains
Do you have any clogged drains? This could be attracting pests! Regularly inspect and clean your drains to minimize harborage sites.
6. Rinse Recyclables
Moisture and sugar are often in recyclables, and just happen to be two of pests’ favorite things. Be sure to rinse out any recyclables like soda bottles or cans to help minimize pest invasions.
7. Get Rid of Items You Don’t Need
You don’t have to wait until spring to do a little cleaning! Pests like mice love hiding in cluttered areas and can easily go unnoticed until it’s too late.
8. Store Firewood Properly
To prevent bringing pests in your home, firewood should always be stored in a dry area at least 20 feet away from your house and 5 inches off the ground.
9. Replace Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is one of your home’s first lines of defense against common household pests, and it needs to be replaced from time to time! Do an inspection around your home’s doors and see if it’s time for a refresh.
10. Caulk Around Your Windows and Doors
Similarly to weather stripping, the caulk around your windows and doors also plays a significant role in keeping pests out before they get in—check around your home and re-caulk as necessary.
Choose an Annual Pest Control Plan for 24/7 Coverage
To knock out pests most effectively, the best companion to your home pest proofing efforts is an annual pest control plan. We offer a variety of green pest control options so you’re sure to find the right plan to fit your home’s needs while keeping your family and the planet safe!
To schedule an inspection now, call (800) 244-7378.
