One thing I love about fall and winter is returning to a warm and cozy home. A fire in the fireplace, watching a movie or family game night are great ways to spend the cold nights at home.
Unfortunately, you’re probably not the only one loving your cozy home. Bugs and other pests try to make their way into your home at this time of the year as outdoor temperatures drop. Taking the proper precautions now, as well as throughout the year, can help pest-proof your home. Winterizing and pest-proofing your home is important not just to avoid seeing scary spiders or crickets, but to also keep out more destructive pests such as mice, rats, ants or termites.
A thorough pest control inspection of your home or office can head off major headaches and unwelcome houseguests. Pest exclusion – keeping them outside – is the best form of pest control. Once inside, pests can be difficult to reach, likely begin nesting and reproducing and cause physical damage. They will also likely leave behind waste, which can spread disease and will try to get into your food.
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This year’s wet summer may have contributed to wood rot. It’s important to repair or replace damaged wood to avoid attracting termites and other wood destroying insects, such as carpenter ants. Rotted wood can also allow rodents including mice and rats easy access. Replace damaged wood boards and use caulk to seal cracks, crevices and replace grouting. Mice can squeeze through tiny holes.
Depending on your skills or time, it may be helpful to hire a handyman to do some of these small jobs. Pest control professionals, including our technicians, often can seal and caulk small holes.
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In addition to sealing and plugging holes, which will also help keep the heat in and the cold out, here are some additional steps to take:
- Inspect attic vents and screens leading to your clothes dryer, cooktops and other vents.
- A professional chimney sweep will not only make sure your chimney is safe, but can remove birds or other animals that may be stuck and install proper caps to keep animals out.
- Inspect and repair caulking and weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Rake and remove leaves around the home to remove harborage and food sources for insects as well as rodents.
- Inspect, stack and cover firewood. Damaged wood should be removed to avoid attracting insects including termites and carpenter ants. Wood should not be located near structures, which could attract wood destroying insects and other pests to your home.
For more information and a free pest inspection, visit www.mypestpros.com or contact us at 703-665-4455.
