Your home in Burke is your peaceful retreat. However, some pests may invade your space even if it’s well-sealed. Thankfully, you can take steps to make your home less appealing to these unwanted visitors. Pest control experts at Green Pest Services can protect your home and keep your family comfortable all year long. They will use advanced treatment methods to keep pests out for good. You can learn more about how they can help you handle pests by visiting greenpestservices.net. Below are steps you can take to control the presence of pests in your home:
Seal Up Possible Entry Points
Pests can enter your home through tiny gaps, cracks, and holes. Ants can slip through hairline spaces, while mice can squeeze through openings the size of a dime.
Also, spiders can take advantage of small gaps near doors and windows to gain entry.
Inspect your home’s exterior. Look for cracks along the foundation, loose siding, gaps around utility lines, and worn weatherstripping. Check door sweeps and window screens as well. Bugs and rodents can get inside through torn mesh or gaps at the bottom of doors.
Use caulk or sealant to close cracks and steel wool to plug larger gaps. Also, use new weatherstripping to close up the gap created when air and light seep through. Don’t forget to inspect your attic and basement, since these quiet areas can provide perfect pest access points.
Eliminate Food and Water Sources
Pests come into homes for food, water, and shelter. Cut off their access to the first two to remove much of their motivation to stick around.
Start in the kitchen. Wipe up crumbs and clean spills promptly. Also, store dry goods in sealed containers. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight, and keep garbage tightly closed. If possible, take out the trash regularly.
In addition, check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances like dishwashers or washing machines. Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes, while damp wood or standing moisture can draw termites and silverfish. Use a dehumidifier in basements and make sure gutters direct rainwater away from the foundation.
Keep Your Yard Tidy and Maintained
A well-kept yard boosts curb appeal and serves as a strong line of defense against pests. Many insects and rodents start outside before finding their way indoors. Different pests can hire in tall grass, piles of leaves, and overgrown shrubs.
Trim grass regularly and clear debris from your lawn. Keep mulch and woodpiles at least several feet from your foundation. Prune branches so they don’t touch walls or the roof. Pests often use these as bridges to reach higher entry points.
Mosquitoes thrive in stagnant water, so empty birdbaths, buckets, or plant saucers after rain. If you have outdoor lighting, consider using yellow bulbs. These bulbs attract fewer flying insects than white lights.
Store and Dispose of Trash Properly
The smell of food waste can draw rodents, raccoons, and insects from a surprising distance. Manage it carefully to prevent many infestations.
Use trash bins with tight-fitting lids inside and outside your home. Clean them regularly with soap or disinfectant to remove residue and odors. If you store bins outdoors, keep them on a concrete surface away from doors and windows to reduce the chance of pests wandering in.
Compost piles should also be maintained properly. Avoid placing them too close to your home and cover them to reduce odors. Also, use sealed bags or designated containers for yard waste.
Schedule Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Regular inspections help catch problems early. Spring and fall are ideal times to do a thorough check, but monthly walkthroughs can help keep your home pest-free all year.
Start indoors by checking basements, attics, and crawl spaces for droppings, nests, or signs of gnawing. Look behind appliances and under sinks for moisture or crumbs. Also, inspect your foundation for cracks and look for termite mud tubes. Also, check window frames for gaps.