As the weather cools, we’ll all begin to enjoy the warmth of our homes more…that could include rodents. Seeking a place to wait out the cooler months, pests such as rats, mice, bats and more will look for holes and cracks to slip through. Check out these nine ways to pest-proof your house for fall to help reduce the risk.
Inspect your home.
Every opening of your home is an invitation to wildlife. Inspect your attic vents, chimneys and other openings for gaps or damage. In addition, pests are attracted to moisture—keep your basements, attics and crawl spaces well-ventilated and dry.
Seal cracks.
Some rodents can fit through a dime-sized hole. Pay close attention to where your pipes enter your home and seal any cracks and crevices using caulk and steel wool.
Have a proper outdoor drainage system.
Moisture attracts all types of pests. A proper outdoor drainage system can help prevent leaks or backups.
Replace weatherstripping.
Could your weatherstripping use an update? Replace it and repair the mortar around the foundation and windows. This will help keep pests—and cold air—out of your house.
Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens.
Another way to pest-proof your house for fall is to install door sweeps and repair any damaged screens. Torn screens and cracks in your entry points are inviting those unwanted guests.
Keep shrubbery trimmed.
Pests like to hide in shrubbery. To reduce the chance of them finding a way inside, keep your shrubbery trimmed back. Additionally, store any firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.
Store your food properly.
Food smells and crumbs are one of the leading causes of attracting pests. Keep your kitchen counters clean, store food in airtight containers and dispose of scraps and garbage regularly.
Pick up your pet’s food.
Speaking of food, pests will take what they can find, oftentimes. Avoid leaving your pets’ food bowls out for extended periods.
Inspect and seal storage boxes.
Do you store your seasonal decorations in your attic or garage? Ordering groceries for porch delivery? Inspect every bag or box before bringing it into your home. Critters are creative enough to find their way into many containers.
Summary
There are many ways to pest-proof your house for fall before the colder weather arrives and rodents start searching for shelter. From these nine tips to contacting Pesty Critters Wildlife Control, it’s time to protect your space. For more, continue reading our blogs.
