Fall Pest Proofing Tips for Homeowners

Homeowners Should Integrate Pest Proofing into their Routines for the Fall Season

With a new season comes different pest challenges to face and another round of pest proofing to do for the home. Pests like mice, rats, box elder bugs and spiders will look for shelter in warm homes as the weather grows cooler.

Rodents, for example, are a more common fall pest. Rodents can contaminate food and damage drywall and electrical wires throughout the home. Other fall invaders to combat are box elder bugs, brown marmorated stink bugs, the cluster fly and multicolored Asian lady beetles. As the days get shorter and evening and day temps get lower, we see an increase in activity. As we head into fall, now is the time to pest proof your home so these invaders don’t become a threat.

Follow these pest-proofing tips for the fall season:

• Seal bases of exterior doors and garage doors, attic vents and openings to chimneys. Mice can enter a space as small as a dime or ¼.” Even smaller openings must be sealed to prevent insect entry.
• Eliminate moisture sites, including leaking pipes and clogged drains.
• Seal cracks and crevices on the outside of the home using caulk and metal meshes. Pay close attention where utility pipes enter the structure.
• Replace loose mortar and weather stripping around the basement foundation and windows.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house.
• Trim all tree limbs away from the home so they do not touch or overhang onto the roofs or siding.
• Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens.
• If ticks are a problem on your property, contact a licensed pest professional to inspect and implement a treatment plan to reduce tick populations.

If you suspect a pest problem, Hometown Pest Control can help!

Contact us for a free inspection of your home and we will provide a recommended service program that fits your needs. Request a free quote today!