Most people know the importance of winterizing your home to protect it from the elements, but did you know that pests like mice, rats, and bugs can also do serious damage to your home’s structure if they aren’t kept at bay? To make sure your home stays pest-free all year round, consider implementing these five ways to winterize your home against pests in the fall.
1) Seal Every Possible Entry Point
Seal Every Possible Entry Point from pests in your home. Here are a few easy ways to do it -A concrete patio slab can be raised up and sealed with a pipe or pole sunk into the ground so that rodents cannot burrow under it. Holes in fences, walls, and roofs should also be sealed with mesh screening or caulk to prevent rodents from entering through these areas.
2) Use Pets Safely
Pets can bring pests like fleas, ticks, and even bed bugs into your home. To help protect your pets and your home against unwanted pests this winter, try these five tips:
1) Add a layer of straw to your pets bedding
2) Wash bedding regularly in hot water with bleach
3) Check your pet for any signs of pests
4) Clean up after your pet
5) Keep pets indoors as much as possible
3) Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Cleaning your gutters and downspouts will help prevent pest infestation. The design of a gutter system is such that it directs water away from the foundation of your home and towards the ground. This creates an environment that is perfect for pests, who will happily make their way up your gutters and enter your home through any cracks or holes they can find. Cleaning out your gutters in the fall will help prevent this problem by removing any leaves, nesting materials, or other debris that might be present.
4) Check HVAC Vents
Having your HVAC vents in your home checked and protected from pests entering your home is one of the best ways to winterize your home against pests. Now that winter is approaching, don’t forget to check and protect them from the cold weather!
5) Store All Food Correctly
Store all food correctly to avoid attracting pests to your home. When storing food, it is important to keep in mind that rodents can smell even the smallest amount of food. To store food correctly and prevent pests from finding it, follow these tips:
- Place open items in a resealable container
- Try Place pantry staples like flour, powdered sugar and cornmeal in the refrigerator in airtight containers to keep bugs out.
