The best way to treat a pest infestation is to prevent it in the first place! So now that we’re in a new year, make pest-proofing one of your resolutions! It will help you avoid encounters with rodents, cockroaches, ants, and other pests that may be risks to your health and your property.
We at Antworks believe no one should have to share a home with pests which is why we’re offering some tips when pest-proofing your home.
Pest-Proofing Tips
It may not seem like it, but many homes have lots of entry points for curious and determined pests. Some, like Norway rats, may also burrow beneath your foundation to find their way in. We suggest following these pest prevention techniques to make your home uninviting to pests.
Eliminate Moisture
Like us, most pests need water to survive, while others breed in it. Clear clogged gutters, eliminate ice dams and pour out sources of standing water such as bird baths and tire swings. Indoors, clear clogged drains, repair leaky pipes and install a dehumidifier to eliminate excess moisture.
Replace Weather Stripping
Mice can fit through an opening the size of a dime; cockroaches, spiders, and other insects–even smaller spaces. Walk around your home and replace worn or damaged weather stripping or loose mortar around doors, windows, and your basement foundation. A good rule of thumb is: if you see light shining through your door jambs, it’s time to replace it.
Fill Holes
Exterior holes where utility lines and pipes enter your home are common entry points for pests. To keep pests from sneaking into your home this way, fill any gaps with silicone caulk and steel wool. This combination is to prevent pesky rodents from chewing through.
Store Firewood Away from the Home
If you have a fireplace or woodstove and keep wood on your property, you’ll want to store it away from your home. Insects, spiders, and rodents will make themselves a home in your wood stacks. Instead, we recommend you store your firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and one a raised structure so it’s not directly touching the ground. Just be sure to inspect your wood before bringing it inside.
Trim Branches and Shrubs
Bushes and shrubs that hug the exterior of your home act like safe harborages for pests while overhanging branches act like a bridge. Eliminate this issue by trimming back your branches and shrubbery.
Eliminate Leaf Piles
Leaves, mulch, and debris are attractive to many pests. They’re full of moisture, decaying plant matter, and small insects that could be eaten. Fun fact: some ticks hibernate beneath leaves. Turn or change your mulch occasionally and remove your foliage to help deter pests.
Maintain Cleanliness
Crumbs, garbage, and clutter are attractive to many pests and if your home has what a pest wants, they’ll do whatever it takes to get inside. Help make the inside of your home less attractive too.
- Use airtight containers for food
- Vacuum frequently
- Dispose of garbage regularly
- Pick up crumbs immediately
- Keep floors, countertops, and cupboards clean
- Stay organized
Want Professional Pest-Proofing?
Now that you know a little more about pest prevention, you should be well on your way to pest-proofing for the New Year. However, if you want professional pest exclusion services in the Portland and Vancouver area, contact us. We can treat and help prevent any pest you may be dealing with.
