Here they Come – Your Warm House is Inviting to Pests

Dec 20
09:43

2011

Bob B. Hamilton

Bob B. Hamilton

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Most people keep their homes piping hot during the winter in order to stay warm. However, you may find a few unexpected guests taking advantage of the warm conditions you provide. During the winter expect your warm house to be inviting to pests since they prefer to get out of the cold weather just like you do.

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Most people keep their homes piping hot during the winter in order to stay warm.  However,Here they Come – Your Warm House is Inviting to Pests Articles you may find a few unexpected guests taking advantage of the warm conditions you provide.  During the winter expect your warm house to be inviting to pests since they prefer to get out of the cold weather just like you do.

Many pests enter homes because there are already holes making it easy for them to make an entrance.  Therefore you will want to inspect all around your home to ensure there are no cracks or gaps to invite pests inside.  All holes should be repaired as soon as possible.

It is also important for you to check your basement or crawl space.  These areas are typically damp and pests usually like living in damp conditions.  Another reason pests like these areas is because they are far away from human activity.

During the winter, you may operate your chimney frequently if you have one.  You may think the smoke rising out of it will discourage creatures from entering, but that is not the case.  The only way you can keep them out of your chimney is to install a chimney cap on it.  Birds, raccoons, and bats will not be able to enter as long as it is installed properly.

You will also need wood to operate your fireplace with.  Keep your woodpile as far away from your home as possible.  You do not want pests to setup a home temporarily in the pile of wood only to make their way into your home at a future date.

Pests will mainly be attracted to the warmth you are providing.  However, they will be even more tempted to enter your home if there are any food sources available.  At a very minimum you should keep your kitchen area free from crumbs and other debris.

Pay attention to the food sources on the outside of your home too.  Birdseed will attract pests; especially squirrels.  Any dog food you keep outside will also bring them running.  All food you keep outside should be stored in a metal or glass container so the pests cannot chew through them.

Make sure you take various protective measures to keep pests out of your warm house during the winter.  Keep both the exterior and interior of your home as clean as possible.  You should also try to eliminate all food and water sources.