Summer is here and as the temperature rises, so does the number of pests invading our homes. Pests can cause damage to our property and can even pose a threat to our health. Nobody wants to spend their summer dealing with unwanted guests in their homes, so it’s important to take steps to secure your home against pests. Here are the top 5 things you can do to keep your home pest-free this summer.
We interviewed multiple reputable pest control companies across the country and they all agree, prevention is the best form of pest control. Stopping pest issues before they start is the best way to keep your home pest free especially during the warm summer season. One pest control owner, Kenny Neal of Warrior Pest Control, even gave us a quote "Proper prevention prevents pest problems". He calls it the 5 p's. With prevention being the #1 way to secure your home against pests, we put together a list of 5 easy steps you can take to prevent pest issues this summer!
1. Seal Your Home’s Entry Points: Pests such as ants, cockroaches, and rodents can easily enter our homes through small crevices or cracks around our doors and windows. Make sure you seal these entry points with weather stripping or caulking. This will not only keep pests out, but it will also increase your home’s energy efficiency. Double check your basement as a lot of pests find their way in through here
2. Keep Your Kitchen Clean: Pests are attracted to food. So, make sure to keep your kitchen clean and free of food scraps and spills. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight and make sure to wipe down counters and sweep floors regularly. This includes trash as well. Don't leave any open trash bins or exposed garbage cans little critters like racoons love to visit open garbage cans for a snack.
3. Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes and other pests thrive in standing water. Eliminate any areas of standing water, such as in flowerpots or birdbaths, and regularly empty and clean gutters. Check inside and outside. Even a little extra water in your basement or garage can give these pests a reason to stay. Standing water in any of these places can serve as an invitation for mosquitos and other water loving bugs to make themselves at home
4. Maintain Your Landscaping: Pests such as ants and termites can often make their homes in trees and bushes around our homes. Keep your landscaping well-maintained and avoid planting trees or bushes too close to your home. This will help deter pests and prevent them from entering your home. The biggest contributor we see is leave or brush piles. Small animals love making a home out of this type of environment.
5. Call In The Professionals: If you’ve done everything you can to keep your home pest-free and still have an infestation, it’s time to call in the professionals. A pest control company can help identify the source of the problem and provide effective solutions to eliminate pests from your home. Make sure to look at reviews, credentials, and shop around. There are usually plenty of experts in your area.
By following these top 5 steps, you can secure your home against unwanted pests this summer. Not only will it keep your home looking and smelling fresh, but it will also ensure the health and safety of you and your family. Remember, prevention is key, so take steps now to prevent pests from entering your home.
