Unwelcome Guests…Protect Your Home from Critters!
Once temperatures begin to drop, you’ll want to stay alert for unwelcome guests. Nothing attracts mice, bugs, and other pests more than the warmth and shelter of a cozy home. If you want to stop these “party crashers” from settling in, here are a few important precautions to take.
Not So Grand Openings
Holes, cracks, and gaps of any size are prime opportunities for pests to sneak indoors. Never assume an opening is too small—mice can squeeze through spaces as tiny as a dime, and a gap just a few inches wide can invite in much larger critters. (Just ask a friend of ours who once found an opossum napping in a laundry basket!)
Insects require even less space, slipping through cracks you may not even notice. One of the best ways to locate these trouble spots is at night: turn off the interior lights, step outside, and look for areas where light escapes. Planned openings—such as HVAC and dryer vents—should always be covered with fine-gauge screens to block pests.
Windows and doors are common weak points. Seal edges with caulk or expanding foam where needed. Make sure screens are free of tears, and add weather stripping or door sweeps to eliminate small gaps. Checking for drafts is also an easy way to spot hidden cracks. These fixes not only help keep pests outside—they can also improve energy efficiency.
Know What You’re Up Against – Stay Alert
Vigilance is your strongest defense. Pests are persistent, so you must be equally diligent. If you aren’t sure what type of critter has entered your home, use glue traps to help identify the culprit. Many insects and rodents gravitate toward them, giving you helpful clues before you take action.
Homes and Gardens
Keep plants and shrubs trimmed back at least one foot from your home’s exterior. Thick or overgrown landscaping provides shelter for pests and gives them easy access to the inside. Yard debris—such as mulch, leaves, and wood piles—can also create ideal hiding spots, especially as temperatures fall.
When Mr. Fix-It Is the Problem…
After home repairs, appliance installations, or renovations, double-check the area for unsealed holes or gaps. Even projects like installing a dishwasher, HVAC system, or washing machine can leave behind unexpected entry points for pests.
Of course, even with careful prevention, pests sometimes find their way in. If you choose to handle the issue yourself, make sure you correctly identify the intruder first. Pest remedies are highly specific—what works for rodents will not work for insects, and vice versa. Always read labels carefully and confirm products are safe for children and pets.
If you’re unsure, uncomfortable, or unsuccessful, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Pest infestations can be stubborn, and trained pest control specialists have the tools and experience needed to eliminate problems safely and effectively.
