Unwelcome Guests…Protect Your Home from Critters!
Once the temperatures start to drop, you need to keep an eye (and an ear!) out for little invaders. Nothing is more appealing to mice, bugs, or other pests than a warm house where they can make themselves at home. If you want to keep these “party crashers” from taking over, there are a few precautions you can take.
Not So Grand Openings
Holes, cracks, or openings of any type are prime opportunities for creepy-crawlers and furry visitors to find a way indoors. Never assume a crack or hole is too small. A mouse can enter a home through a hole no bigger than a dime, while a six-inch opening can invite in something as large as a raccoon. (Just ask a friend of ours who once found an opossum napping in a laundry basket!)
Insects require even less space, slipping through tiny cracks you may not notice. The best time to find these openings is at night—turn off interior lights, step outside, and look for spots where light escapes. Planned openings such as HVAC vents and dryer vents are normal, but they should be covered with fine-gauge screens to block pests.
Windows and doors are common weak points. Seal them with caulk or expanding foam where necessary. Ensure all screens are free of tears and add door sweeps or weather stripping to block small gaps. Checking for drafts around doorways and windows can also help you locate hidden cracks. Not only will these fixes keep pests away, but they’ll also improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Know What You’re Up Against – Stay Alert
Vigilance is your strongest weapon. Critters are persistent by nature, so you must be equally diligent. If you aren’t sure what pest has made its way into your home, simple glue traps can help. Both insects and rodents are attracted to these traps, allowing you to quickly identify the culprit.
Homes and Gardens
Keep plants and shrubs at least one foot away from the exterior of your home. Dense greenery provides shelter for pests, giving them an easy path indoors. Piles of leaves, mulch, or debris also attract unwanted guests by offering warm hiding places and breeding grounds.
When Mr. Fix-It is the Problem…
If you’ve recently had repairs, upgrades, or renovations completed, double-check the area for unsealed gaps or holes. Even a new appliance installation—such as a dishwasher or washing machine—can leave behind an unexpected entry point for pests.
However, even with diligent prevention, invasions still happen. If you feel confident handling the issue yourself, make sure you properly 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 ensure any product you choose is safe for children and pets.
If you’re unsure, uncomfortable, or unsuccessful, don’t hesitate to call the experts. Pest infestations can be stubborn, and professional pest control teams have the tools, training, and experience to eliminate the problem safely and effectively.
