How to Prevent Pests in Your Home During the Winter Months

Most people associate pests in the summer months with mosquitoes, wasps, and other insects hindering outdoor activities. As the temperature starts to dip, the pests also begin preparing for the colder months and look for warmer places like your home for shelter. Rodents infect more than 21 million U.S. homes during the winter months, and pest control in the winter months is as important as in the summer months.

Here are some tips to help you get through spring unscathed by pests to prevent pests from invading your home this winter.

Seal the Cracks

Seal up cracks and holes around windows, doors, pipes, and vents. It will prevent pests from getting inside your home through these small openings. You can use caulk or spray foam to seal them up if needed!

Secure Food in Sealed Containers

One of the top reasons insects come indoors is in search of food. Many pests can break through cardboard and paper, so next time you get food from the store, make sure you repackage it into containers. Also, clean up any residues falling onto the cabinet or pantry so that mice can’t get into them either. If possible, keep food locked away in a pantry or cabinet so they don’t always have access to it without supervision!

Cover Your Garbage

The season of fruit flies might have passed, but there is still a need to make sure your garbage has no access to pests. Ensure your trash and recyclables bins have lids, and always keep them behind a cabinet or closet door.

Keep a Check on Moisture Levels

Pests thrive in humid environments. If your attic, garage, or basement seems wet, it is a possible invitation for termites and other pests. If your home has moisture issues (like mold or leaks), consider hiring a professional to fix them before the cold weather sets in. This will help prevent moisture from building up inside walls and floors, leading to mold growth or damaged porous surfaces in freezing temperatures!

Check Roof and Gutters

Check the roof and gutters regularly for signs of damage or leaks that could attract pests into your house. The cracks and crevices in gutters and roofs are the perfect hideouts for the pests until spring. If you find any holes or leaks, ensure they’re repaired immediately, so there aren’t any more problems down the road!

Store the Firewood Properly

A pile of firewood is an ideal habitat for termites, rodents, and bugs. It is a good idea to store the firewood away from your house and thoroughly inspect it before bringing it home. If you use your shed or garage to store any other items that need to be brought inside, check them thoroughly for pest infestation before getting them in.

So, this winter, keep the warmth in and the pests out with Best Known Pest Control. We provide pest and wildlife control services to both residential and commercial properties. Call 781-333-1998 or click here to schedule an inspection and make pests a problem of the past!