They’re Moving In: How to Keep Fall Pests Out of Your Home

As temperatures drop, we naturally begin to spend more time indoors. Unfortunately, some unwanted guests may have the same idea.

Fall brings changing conditions that can send mice, insects and other pests searching for food, shelter and protected places to spend the colder months. Small cracks, gaps around doors and windows, and other openings can give them easy access to your home.

The good news is that a few simple steps can help make your home less inviting to pests trying to find a warm place for the winter.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

·       Which pests you’re more likely to notice around your home in the fall

·       Where mice, insects, and other pests may find ways inside

·       Simple steps you can take to help prevent fall pest problems before they start

Meet Your Fall Houseguests

Some pests become more noticeable around homes in the fall.

Mice can squeeze through openings as small as ¼ inch, making any tiny gaps around foundations, garages, and utility lines potential entry points.

Boxelder bugs and ladybugs may gather in groups on sunny exterior walls before seeking out cracks and crevices to spend the winter.

Spiders can also become more noticeable this time of year. While spiders themselves may not necessarily be heading indoors to escape the cold, homes can provide shelter…and other insects to eat.

Find Their Way In Before They Do

One of the best ways to reduce fall pest problems is to look at your house from a pest’s perspective. Even a very small opening can provide an opportunity.

Take a walk around your home and check for:

·       Gaps around doors and windows

·       Worn or missing weather stripping

·       Cracks and openings along the foundation

·       Gaps where pipes, wires, and utility lines enter the home

·       Damaged window or door screens

·       Openings around the garage door

·       Vegetation or debris directly against the house

Sealing potential entry points can help prevent pests from making themselves comfortable inside.

Don’t Make Your Home More Inviting

Pest prevention isn’t just about closing the door. Removing potential food, water, and shelter can also help.

Keep food, including pet food, in sealed containers, clean up crumbs and spills, address moisture problems, and keep storage areas organized. Outdoors, trim vegetation away from the house and avoid leaving piles of leaves, wood, or debris directly against the foundation.

Get Ahead of Fall Pest Problems

Once pests are inside, they’re harder to manage. That’s why now is a great time to think about prevention. Get ahead of the colder temperatures that will send even more unwanted visitors looking for shelter.

If you’re already seeing signs that something has moved in, Tiger Pride can help identify the problem and recommend the right pest control solution for your home. Contact us to keep your home pest-free this fall.