Nobody wants to be cold during the winter months. We crank up the heat and bundle up in our warm and cozy homes. Unfortunately, many insects and rodents can have the same idea as us. They will seek out the warmth and comfort of our homes, especially if we do not keep up with routine maintenance that would prevent them from entering.
We often do so much to decorate our homes to make them beautiful during the holiday season but are we masking lurking problems and welcoming pests into our homes? The most important part of winter pest control is prevention. You can save yourself time and frustration by preventing these pests from entering your home in the first place. There are many insects that are dormant during the cold winter months but we cannot forget the ones that seek out warmth and shelter. Some pests to be aware of that could enter your home are ants, cockroaches, and rodents. Being vigilant about year round pest control can keep nasty critters out of your house and away from your family.
First, you will want to check the perimeter of your home on a regular basis. Things you should be on the lookout for include the conditions of your walls and roof, should you see any holes or cracks where insects could enter you will want to have them sealed immediately. Also, if you see any scratches, marks, or droppings you may have rodents nearby or already in your home.
Chimneys and stove pipes should be covered by protective screens to prevent rodent entry. If you have a fireplace and store firewood it can retain a lot of moisture and invite insects. You will need to store all firewood as far away from your home as possible. By maintaining the exterior of your home you are taking the first step to protecting your home from unwanted visitors during the winter months.
Next, you will want to protect the interior of your home. Now is a great time to declutter and maintain general cleanliness. Clutter is like an invitation to rodents and bugs to take up residence in your home. Also, food should be stored in airtight containers. Cleaning out your cabinets will also help prevent creatures from scavenging around in your home. Storing items in cardboard boxes is not a great idea because insects like to hide in cardboard. Instead, in your basement or garage, store items in plastic containers.
Should you hear any sounds or scratching in your ceiling or walls it is best to call professionals to help you remove any unwanted visitors from your home. You should also keep up with your routine pest control such as pesticide during the winter months to help ensure protection of your home.
When you have decorated your home and made it a beautiful and comfortable place for your family during the winter months the last thing you want are insects and rodents to make an appearance! Routinely maintaining your home will prevent major infestations from occurring and help keep your home beautiful this winter.