How Winter Weather Affects Pests

 In Pest Control

When the cold winds of winter start to blow, mice and other pests are just like you – they want to find a warm place to go until it passes. When freezing temperatures or even ice enter the mix, not only do these pests try even harder to get into your home, the weather may actually make it easier for them. If you think your home is safe from the threat of invading pests, you might want to think again.

Pests and Cold Weather

Many pests and insects have built in mechanisms to help them survive cold temperatures. With the help of freeze avoidance, freeze tolerance, and even migration, certain critters have no problem dealing with whatever Mother Nature throws at them. These pests generally aren’t a concern for homeowners during the winter months. Many others, including rats, mice, raccoons, and cockroaches don’t have these mechanisms, which means they will be searching for a cozy place to spend the winter.

These rodents and insects can be quite adept at finding their way inside so they can take advantage of your heat, and many of them can carry a wide range of diseases that can make you and your family members sick. If you want to make sure they stay outside where they belong, you need to know about the effects of harsh winter weather on your home.

Strong Winds

When those winds start howling outside your window, you need to make sure you check the shingles on your roof and the siding. The combination of cold temperatures and heavy winds can crack shingles and siding, or even completely rip them off without you being aware of it. This provides plenty of space for bats and raccoons to sneak into your walls or attic, where they can quickly cause even more damage.

Freezing Temperatures

Temperatures at or near freezing is a surefire way to send rats, squirrels, and mice scrambling to find a warm space. In south Louisiana we don’t often have to deal with this kind of severe weather, but it’s a good idea to remember that you aren’t the only one who wants to be snug inside your warm house during these conditions. If there are any cracks around pipes or the foundation, those critters will make their way inside. Once there, they will have plenty of fun chewing through electrical wires and the walls, not to mention potentially spreading disease everywhere they go.

Heavy Rain

Rain & ice during winter can damage areas around your roof, gutters, windows, and doors, and the moisture is a beacon for termites. Make sure you check these areas, as well as your attic, after it rains or the temperatures warm up to make sure you don’t end up with a colony inside your walls.

While you may not relish the idea of heading out in the freezing cold to check around your home, if you want to keep pests out, it has to be done. If you notice any damaged areas, make sure to repair them as quickly as possible, as there are always critters just waiting for the chance to enter your home.

If you think you might have a pest problem already, make sure to contact us to have your home inspected, and any pests eradicated as quickly as possible.

How Winter Weather Affects Pests In Louisiana & Mississippi

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