Simple Tips to Keep Pests out of your Home this winter

Bugs, insects, rodents and other pests are an unfortunate reality for most homeowners. During the winter, many small (and not so small) creatures will be attracted to the warmth and safety of your home.

In order to protect your home this winter, try out our 11 tips for keeping pests out of your home this cold winter. However, if and when you find yourself with pests in your home, always be sure to call a professional as soon as possible. While some pest problems can be handled on your own, most require a pro.

1. Check Your House

Make sure that there aren’t any openings or holes that are inviting little tunnels for all kinds of pests and varmints. You should start with the foundation and work your way up. Check for signs of animal activity, like chewed wood or small tunnels.

2. Check for Animals Already Inside

The number one easiest mistake to make is to unknowingly lock wild animals into your home. Then, you have essentially created a nice little, warm home for them. Before doing anything, check the attic, foundation, chimney, etc. We will cover more details in a moment.

3. Foundation

The foundation is, well, the FOUNDATION of your home and is very important to the house’s safety and sturdiness. However, it is also a very easy place for small creatures to burrow into so that they can take over your home. You should seal off any openings with caulk or some other sealant.

4. Siding and Roof

Likely intruders from the siding would be mice or rats. However, when it comes to the roof, you will likely be dealing with birds or squirrels (they can jump very high!) If you have damage to your roof or siding, you should most certainly have those issues handled, not just because of the likelihood of pests.

5. Doors and Windows

Doors and windows are a favorite entry point for spiders, in particular. Though many spiders are totally harmless, many can carry diseases or be venomous. So it is always better safe than sorry when it comes to spiders. Keep windows and doors closed when they do not need to be opened. Also, where you find openings, use a weather strip with an adhesive back to completely seal the entryway.

6. Attic

Squirrels and raccoons are common attic dwellers. Though they are not typically mean or aggressive animals, they may become aggressive if scared. They can also carry rabies and other infections and diseases. Never attempt to handle these types of creatures on your own. Make sure that any vents are equipped with firmly installed covers.

7. Chimney

Of course, it is not uncommon to find a bird or two in your chimney. As a matter of fact, you may even find a nesting mother. However, you may also find bats, raccoons and insects. If this is an issue for you, you may want to consider installing a chimney cap.

8. Trash

The trash can, of course, attracts hungry animals. When winter hits and the air chills, many animals are looking for food. That potent foul smell from your garbage is sure to attract some famished creatures. Try deterring them by spraying the interior of the can with ammonia or bleach.

9. Firewood

Pests like termites, stink bugs, and Boxelder bugs are likely to make their homes in wood piles, which are common to have outdoors during the winter. Once they have found a nice, warm residence there, they are likely to move into your home soon enough.   Keep wood piles as far away from the house as possible. In addition, try to store the wood off of the ground and not under or near trees.

1. Pet Food

It’s not hard to imagine why pests would be attracted to pet food. That is why you should keep your pet food sealed and, if indoors, not too near the doors.

1. Presto-X “Formerly Fischer” Can Help

If you are still stumped as to what is attracting your pests, or how they are getting in, then we can help! We can also help should you find yourself in a situation where the pests have multiplied.   Presto-X “Formerly Fischer” is a full service Pest Control company serving the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. Our calling card is our 4-hour response time because we know that there is no time to waste when these situations arise

Pests are a real problem for most homeowners at one time or another. The trick is to nip situations in the bud and get professionals when you need them. Many times, residents allow the problem to get out of control before they call on expert help. By then, the creatures have bred and may be very difficult to remove. So, try and prevent them from getting in, but once they do be sure to handle the situation in a timely manner. These types of creatures can carry disease, ruin your home, create unpleasant odors and much more! Contact us for additional support.