With fall around the corner, you are happily saying goodbye to the bugs of summer, but don’t be fooled: there are still plenty of creepers sticking around for fall.
One of your top priorities at the beginning of the new season should be insect and rodent control. As the temperatures change, pests will be looking to migrate to warmer temperatures. The last thing you want is for these tiny creatures to find their way into the confines of your home. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent these unwanted guests without emptying your bank account. Here are a few tips for keeping falls pests out of your home.
Seal Cracks and Holes Outside of Your House
Bugs such as ants, beetles and roaches can easily fit in between even the smallest crack in a wall. You can fill in these gaps with acrylic latex caulk, which can be purchased for under $10. Not only will the caulk keep the bugs out of this house, but it will keep the cold and wet weather out too. Roaches and other insects look for warm, moist areas to live in during the colder seasons, making the use of a durable caulk more important for added protection. For larger gaps in your home’s infrastructure, you can cut mesh screens into the necessary sizes. The use of an extra-strength adhesive will help keep the cover in place.
Maintain your Landscaping
You can find bugs crawling around in leaves, soil and mulch. It is important to make sure these common outdoor items don’t pile up during the fall season. These items will often hold moisture which will attract insects and will make it easy for them to hide. You will also want to keep all trees and bushes near your home appropriately trimmed. Any branches or bushes that come in contact with your house give insects easy access to explore the walls and windows of your home. It is also suggested that you keep any firewood at least 20 feet from the house. Firewood is an ideal resting place for small critters and an easy way of transportation inside. Only bring in what you need!
Properly Store all Food Items
Not only will bugs and small animals use your home as an escape from seasonal changes, but they will use it as a source of food as well. It is important to not let food sit out for extended periods of time. Keep anything edible inside plastic airtight containers or bags. You should also consistently clean your kitchen and dining areas. Even if your food is kept away properly, crumbs and residue from your meals will attract pests and let them know exactly where food may be. This may lead to them making more frequent visits to your kitchen.
Higher an Exterminator
Although hiring an exterminator can be pricey, it may be incredibly beneficial. If you come across a nest or infested area in your home, call a professional. A pest control professional will be able to gauge the severity of the infestation and give advice on how to solve the situation. An exterminator will also be able to remove pests with the proper technique, using certain pesticides and tools that are safe to your home and family.
This post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. The point of view and opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Realty Executives International.
