A Guide on How Pests Get Into Your Home
Inspect Potential Pest Entryways Around Your Athens, GA Home
Making your home less appealing to pests begins with blocking off potential entryways that provide rats and insects easy access to your property.
Cracks and fissures in the foundation
Older homes, particularly those that have settled and endured the elements for years, may have microscopic cracks that may not appear to be a problem until pests appear. Pests can enter homes through tiny cracks and crevices, therefore it's critical to seal every crack, hole, and crevice in your foundation. While checking your foundation, seal or wrap any wood that comes into contact with the earth, and replace any decaying or damp wood near your foundation. The most typical way for termites to enter a home is through wood-to-ground contact.
Remove cellulose mulch
Cellulose mulch is wood that is laying near your home, beckoning termites. Synthetic mulch could be a viable substitute for wood mulch. If you must use wood mulches, keep them at least six inches away from your house.
Doors and windows should be sealed.
While we expect the occasional moth, fly, ladybug, or stink bug to enter our homes when doors are left open, thresholds and weather-stripping keep the majority of insects out. Any gaps around your door, from out-of-square storm doors to missing or damaged weather stripping, can attract a variety of insects and vermin into your home. Window screens that are torn or have holes should be replaced. Mosquitoes are a significant issue in Athens, GA since they are not only irritating but may also transmit various human infections, including Zika virus, yellow fever, and West Nile virus, to mention a few. When not in use, keep porch lights turned off since moths are attracted to them.
Examine the screens on the roof vents, fascia, and soffits.
In order to prevent yellow jackets and wasps from accessing your property through upper floors, inspect the junctures between contiguous roof lines. Roof vent screens should be properly secured across the entire perimeter. Vents and exhaust fans in your dryer, kitchen, and bathroom should be inspected and replaced if the vent dampers do not move freely, are jammed open, or are broken.
Examine any unused drains.
Drain flies thrive in unused drains, especially those that include organic matter such as yard trash or dirt. Examine the exterior of your home for other entryways.
Protect the Interior of Your Athens, GA Home from Pests
Bed bugs are very adept at hitching rides on clothing, bags, backpacks, electrical devices, and nearly anything your children take to college, your family goes on vacation or any overnight stay. When returning from an overnight stay, washing all articles in hot water and drying them on a high heat setting, as well as thoroughly vacuuming non-washable objects, will help to eliminate bed bugs.
Pantry pests, such as moths, beetles, and weevils, are attracted to food sources in your kitchen. Carpenter ants and termites can damage the structural integrity of your home if left unchecked. These pests are attracted to moisture, so any areas of your home that have leaks or condensation should be fixed immediately. Regularly vacuum and mop your floors to remove food crumbs, dust, and dirt that may attract pests.
Keep Trash Cans Clean and Pests Out
Trash provides an easy food source for many pests, so it's important to keep trash cans clean and free of debris. Wipe down the exterior of trash cans with soapy water, and rinse thoroughly. Line trash cans with plastic bags that can be easily removed and replaced. Be sure to take the trash out regularly, and don't let it sit in the can for too long.
At Pete's Pest Patrol, we understand how important it is to protect your home from pests. Our experienced and certified technicians are here to help you with all your pest control needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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