As the seasons turn, pest activity often increases, and autumn is no exception. Here, we'll share our top 5 fall pest control tips to keep your home pest-free.
#1 Prune Trees and Shrubs
As summer growth slows down, plants and shrubs might be encroaching on your home. While it might seem harmless, this proximity can invite pests indoors.
Many pests thrive on and around vegetation. The closer these are to your home, the easier it is for them to find their way inside.
As homes age, small cracks can form, providing entry points for pests. Branches or plants touching your home offer an easy path for these intruders.
This is true for larger pests too. A branch a few feet from your home can be a direct route for them to enter.
Keep your greenery well-trimmed to support your home's pest defense.
#2 Maintain Your Lawn and Clear Grass Clippings
Keeping your grass short can deter pests for several reasons. Short grass provides fewer hiding spots for pests.
Pests like ticks and small rodents prefer tall grass for shelter. Leaving your grass long as winter approaches can create an insulated haven for pests.
With this added insulation, pests can survive beneath the snow, causing potential damage to your yard by springtime.
#3 Inspect and Manage Water Collection Areas
Pests need food, water, and shelter, and you may be unknowingly supplying water sources for them to thrive. Stagnant water is a favorite breeding ground for many pests.
Mosquitoes, in particular, are drawn to standing water. Excess moisture in general attracts pests, making it essential to address these areas in the fall.
By identifying and eliminating water collection points now, you can mitigate spring pest problems. Fall water accumulation may seem minor, but melting winter snow can exacerbate the issue.
Being proactive about these areas now can significantly reduce pest activity in the coming seasons.
#4 Inspect and Seal Entry Points
With seasonal shifts, your home may develop new cracks and crevices. Seals around doors and windows can also deteriorate over time.
These small gaps may not appear concerning, but pests can enter through openings as tiny as 1/8 inch. Rodents can squeeze through holes as small as 1/4 inch.
Weather stripping and seals wear down, so inspect them before significant temperature changes occur.
During seasonal transitions, pests seek new shelters, often targeting your home as their next residence. Inspecting your home for any entry points and sufficiently sealing them off is one of the most important steps in pest proofing your home.
#5 Prioritize Exclusion Techniques
The final step in fall pest prevention is emphasizing exclusion. This involves not just checking seals but actually reinforcing them.
Pests can enter through various points such as windows, damaged screens, and under doors. Cracks near pipes and wiring are also common entryways.
As pest control experts, we can guide your exclusion efforts, but severe entry points may require professional home repair services.
We believe these top 5 fall pest control tips will help you in pest proofing your home, but we're always here to ensure they never gain entry and stay away all year long.
