Many pests in Burke look for warmth, food, and shelter once the temperature drops. Sadly, your home can be the perfect place for them to settle in. They can cause property damage and spread bacteria or allergens when inside. You can keep pests out during winter by combining good prevention, regular maintenance, and awareness of what attracts them. This allows you to call a pest control expert at Green Pest Services as needed. You can visit their website at greenpestservices.net to learn more about what they offer and what they can do for homeowners. Below are steps you can take to keep pests out of your home in Burke:
Seal Up Entry Points Before Cold Weather Hits
Winter pests can enter homes through the smallest openings. Mice can squeeze through a gap not larger than a dime. Insects can slip through cracks you might not notice. Other unwanted guests can gain entry to your living space through doors, windows, vents, and utility lines.
Inspect the exterior of your Burke home for gaps around window frames, door seals, and siding. Check where cables, plumbing, and dryer vents enter the house. These spots can have small cracks that go unnoticed. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or steel wool to block these spaces. Also, pay attention to garage doors, attic vents, and crawl space openings. Install fine mesh screens or door sweeps to reduce the risk of pests slipping through.
Keep Firewood and Debris Away from the House
Firewood piles are common hiding spots for pests such as rodents, termites, and spiders. Firewood that sits against your home provides a warm, dark shelter that encourages infestations to spread indoors. Store firewood at least twenty feet away from your home and keep it elevated off the ground. Shake out logs before bringing them inside to make sure no insects or spiders are hiding in the bark. Also, clear out leaves, mulch, and other organic debris that accumulate near your foundation. These materials hold moisture and attract insects looking for warmth. A clean yard perimeter makes it harder for pests to find a comfortable hiding place.
Eliminate Food and Water Sources
Pests need reliable food and water sources in winter. Kitchens and pantries offer these sources, making them favorite targets for mice, cockroaches, and ants. Store dry goods in airtight containers made of glass or thick plastic. Wipe down counters, sweep crumbs, and clean up spills promptly. Pet food should also be stored in sealed containers.
Water attracts pests just as much as food. Check under sinks for leaks, fix dripping faucets, and dry any moisture-prone spots. In basements, use a dehumidifier if humidity levels stay high.
Maintain Clean and Organized Spaces
Clutter provides pests with hiding spots and nesting materials. Rodents can use boxes, stacks of paper, or unused furniture as cover. Organize storage areas like basements, attics, and garages. Keep items off the floor and stored in sealed plastic bins. Also, vacuum regularly, paying attention to corners, baseboards, and furniture edges.
Inspect Attics and Basements Regularly
Attics and basements serve as prime hiding spots for pests during the winter. These areas offer warmth, moisture, and protection from human activity. Mice, rats, spiders, and silverfish often gather there once the outdoor temperatures fall. Inspect your attic for droppings, shredded insulation, or gnawed wires. Look for cobwebs, insect carcasses, and damp corners that might draw pests to your basement.
Pay Attention to the Kitchen and Pantry
Ants, roaches and rodents can take advantage of the warmth, crumbs, and open containers in your kitchen and pantry. You can reduce this risk if you keep counters and floors free from food debris. Wipe spills immediately, and don’t leave dirty dishes overnight. Take out the trash regularly, and keep garbage bins closed tightly. Also, inspect the back of cabinets and under appliance since these spots might collect crumbs and grease. Vacuuming these hidden spaces removes food sources and eggs that pests might have laid.