Pest Control services are performed all year and Fall is no exception. The first official day of Fall is this week and although we are still experiencing near 100 degree temperatures in Rockwall, cooler weather isn’t far off. And like other things in the house, a change of season is a good time to check on some things. Bug and Insect Control and prevention are good items to work on in the Fall, going in to Winter.
So how you can help protect your home in the Fall from bugs and insects?
1. Seal any openings in your home.
Small openings at small as 1/16 of an inch can allow spiders and other insects to get in the home. A 1/4 inch gap is large enough to allow mice in. Common places that have openings are around where wiring and pipes enter the house. Gas meters, dryer vents and outdoor faucets are also very common places to find openings that need to be sealed. You can use caulk, wire mesh or expandable foam to seal these areas.
2. Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors.
To seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors, use weather stripping, or a latex caulk. Before sealing these areas, they should be cleaned. Garage doors and sliding glass doors can also be have stripping applied to the bottom to help prevent bugs and pests from entering the home.
3. Examine window and door screens for holes.
You may think a screen is protecting the window from intruders, but if it has hole, the bugs are coming right in. Larger insects like flies are kept out with a screen, but some smaller insects can still fit through a screen.
4. Install a Chimney Cap.
Chimney caps are a great way to keep birds, squirrels, bats and other wildlife out of your chimney and ultimately out of your home.
5. Check the exterior of your home.
Are you inviting rodents and insects to your home by things around it? Is there standing water due to draining problems? Is your trash can kept outside and not secured? Even woodpiles near the house can invite insects and bugs closer to the home. At that point, it is natural for them to try and enter the home.
Being aware of what you have outside and following these tips not only helps pest control efforts, but it will help your home be more energy efficient as well.
For all of your pest control needs, call Stronghold Pest Control. We have the knowledge and experience to help you with any pest or rodent situation.
