How to Keep the Pests Out this Season
Winter weather in Connecticut typically means we’re spending more time inside of our homes than outside — unless we’re building a snowman or shoveling our driveway. This means that we don’t typically pay as much attention to the outside of our homes than we would in the spring and summer. During these few months, we may let our home’s exterior go without necessary maintenance.
Late fall and winter is the best time for pests to seek shelter inside your home through any openings they can find. Luckily, there are some quick steps you can take to protect your home until warm weather comes again.
Pests That Make Your House Their Home
Wildlife should remain outside in the wild and not in your home. However, the following critters can find their way into your home:
- Rodents (mice and rats)
- Insects (yellow jackets, bees, ants, flies)
- Fall bugs (stink bugs, ladybugs, box elders)
Where there’s a will, there’s a way. These animals can find their way into your home through any of these openings:
- In your walls.
- Cracks and gaps in your exterior.
- Holes in your roof, closets, pantries, or attic.
Fall Pest Maintenance Tips
If pests make their way into your home, they can cause a lot of damage. Beyond forming a colony in your home, they can also chew wires, harm your property, leave droppings, and nest in your insulation. If you do notice an insect or rodent infestation, you will need to call a professional exterminator immediately.
Prevent any pest problems this season by performing the following home maintenance:
- Check your home for gaps or holes (especially near pipes and utilities).
- Pull out old plants that could attract bugs.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet from your exterior.
- Check fall decorations before bringing them in the house (straw piles and scarecrows).
The best way to protect your home and focus on celebrating all that the holiday season has to offer is by calling your professional home care company to give your home a good double-check. At Landmark Exteriors, we can help get your home ready for winter early, so you can prevent any problems or emergencies when temperatures drop. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.