As the weather warms up, many homeowners in Olympia, WA, notice increased pests around their property. Spring and summer are prime times for pests to invade homes, so it's essential to take preventative measures to keep them at bay. This blog post will discuss the top 5 spring and summer pest prevention tips that can help you maintain a pest-free home.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
One of the easiest ways for pests to enter your home is through gaps and cracks in your walls, windows, and doors. Seal any gaps or cracks with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent pest entry. This will help keep pests out and improve your home's energy efficiency. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, sealing gaps and cracks can help reduce the need for chemical pest control methods.
Maintain Your Yard and Garden
Pests are often attracted to overgrown vegetation, standing water, and debris in your yard. To deter pests from entering your home, maintain your yard by trimming bushes and trees, removing dead leaves and branches, and eliminating standing water. The National Pest Management Association recommends trimming tree branches and shrubs away from your home, as they can provide a bridge for pests to enter.
- Remove standing water from birdbaths, gutters, and flower pots to discourage mosquito breeding.
- Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground to prevent termite infestations.
- Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent debris buildup, which can attract pests.
Properly Store Food and Dispose of Waste
Pests are often attracted to food sources and waste, so it's essential to properly store food and dispose of waste to minimize the risk of infestations. Keep food in airtight containers and clean up spills and crumbs immediately. Dispose of garbage regularly and use a trash can with a tight-fitting lid to prevent pests from accessing your waste. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that proper sanitation is crucial in preventing rodent infestations.
Monitor and Address Moisture Issues
Many pests, such as termites and ants, are attracted to moisture. To prevent these pests from infesting your home, address any moisture issues, such as leaky pipes, clogged gutters, or poor ventilation. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home, like basements and crawl spaces, to reduce humidity levels and discourage pest activity.
Schedule Regular Pest Inspections
Even with diligent prevention efforts, pests can still find their way into your home. Regular pest inspections with a professional pest control company, like Venables Pest Management, can help identify and address potential pest problems before they become significant infestations. Our trained technicians can provide expert advice and effective treatments to keep your home pest-free.
Following these spring and summer pest prevention tips, you can enjoy a pest-free home during the warmer months. If you need assistance with pest prevention or are experiencing a pest problem, contact Venables Pest Management today.
Contact Venables Pest Management to help prepare your home for spring and summer pests and keep your home protected all year long!