Pest Control Advice

From creepy spiders to bait-shy rats to mosquitoes that buzz in your ear, small crawling and flying pests can be one of the biggest pet peeves in your home. But don't despair — it's possible to keep these unwelcome critters off your residential property.

While specific pest control measures may be necessary to fend off certain types of pests at your home, there are some general steps you can take to fight off all unwanted pest guests. The following tips can help keep most pests out of your home.

Block potential entry points into your home

Many pest guests end up in homes and other buildings while seeking refuge from the harsh weather outside. For example, pests such as spiders, ladybugs, and box elders will often invade your home during fall to seek out shelter in preparation for the coming winter months.

You can control pest infestations at home by learning how pests respond to changes in weather and then taking steps to deny them entry into the property. Some of the steps to take include:

• Seal cracks in walls
• Caulk cracks around windows and doors
• Seal utility openings, including electrical and plumbing connections
• Install the appropriate bottom seals under your doors
• Install wire mesh over roof, attic, and crawl space vents to exclude birds, rodents, and other wildlife
• Invest in a chimney cap to keep birds, rodents, and other nuisance wildlife at bay

You might not be able to catch all potential entry points for pests, but try to block as many as you can.

Maintain sanitary conditions at home

While some pests may come into your home to seek out shelter from inclement weather conditions, others are attracted to the filth inside the space.

House flies are a perfect example of pests that love a dirty, stinky house. These insects breed and feed in filth such as spoiled food, garbage, and cat litter. Poor sanitation around the home is a welcome invitation for such pesky pests.

You can keep house flies and other filthy pests out of your abode by keeping it clean and sanitary at all times. Pay special attention to the kitchen, bathroom, and other areas of the home where filthy material is likely to be found.

Need a pest control solution for your home? Every home is different, so you need a solution that has been tailored to your specific situation and needs. Contact a residential pest control professional for more information.