Roaches, rats, bats, birds, and even ants can all wreak havoc on your home and health. With so many different pests out there, you may be overwhelmed by the best practices to protect your home. Thankfully, help is available if you are a homeowner. This guide will help you learn a few common things that are attracting various pests to your home.
Moisture
You may be surprised to learn moisture could be attracting numerous types of pests to your home. Of course, moisture in and around your home can be a problem for a few reasons.
If you have a hidden water leak, pests will find the extra moisture appealing. Also, if you have higher levels of humidity in your home, whether due to an underlying leak, improper insulation, or an HVAC issue, you may have a pest problem.
Moisture can also be a problem outside your home. Unlevel lawns that hold water can attract all sorts of pests to your home. Also, if you have unused pots and planters around the house, they can become a breeding ground for pests, such as mosquitoes. Because most pests need water to survive, a moisture problem in and around your home can lead to pest infestations.
Clutter
Large amounts of clutter can also attract pests to your home. The clutter does not necessarily have to be dirty, but piles of clutter can become excellent hiding and nesting spots for different pests, especially mice, rats, termites, and even wildlife such as squirrels and raccoons.
Declutter your home, removing piles of clothes, magazines, newspapers, cardboard, and even lumber. Even piles of firewood and project lumber, when improperly stored, can increase the risk of a termite infestation or carpenter ant problem since both of these insects are attracted to wood.
Warmth
Finally, the warmth of your home may attract pests. Unfortunately, this warmth may be necessary for you and your family, especially during the winter season. Although you cannot make your home less warm, you can make it less accessible for pests.
Walk around your home's exterior to determine if there are any open cracks and crevices in the siding, roof, or foundation. Use caulk or silicone to seal up these openings, preventing pests from entering your home. Remember that certain pests, such as insects and mice, can enter your home through the tiniest of holes. Seal your home to prevent mice.
Also, consider treating the perimeter of your home with a pesticide, which will act as a barrier between your home and the outdoors. Pests will be repelled by the pesticide, ensuring they do not enter your home in search of food or warmth.
Share25 January 2019
