By: Mitch | Last updated March 16, 2023 
Nobody likes an unwanted guest in their home, but pests can often go undetected until the problem has become too big to handle. Pests such as mice, ants, mosquitoes, termites, and roaches are not only unappealing to look at – they can also cause serious damage to your property or even make you or your family members get sick! As a homeowner, you know that prevention is key when it comes to pest control. That’s why we spoke with experts across various fields of entomology and pest control professionals who customized these seven essential tips on how homeowners can protect their homes from pests all year round. Read on for more detailed advice so you can keep annoying house guests at bay!
Your home’s structure, outdoor features and landscaping, temperature, entry points, cleaning habits, and food supply can all influence the likelihood of a pest problem. Consider your home’s exterior – clogged gutters, overgrown trees and shrubs near windows or doors can offer pests easy access inside. Look out for any standing water sources around your property as these are attractive environments where pests like to thrive. Furthermore, consult with your local exterminators about the general information on proper prevention and protection against local pests. Therefore, if you are from Albany, NY you would logically look for pest control in Albany, NY to help you. Conversely, if you are from Brooklyn, you would search for pest experts in Brooklyn. Aside from that, inside the house, moisture can create a haven for pests – always address leaks and standing water right away. If you keep pet food out overnight and leave crumbs on countertops or have unclean dishes piled up within reach of pests, they will find something to feed on! Taking note of what conditions may be encouraging pest activity within and around your home is key to proactively preventing an unwelcome infestation.
You can prevent pests by maintaining basic sanitation measures in your home, like routinely cleaning dishes and sweeping floors. Try to keep your kitchen free of leftover food scraps, which are sure to attract bugs and rodents. By sealing off any cracks or access points around the perimeter of your house, you can make it less appealing to pests looking for a place to call home. Furthermore, consider investing in mesh screens that can prevent insects from entering through windows or doorways. Taking preventive measures will help ensure a pest-free environment for you and your family for years to come.
Rubbish such as empty cans, bottles, and paper bags should be removed from your yard on a regular basis to reduce the chances of luring pests into your home. Additionally, firewood should be kept at least 20 feet away from the foundation of your house and any other structures on your property - this will prevent invasive creatures like ants and rodents from getting inside.
Allowing food to be exposed, whether it’s on the countertop or in a pantry, creates an inviting environment for mice, cockroaches, and other nuisance critters. Sealing all food items in glass or plastic containers that can be tightly secured is a simple but effective way to deny pests their favorite snack. Storing your containers in a cool, dry area further reduces the likelihood of pests gaining access.
Be sure to check all nooks and crannies - even behind baseboards, window and door frames, and pipes - for signs of pests. Pay particular attention to points of entry such as garage doors, window screens, and other openings that could allow an intruding infestation. Look for holes in fabrics or walls, droppings, evidence of gnawing or scurrying noises, nesting materials, or discarded husks or shells from insects or rodents living inside your home.
Before you panic and head straight for a can of pesticides, take initiative in identifying exactly what kind of pests have moved into your home. Where did you first spot them? Pay special attention and take note - this may give you some clues as to what type of pest you’re dealing with. When did they first appear? Did they show up after rain or during warm weather? Get informed about the species that commonly attack homes in your area so that you know what to look out for. By being thorough and taking active steps, you can effectively differentiate between troublesome intruders and harmless visitors.
Professional pest control services provide much more effective solutions that work quickly and safely to remove pests, so they can no longer cause a nuisance in your home. Expert companies also understand which chemicals or tools are best to use on certain types of pests, know where these animals are likely hiding, and how to prevent future infestations. When it comes to getting rid of pests, do-it-yourself remedies often fail – professional pest control is the most reliable option for banishing pesky critters from your home for good.
This includes thorough vacuuming and wiping down hard surfaces like countertops. In addition, homeowners should seal any cracks or crevices in the walls or floors which may have been overlooked before the treatment. Doing so will reduce the possibility of home invasions by pests! It's also wise to regularly check around vulnerable areas like stairwells and doors for any signs of infestation. Taking these preventative steps after a pest control treatment can provide much-needed peace of mind for homeowners that their pest issues have been properly taken care of.
In conclusion, keeping your home free of pests requires a combination of preventive measures and the diligence to maintain them. A few proactive steps such as relocating yard rubbish and debris away from the house, sealing food in airtight containers, and regularly inspecting the premises will help prevent pest infestation. If you do notice signs of an invasion, though, it’s best to take action quickly before the problem escalates. DIY solutions may be suitable for minor infestations, but professional treatments might be necessary for heavy ones. Finally, post-treatment cleanup is important for making sure that no new pests take up residence in your home in the future.
