How to Prevent Pest Infestations
When the weather warms up, there is almost certain to be a problem with bugs outside. Unfortunately, these little critters are looking for any way that they can to get comfortable in your home. Therefore, it is important to know what can be done to protect your home both inside and out. Learn more about how to make this home less appealing so that they will have no desire to come inside.
Minimize Mulch Around the Exterior
Inspect around the house and get rid of any tree branches or shrubbery that may come near the home. If there is a flower garden growing near the home, bugs are going to live in the dirt and find their way inside the house. Consider using rocks as a form of landscaping rather than mulch.
Throw Away the Trash
Take out all the trash in your home every few days. Take it to an outside trash can with a tight-fitting lid. It is also important to throw away any outside trash such as dead plants, leaves, or any food that may have spilled outside. This way, pests will not have a desire to stick around and build a home.
Make Sure Doors and Windows Are Completely Sealed
One of the most important things that you can do is to make sure that all windows and doors are completely sealed. If there is a screen on the window or the door, make sure it is also secure with no tears. If the screen does not fit properly, get rid of it and replace it.
Check the Exterior for Cracks and Gaps
The next thing that you are going to want to do is take a walk around the outside of the house. Look for any missing shingles or any type of opening that would allow a bug to come inside the home. Consider using copper mesh or steel wool or even mortar. Don’t use caulk because bugs will eat it.
Properly Dispose of Recyclables
If you are someone who is using a recycle bin, make sure everything has been rinsed before it is placed inside the recycle bin. This will keep the bin clean and also free of bugs. Close the lid after each deposit.
Clean Water Drains
Consider pouring a combination of baking soda and vinegar into the drains regularly. Basically, this is going to get rid of build-up and gunk on the inside of the pipes. This is a simple way to prevent flies from coming into the home. Don’t forget the drains in the basement and the laundry room.
Don’t Leave Leftovers Out
Never make the mistake of leaving leftover food out on the kitchen counter. Put it away in an airtight container as soon as dinner is over. By doing this, there will be less chance of bugs getting into the food. If you are careful with pest prevention, they may decide that your home is no good and move on.
Clean the Home Regularly
You may not realize that there could be bugs living inside your home because it is not cleaned properly. Make sure the home is cleaned regularly. Wipe up any food spills and remove any crumbs that may have fallen on the floor. If you have pets, consider covering their food when they are done eating.
Get Rid of the Wood Pile
If you live in a humid area such as Charlotte, North Carolina, there is a possibility that termites are going to be an issue. Typically, they enjoy spending time near wood. Get rid of that scrap pile of wood so that the termites will find another home.
Contact an Exterminator
It never hurts to hire an exterminator to come in and spray regularly. This is the best way to avoid things such as bedbugs, mice, roaches, and spiders. In the meantime, it doesn’t hurt to have fly tape to trap any bugs that may have come inside the home.
Schedule regular appointments with an exterminator such as Sustainable Pest Systems. We guarantee you will see results and we will also warranty all services so that you are completely satisfied. We will use special products that will minimize any risk for small pests and your family and the environment. Our staff is very knowledgeable regarding what needs to be done to take charge of pests in your home. It doesn’t matter how large or how small your pest problem is, we will take on the responsibility and get rid of them.