Looking forward to the winter months when pests may hibernate or find a warmer place to live? Unfortunately, a warmer place to live could include inside your home. Read on to learn how you can prepare to maintain rodent control in Austin and deter other pests over the winter months.
Start Outside
You may think that keeping pests out of your home involves preparing your home on the inside, but focusing your attention on the outside of your home may actually be the best method of prevention.
Eliminate comfortable, inviting habitats for pests to discourage them from settling near your home. For example, many insects seek out moist, dark places that contain a food source. Keep areas around the home dry, well-lit and free of food sources in order to keep pests away. Insects typically eat leaves, fruit and other insects.
Trash piles and garbage cans attract pests, so keep trash cans as far away from your home as possible. Keep in mind that insects can attract larger pests like mice and rats, so aiming to eliminate insect problems could help control populations of larger pests as well.
Make Entry Difficult
Pests need to find an entry point in order to make their way into a home, so work on sealing off any unintentional entrances. The Environmental Protection Agency advises homeowners to keep windows sealed by caulking any cracks or holes around the window.
Any cracks in the foundation or around doorways can be used by pests to gain access to the home, so take the time to fill in these gaps.
Don’t forget that pests can use a chimney as an entry point as well. Invest in a screen that does not allow insects, birds or rodents in your chimney, and remember to close the flue when the fireplace is not in use.
The best way to ensure Austin pest control is effective over the winter months is by contacting our specialists at ABC Home & Commercial Services. ABC has been providing pest control in Austin for over 40 years. We are reliable, family-owned and dedicated to providing Austinites with the best service in town.