It’s a well-known fact that pests can’t read. So putting up a sign that says “No Trespassing” or “No Pests Allowed” is most likely not going to keep them out of your home. And even if they could read, they probably would come in anyway; after all, they’re pests! How can you keep summer pests out of your home?

Check YourDoors and Windows

You close your doors and windows to keep out large intruders, but they can be perfect places for insects to enter your home. A quick inspection of your doors and windows will likely surprise you; you’ll see numerous small gaps and openings where insects and even mice can enter. Install an aluminum threshold under the door, and for added protection add a nylon door sweep. This will close the gap between the door and threshold. Weatherstripping and calk can also be used to seal holes and gaps.

Take a Look at Your Yard

Pest control actually begins outside. Insects need and want water, so check your yard to see if there are places where water pools or accumulates. Standing water is a perfect breeding place for mosquitoes and other pests. Clean and maintain drainage channels regularly, and build up areas in your yard where water can pool and stand. Pools should be chlorinated and filtered. Water in birdbaths and fountains should be changed twice a week. Also, don’t allow piles of leaves and debris to accumulate. These are also likely breeding places for insects.

Pests Are Small!

Inspect the outside walls and foundation of your home. A mouse only needs a hole the width of a pencil to get inside, and insects can get in through the tiniest gaps and openings. Missing siding, damaged or cracked blocks or bricks, and rotted wood are good places to inspect closely.

Seal Around Pipes

Look at the places where utility pipes and cables enter your home: water, gas, electric, air conditioning, Internet, cable TV, telephone, etc. Fill gaps with sealants or calk, and for larger openings, use expandable polyurethane foam. Check your roof and seal openings for vents and pipes.

Pests Get Hungry Too!

If food sources are available, you can be sure that you’ll have pests. Store all of your food in airtight containers, and put unsealed food in the refrigerator. Don’t allow food or dirty dishes to stay out for a long time. Thoroughly clean dining areas after each meal. Even the smallest crumbs can attract uninvited guests.  This includes pet food; ants and cockroaches aren’t picky. Store pet food in insect-proof containers.

If you need help removing anything that may contribute to a pest problem this summer, call Preventive Pest Control – Houston today!