Spring is in full bloom, and so are pests looking for new homes! From ants to termites and mosquitoes, these critters love the warmer weather as much as we do. The good news? A few proactive DIY steps can help keep your home pest-free all season long. Here’s a spring pest prevention checklist to get you started!
Pests often make their way into your home from the outside. Here’s how you can stop them:
Trim Bushes and Trees: Overhanging branches or shrubs near your home provide easy access for pests. Keep them trimmed back!
Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes can lay eggs in just a small puddle of water. Empty buckets, planters, and other containers to reduce breeding grounds.
Clear Yard Debris: Rake leaves, remove fallen branches, and get rid of rotting wood piles where pests like spiders, termites and rodents can hide.
Inspect Outdoor Lights: Replace bright outdoor bulbs with yellow or sodium vapor lights to attract fewer insects.
Seal Cracks and Holes: Check your foundation, walls, and roofline for gaps that pests can crawl through. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these entry points.
Once pests find a way in, they look for food, water, and shelter. Prevent them from feeling at home with these tips:
Keep a Clean Kitchen: Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and store food in airtight containers to avoid attracting ants and cockroaches.
Fix Plumbing Leaks: Termites and silverfish thrive in damp areas. Repair leaky faucets or pipes and reduce moisture buildup.
Inspect Screens and Doors: Torn window screens or loose-fitting door seals make it easy for bugs to sneak in. Repair or replace them as needed.
Empty Trash Regularly: Use garbage bins with tight-fitting lids and take out the trash frequently.
Declutter and Organize: Pests love hiding in clutter. Organize storage spaces and get rid of items you no longer need.
For extra pest protection, try these additional steps:
Store Firewood Properly: Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and off the ground to deter termites.
Check Pets for Pests: Inspect your pets for fleas or ticks after outdoor activities.
Keep Gutters Clean: Clogged gutters can create standing water and attract pests. Regularly clean them out during spring.
Schedule an Inspection: Consider a professional pest inspection to ensure your home is pest-free and address issues early.