As allergy season sets in, springtime Calgary pest control becomes essential. Many pests invade homes seeking shelter, and the last thing any homeowner wants is to deal with unwelcome guests scurrying around their home. Fortunately, with a proactive approach, you can prevent pests from making your house their spring retreat. Here are some essential spring pest prevention tips to keep your home protected.
Tip #1: Seal Entry Points
Spring pest control is effective because pests often enter homes through small cracks, gaps, and openings. Even the tiniest holes can be an invitation for rodents and insects. Inspect the exterior of your home, particularly around doors, windows, vents, and the foundation. If you find any cracks or holes, seal them with caulk, steel wool, or weather stripping. Installing door sweeps on exterior doors can eliminate gaps at the bottom that rodents may use as entryways. Additionally, using mesh screens on vents and chimneys helps prevent pests from sneaking in.
Tip #2: Store Food Properly
Another spring pest control tip is to be mindful of the food in your home. A readily available food source will attract pests and encourage them to stay. To minimize this risk, keep dry food, pet food, and birdseed in airtight containers. Regularly cleaning out the pantry to remove crumbs and spills will also help. Avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight, as food residue can attract pests. Taking out the trash frequently and using a bin with a tight-fitting lid further reduces the likelihood of pests finding food in your home.
Tip #3: Maintain Proper Ventilation and Moisture Control
Many pests thrive in damp environments, so reducing moisture can deter them. Fixing leaky pipes and faucets prevents water accumulation, which is essential for keeping pests like cockroaches and silverfish at bay. Using a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements and crawl spaces can also help. Ensuring that gutters are clean will prevent water buildup around your home. Additionally, using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens reduces humidity, making your home less appealing to moisture-loving pests.
Tip #4: Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
Spring weather can cause damage to a home’s exterior, creating entry points for pests. Checking the roof for loose shingles or holes where rodents could squeeze in is crucial. Ensuring that vents are intact and properly sealed will help prevent infestations. Removing debris around the house, such as piles of leaves and wood, can also deter pests from settling near your home.
Tip #5: Be Mindful of Your Decor
Seasonal decorations, especially live greenery like plants and Christmas trees, can harbour pests. Before bringing decorations inside, scrutinize them to check for bugs or rodents. Storing decorations in plastic bins rather than cardboard can help deter pests, as cardboard is more susceptible to infestations. When using firewood, shake it out before bringing it indoors to avoid transporting insects into your home.
Tip #6: Be Aware of Pet Food and Water Bowls
Pet food can attract rodents, cockroaches, and other pests if left exposed. Storing pet food in sealed containers rather than the original bag will help prevent infestations. If possible, avoid leaving food or water out overnight. Regularly cleaning feeding areas to remove crumbs and spills can also make a significant difference in keeping pests away.
This predatory behaviour of wasps nourishes their larvae and helps control the populations of these insects, many of which are pests.
Tip #7: Work with a Pest Control Professional
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, pests still find a way in. A professional pest control service like Ecopest can provide thorough inspections and effective treatment plans. Scheduling routine inspections, especially if you’ve had pest problems in the past, can help prevent future infestations. Preventative treatments can also be a worthwhile investment to keep pests out before they become an issue.
Ecopest is your trusted Calgary Pest Control Service
Preventing pests in springtime requires a combination of home maintenance, cleanliness, and vigilance. With these proactive measures, you’ll enjoy a pest-free spring season. If you notice any signs of pests, don’t hesitate to contact us before the problem worsens. After all, the only guests you want in your home this spring are the ones you invited!