By the time you notice some pests crawling through your home, it might already be too late. The sign of a single pest can show a much greater problem. A pest control company can help you determine the extent of your problem together with helping you establish a plan to reduce the chances of pest returning. However, you can prevent pest infestation before they have a chance to invade. The following strategies will help you keep your home free from pests during the winter.
Making seasonal checks
Pests look for shelter during cold winter seasons. Therefore it is crucial to check your home for areas that might be susceptible to be the entry point for small animals. Even thick cracks in the foundation or thick holes in the roof can be a way through for squirrels, mice, and other pest and animals to enter your home.
Trimming of tree limbs and branches around your home
Pests like raccoons and squirrels can dash through tree limbs and branches to make their way to your inhabitants. Hiring a professional tree service company to cut back overgrown limbs and branches can eliminate a potential entry point for the pests.
Sealing of holes and openings in your windows and doors
Make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed and insulated to prevent entry of small pests and insects. This will also help in making your home more energy efficient.
Removing wood piles and debris
Small pests and insects normally take shelter in moist and dark places. Therefore, you should not allow mulch or soil to build up near your foundation. Furthermore, ensure you have stored the firewood away from your home.
Securing indoors and outdoors containers
Ensure that the recycling bin and garbage cans are sealed and placed away from your house. If you want to do compost, consider doing it in a top-closed bin, and place it as far away from your home as possible.
Cleaning the kitchen
Make sure you clear foodstuff from all the surfaces, clean the dishes every night and sweep the crumbs away from your floors. Your kitchen could be discerned as a buffet to pest if you are not responsible for keeping it free from food that is easily accessible.
Scheduling routine inspections
Even if you have not noticed any infestation or pest problem, having your home inspected and treated by a professional periodically can help you keep your home free from pest. You can also ask them of the possible infestations of pests such as bed bugs, rodents or termites.