As the weather starts warming up, the threat of pests coming into your home increases. Not only do these critters have the potential to cause serious damage to your home, they can also affect your health and that of your family and even your pets. As you tackle your spring cleaning list this season, make sure to add the following tips to help protect your home from pests.

Address Entry Points

The colder temperatures and precipitation of winter can have quite an impact on your home. Your first line of protection against pests is to walk around the perimeter of your home, looking for any cracks or openings around utilities and pipes that go into your home. Seal all of these entry points with silicone caulk, no matter how small they may seem. Mice only need a spot the size of a dime for entry and bugs can fit through the tiniest spaces.

While you are tackling the perimeter of your home, also check for any damaged or loose areas of mortar along your foundation and around your windows. Repair or seal these areas as well if they’ve been damaged.

Weather stripping is another area that requires attention. Over time, it can become worn, torn and loose, which leaves gaps. Replacing weather stripping will help keep pests out, and help regulate the temperature in your home at the same time.

Keep Things Dry

Standing water and moisture attract a variety of pests and bugs. Clean up any areas of standing water around your home, including in the garage, crawl spaces and attic. If you have low areas outside that tend to hold water, fill them in with additional dirt to make sure they don’t become a breeding ground for mosquitos and other pests.

You will also need to clean out your gutters and make sure they are flowing properly. The stagnant water and rotting debris also attract pests that will be all too happy to come right into your home.

Check Your Roof

Inspect your fascia and shingles to make sure there are no areas of damage or deterioration. If so, either repair them or contact a professional to help you do so. There are a number of pests that are attracted to rotting and damaged wood.

Wood Considerations

While mulch is a popular choice for flowerbeds and around shrubbery, it can also become the perfect breeding area for termites. Keep all mulch, shrubs and bushes a minimum of 15 inches from your foundation. While you’re working in these areas, keep an eye out for mud tubes leading into your foundation, as these are signs that termites are already invading your home.

You should also remove any rotting stumps that are located near your home. If you have a wood pile, it should be a minimum of 20 feet from your house to keep pests away that might be looking for something tastier than firewood. For even more protection, make sure the piles of wood are around six inches off the ground to avoid attracting termites that you might inadvertently carry inside later.

Address Clutter

If your attic or garage is filled with boxes, you are creating attractive spaces for mice and spiders. Get rid of things you no longer need, and pack everything else in plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. This will eliminate areas where these pests can hide and protect your valuable items as well.

If you already have an infestation, or suspect that pests have already made it indoors, make sure to contact a pest control specialist to help you address the problem before it becomes a bigger issue. Sugarland Exterminating has the experience you need to get rid of any pest problem, and keep them from coming back. Call us today to schedule your pest inspection!