Have you ever woken up to the sound of scurrying feet across your ceiling? Or maybe spotted some electrical wiring that’s been chewed through? If the answer is yes then you are definitely not alone. It’s happened to most homeowners at some point. Although summer is the time for pests, you should never let down your guard when the winter wind blows and the snow starts to fall. Don’t know where to start with your winter pest control tips? Here are some preventative measures you can take to stop pests infesting this winter.
Winter Pest Control Tips: Winterising
One of the first winter pest control tips you should definitely follow is something called winterising. If you haven’t winterised your home, there’s no time like the present to take advantage of one of the best winter pest control tips. This makes sure that your beloved home is prepared for winter.
So how do we do the greatest of all winter pest control tips, winterising? Install some weather stripping around your windows and doors if you don’t have any. Be sure to check over your plumbing for any leaks. These can create standing water, which is a big attractor of pests.
If you have a fireplace, it’s important to keep it properly maintained at all times as one of our winter pest control tips. Pests will be more than happy to nest in your chimney if it goes unattended.
To keep pests out of your gutters, make sure to clean out any of the autumn fallen leaves. You should also remove any general debris from the guttering and downspout. This is a great pest control tip for the spring as well, as pests look to your guttering as a place to nest.
Decluttering Can Help
The next on our list of winter pest control tips is decluttering. Pests will be more than happy to cosy up in your personal possessions. So be sure to keep all of your storage areas and closets free of clutter. Any paper or materials that could be used to make a nest should be stored in a container that no pests can enter.
Outside shouldn’t be neglected either in your decluttering process. Organising your shed and garage will help to get rid of any clutter that’s gathered over the year. From spiders to rodents, pests will love any clutter in your home, so it’s best to stay as organised as possible.
Any autumn leaves that have fallen should be raked up and disposed of before winter hits. There’s nothing a pest loves more than making a nest in piles of autumn leaves.
Seal Cracks And Holes
Gaps and holes around your property are the perfect way for a cold critter to break into your heated home. That’s why it’s so important to find and seal any holes or cracks around your home’s exterior. You will find any of these entry points by thoroughly inspecting the perimeter of your property. Then firmly seal any gaps and holes you find. Here’s a great tip. Pay special attention to where utilities and pipes enter your home, because this is usually where you will find the cracks and gaps that need sealing.
Now that you’ve inspected the outside of your property, it’s time to move indoors. Look in the corners, behind furniture and in fixed cabinets for any holes and gaps that a pest could use. If you find them, make sure to use a high-quality sealant. Foam is usually better for bigger holes.
Proper Food And Rubbish Storage
Storing food and disposing of your rubbish properly can help to keep winter pests out of your home. It will certainly discourage them from making a permanent home in your house. The best thing you can do is store any leftover food in airtight containers. Bins should be kept away from the perimeter of your home. Rubbish should be disposed of in bins that have a sealed lid because pests can easily get in and make a mess.
Just as important as all of these winter pest control tips is calling a professional pest controller if you do fall prey to winter pests. We offer a full range of pest control treatments for many different winter pests. You can get in touch with Empire today to find out more about our residential pest control.
Remove Moisture
Have you been battling with a clogged drain for months? Or has there been a leaky pipe that produces a puddle on the floor? Maybe there’s even that dripping tap that’s been driving you mad.
It may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to winter pest control, but moisture means water. Water is essential for a pest to survive. Having excess water around your property will leave you open to pest problems. Leaks also can damage your property, so it’s best to address and moisture issues as soon as they occur.
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