How to Prevent Pest Infestations this Fall in Ocala, FL; Home Sealing, Remove Water Sources & More
As the temperatures drop, the food becomes scarce and predators are more active. More and more pests will take refuge in your home or business. Though Florida has moderate winters, the pests will still try to find shelter from the weather as well as convenient food and water sources. Most pests are opportunists, but others will try to get in. A rat needs only a quarter-sized hole, a mouse a dime-sized hole, and smaller pests, such as insects, need far less. When it comes to preventative measures, the basics are sanitation guidelines and keeping your home well sealed. Today, we at Pest 911 would like to elaborate on better fortifying your home to prevent most pests from coming indoors.
Exterior Pest Prevention Tips
Trim Trees & Plants Away from House – This is the perfect time of year to trim the vegetation away from the structure. Vegetation is a natural habitat for the majority of pests and as opportunists, being so close to the structure, they can easily make their way in. Trimming the shrubs, pruning the trees, and cutting the grass away from the home can help minimize intrusions.
Remove Yard Waste Where Pests Can Hide & Nest – Another habitat for many pests is to find loose soil or debris to nest, burrow, and find harborage, making clutter a pest motel. Wood, bricks, yard waste, and other materials should be tossed, or if you wish to keep them, stored in an organized fashion on pallets as far from the home as possible. Be sure to discard the vegetation waste and garbage though. Any outdoor trashcans should be stored away from the house, washed out once a month with hot soapy water, and secure with a pest-proof lid.
Remove Water Sources to Deter Pests – Like most living things, water is essential for pests. Allowing standing forms of water available can attract pest. Repair leaks and ensure the gutters are functioning and downspouts are pointing away from the house. If you keep pet food outside, make sure it stored in a sealable container or pests will be attracted to the effortless food source.
Exterior Home Sealing from Pests – Finally, the structure, from the roof down to the foundation, inspect the home for cracks, holes, and fractures and get them repaired and/or sealed appropriately. If you are unsure, a handyman should be able to help you with this task.
How to Prevent Pests Entering Your Home
Declutter to Prevent Pests – Just like the exterior, the interior needs attention. It’s best to remove clutter such as old magazines or mail, stacks of fabrics and any other undisturbed piles of belongings that pests will hide in. Trash needs to be tossed and donate or sell any items you do not use to cut back the clutter. Trash cans need to be washed with hot soapy water once a month, secure with tight fitting lids, and always use liners.
Seal Food & Clean Crumbs – Clear out the cabinets, drawers, and pantry, tossing the crumbs and spilled food. Transfer food packaged in thin plastic, cardboard, or paper into tight sealable containers, as well as any pet food. Repair any water leaks. Seal any found holes or cracks and ensure the weather stripping is in good condition along windows and doors. Always practice good cleaning habits by containing trash and cleaning up after snacks and meals; never leave food or crumbs out.
Year Round Pest Management Services
Finally, call Pest 911 and let our experts eliminate any current infestations and apply pest control maintenance to prevent pests from coming in on their own. Contact us today!
