Winterize Your Home Against Pests: A Holiday Message from American Pest

Thanksgiving is getting closer and closer, and everyone at American Pest is taking the time to think about the things we are thankful for. Turkey. Mom’s mashed potatoes. The Washington Capitals.

And you, our loyal customers.

Don’t be shy. We are grateful for your business, and look forward to serving your pest management needs in the future. That’s why we are here to help you prepare your home not just for the winter, but for the transition into 2011.

The fact is, pest problems may decrease over the winter season, but that doesn’t mean they go away. In a mild winter, traditional fall pests including ladybird beetles, cluster flies, and stink bugs are likely to continue clamoring to confirm their reservations in your basement.

A harsh winter can also bring in major pest problems, with rats and mice burrowing into your humble bungalow, and squirrels nesting in your attic.

Let’s not forget that spring will return before we know it. Termite swarms can be seen as early as late January, blazing the trail for ants, clover mites, and every other type of pesky pest intent on invading your home once the snow melts away.

That’s why it’s so important to remain vigilant against pests during the winter months. Everybody at American Pest is a big fan of preventative maintenance, so we have tips that should help you survive the winter season without a pest problem.

1. Block Them Out

To a pest, cracks, gaps, and breaks in walls and around electrical outlets are like the red-carpet treatment into your home. Openings less than a ¼ inch in length can be sealed with caulk, while larger holes can be filled in with copper wire mesh.

2. Rearrange the Food Pantry

Keep canned and glass items on the lower shelves of your food pantry. Boxed or plastic bagged items can be easily broken into by pests, so keep them on the top shelf and/or in plastic containers with a locking lid.

3. Move Your Wood Stock

Storing firewood against the house and on the ground is a gateway for termites to enter your home and cause significant damage. Stock your woodpile away from the house and at least five inches off the ground. 

4. Check Your Pipes

Lots of issues can arise with plumbing systems during winter, and cracked pipes, dripping faucets, or leaks can provide a generous reserve of water that will attract all of your favorite pests.

5. Eliminate Open Food Sources

Store produce like tomatoes, bananas, and cantaloupes in the refrigerator. It may take more time for these items to ripen, but they will be safe from fruit flies and other pests.

American Pest wishes all of our friends and family the best for the holidays, and we hope these tips help give your family a happy, healthy, and pest-free Thanksgiving.

We are also happy to conduct a free inspection of your home to make sure it is winter-ready and pest-free. To set up an appointment, please call us at 1-877-282-1886, or fill out our online contact form here.