7 Easy Ways to Keep Pests Out of Your Home

Do you constantly find yourself swatting at a fly, squishing a bug, or setting up a trap for a pest that managed to find its way into your home? Killing these pests isn’t always easy (or fun), so it pays to take precautions in order to avoid their presence in the first place.

• Screened In – Make sure each and every window in your home is equipped with a fine mesh screen to prevent almost all insects from entering while the windows are open. Always keep the screens closed and regularly inspect them for tears and large holes.
• Seal the Envelope – Inspect the foundation, siding, and exterior walls for any cracks, gaps, and holes. If any exist, purchase the appropriate caulking and seal these areas.
• Wire Mesh – Roof ventilation and chimneys can act as a welcome mat to wildlife, such as squirrels, chipmunks, mice, bats, birds, etc. Many of these animals can also carry other pests like fleas and mites. Keep these pests out of your home by installing a wire mesh over these open surfaces.
• Leak-Free – Many different types of pests are attracted to moisture and high-humidity conditions. Plumbing leaks can provide these bugs and rodents with the perfect living conditions. Therefore, contact your local plumber to service any leaky pipes and fixtures.
• Clean Kitchen – This one is the no-brainer on the list — keep your kitchen clean! You like the kitchen because you can eat and drink there; pests like the kitchen for the same exact reason. Always wipe up spills and crumbs immediately, take out the trash regularly, clean dishes within a reasonable time, and sweep each and every day.
• Inspect Your Pets – Dogs and cats will oftentimes spend some time playing outside and exploring. Pets can easily come into contact with ticks, fleas, mites, and other small insects. Before you allow your pet back inside, give them a quick inspection to make sure they aren’t bringing in any uninvited dinner guests…
• Keep Wood Away – Having wood on the outside of your home (wood siding, deck, firewood, etc.) can invite termites over for a lovely meal — where they will eventually make their way into your home. If any wood is touching the soil, termites will have easy access and begin eating away at it. Keep all firewood away from the house and any other types of wood at least six inches away from the soil.

Every once in awhile an insect or rodent will find its way into your home, but there are ways to easily limit these chances. If your home ever falls victim to a pest infestation of any kind, contact Knockout Pest Control. To learn more or to schedule an inspection, give us a call at (800) 244-7378.

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