5 Residential Pest Management Tips in Spring
Posted on: 3 May 2018
During winter, pests tend to enter into a dormant state because of the freezing temperatures. However, in spring, critters such as spiders, mosquitoes, ants and termites come out of hiding to feed, reproduce and seek shelter in homes. Homeowners should be watchful of the transition period from cold to warm months because it is the time when pest infestation is rampant. Here are some pest management tips during spring that homeowners might find useful.
Inspection
How do you know that your home is infested with insects and vermin? Watch out for insect wings or a trail of insects such as termites running through walls or floors.Storage areas such as basements or garages are safe havens for mice and rats, and thus, when inspecting, check for signs of droppings. Also, check for air and water leaks in caulking and weather stripping materials, which can also give a clue on whether pests have infested your home. Air pockets in roofs and foundation let in moisture needed by vermin for survival.
Maintain Your Landscape
Most homeowners let insects take control of their home because they fail to care for their plants. Although plants enhance the aesthetic appeal of a property, always ensure that the plants do not unintentionally encourage pests. Therefore, trim your plants so that they don't touch the roof or walls because such overgrown plants can form a bridge for vermin to access your home. Also, overwatering your plants generates water puddles that become breeding grounds for pests such as mosquitoes.
Garbage Bins
With all kinds of waste being disposed of in garbage bins, it is not hard to find pests sourcing for food and water in these receptacles. Therefore, place outdoor bins away from your house so that pests do not travel the short distance into your home. Close the containers with lids when not in use so that rats and mice do not enter the garbage bins. Furthermore, remember to clean the bins after removing waste to ward off pests that are attracted by the foul smell.
Use Repellants
Repellant dust has active ingredients such as silica gel and pyrethrin. The compounds work to damage the exoskeletons of insects when pests come into contact with the dust. As such, place the repellant dust in cracks and crevices in your home to manage insects like ants and fleas.
Consider Pest Control Service
Sometimes, DIY pest management measures might be insufficient to rid your home of insects and vermin that cause all kinds of diseases. It is wise to hire a pest control specialist who can assess the pest infestation in your home before coming up with a tailor-made solution to your problem.
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