Spring is finally here, and after a long, grueling winter, it’s time to get out and enjoy the nice weather.
Unfortunately, we’re not the only ones emerging after frigid temperatures thaw. It’s primetime for insects and pests as they get ready for the returning greenery.
What’s worse is the harsh toll winter can take on your home and yard. Have no fear! There are some simple steps you can take to have a pest-free house this spring. With a little maintenance and time well-spend, you can fortify your home for the year with these nine easy tips.
1. Perform Seasonal Maintenance
The first place to start after a long cold season is seasonal maintenance. Winter can be harsh on your home from the snow and thaw to the winds and ice. The extreme weather and temperatures can cause cracks and breaks. Time itself also lends some damage with regular wear and tear. All of this makes it easy for pests to get inside your home. As the weather warms up, look at your home’s exterior and see which areas need some TLC.
2. Clear out Seasonal Debris
Fall and winter can leave behind a big mess. Between snow run-off and piles of leaves, your yard may be quite a mess by the time spring rolls around. Pests love piles of debris, and as the world begins to thaw, you may end up with additional moisture in your yard.
Aside from leftover leaves and dead wood, you may have thick areas of overgrowth starting to form. Don’t let it. Take care of these messes before the pests return. Discourage them from even thinking about coming to your home.
3. Regularly Cut Grass and Clear Weeds
It may seem like too early to start cutting your grass, but trust us, it’s not. It’s better to cut your grass early before it becomes overgrown. Don’t give it that chance; pests especially enjoy overgrown and parasites like ticks use tall grass to reach their hosts. Jumping on your lawn and yard care early is a great way to keep on top of the growth in your yard.
The same can be said for weeds. As the weather warms, weeds will begin sprouting just about anywhere, but if you nip the problem in the bud, you won’t have to wrestle with tall growth of any sort, which will encourage pests to look elsewhere.
4. Check out Your Trees
Checking out the trees in your yard may be one of the last things on your mind as winter fades, but you should remember to look. Trees take a lot of damage in the winter; some may have leaning branches, dead limbs, or they might be the perfect way for wildlife to get to the roof of your house.
Additionally, if you have a dead or dying tree, that can also be a draw for dangerous insects, like termites. Make it a point to check the trees in your yard to avoid potential issues in the future.
5. Seal up cracks in Doors, Windows, and Other Openings
As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to seal any potential openings or tears that occur during the fall and winter. Cracks in foundation or underneath doors are perfect opportunities for pests to sneak inside. Also, keep an eye on your windows. Torn screens or damaged screens are easy ways to let in flies, wasps, and other flying insects.
During your repairs, keep in mind, some areas that need covering don’t have to be “damage repair.” Vents and pipes are also ways for pests to access your home. Take the time to cover any holes with caulking, mesh, or other methods to keep pests out.
6. Watch out for Stagnant Water
Whether it’s in a birdbath, a stuffed gutter, or a thawing puddle in your backyard, stagnant water is a prime spot for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes only need a little still water to lay their eggs, and you may end up with a whole mess in your yard and home. Pools of water can also be a draw to other pests.
When looking for a home, pests are searching for two key essentials: food and water. During your regular maintenance, it’s a good idea to mark any areas where water pools or open rushing water.
7. Care for Outdoor Storage
It’s time to dust off your gardening tools and clean out your garages. To keep your home and yard pest-free, you have to get rid of any potential living areas. Garages, tool sheds, or any outdoor storage units are perfect places for pests to hide during and after winter. All types of creatures like to take shelter in cluttered, seemingly untouched areas, like snakes, spiders, and other various wildlife. Don’t give them a cozy place to stay.
Additionally, if you have woodpiles or logs, it’s best to move or store them away from the house. Having them too close could attract termites and other pests to the more ideal living space of your home.
8. Cut off the Food Sources
An easy way to ensure pests aren’t drawn to your house this spring is by cutting off their food source. Any garbage or recycling bins should be covered when left outside. Be mindful of garbage pick-up days or how close you are to the dumpsters. The smell of food can not only draw insects and rodents but some larger wildlife as well. Be sure to keep things covered and sealed tightly to discourage any unwanted visitors.
9. Get Regular Inspections
Whether your pest-free or you have an infestation, scheduling a regular inspection is a good idea. A professional pest control expert will not only help you take care of any problems, but they may be able to spot a potential issue before it happens. Regular maintenance is an excellent way to stay ahead of the curve, but routine inspections can fortify your property, especially against what you don’t always see.
Concluding Thoughts
A little extra time at the start of Spring can save you from unwanted pest headaches in the future. Regular maintenance, routine inspections, and a little preventative care are the best ingredients for a pest-free spring season. If you are experiencing a pest problem or want to protect your home, reach out to a pest control expert today.
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