How Do I Reduce Home Pests

In order to be sure that your new home is protected against pest and termite invasions, start protecting your investment before you move in. The following tips may help:

  • Check for potential pest entry points and seal cracks and holes on the exterior ofyour home.
  • Consider installing 20-mesh screen on all windows, doors, attic vents and foundation vents.
  • Seal holes around pipes indoors.
  • Paint, seal or protect exposed wood from the elements. Before painting, fill all cracks, crevices and nail holes with putty or plastic wood.
  • Make sure that at least four inches of foundation can be seen around the perimeter of your home.
  • Do not let siding and stucco extend into the soil.
  • Remove all items lying on the ground, such as piles of lumber, wood and other debris.
  • Cut back heavy vegetation, such as ivy and other ground cover, to at least 18 inches away from your home’s foundation.
  • Trim tree branches and shrubs away from the roof and walls.

After You Move In

After you move in, help keep pests to a minimum with these tips:

  • As you unpack boxes, carefully inspect items for spiders. Wear long sleeves and gloves to avoid accidental bites. Use a vacuum to remove spiders and webs and keep in mind that the spiders inside may still be alive when you empty the bag.
  • Move boxes into the garage or outside when going through those that have been stored for a long period of time, so that any spiders or insects in the boxes will be outside instead of in your home.
  • Use yellow “bug” light bulbs in exterior fixtures to attract fewer flying insects.
  • Keep garage doors closed to exclude insects and pests.
  • Store firewood and any lumber away from your home.
  • Ensure that water drains away from the foundation.
  • Correct roof and plumbing leaks as soon as possible.

Last, but far from least, take the time to reduce clutter in your basement and garage – and do not store items in your crawl space. Your cleanup efforts will be rewarded by a reduction of potential harborages for rodents, as well as for spiders and the insects they prey upon.