Insects, bugs, rodents and other animals are all part of coexisting in our environment, but that doesn't mean we want them in our homes. Bugs and critters can vary based on where you live, especially if you are rural or closer to a city. Either way, if you're facing some pesky pests this summer, here are some pro tips for how to manage them.
Access your situation. You can see what you may or may not be dealing with by placing sticky traps in each room to determine what (if any) pests you may have. Once you determine what kind of pests you have in your home, you can come up with a remediation plan.
Check your sink drains. This one can be easy to forget, but is a spot bugs love to accumulate. Don't forget to check and regularly clean your sinks and floor drains throughout the home, including areas that aren't used often and your basement, if you have one.
Get rid of moisture. Bugs love moisture. One way to help reduce moisture is by purchasing a dehumidifier.
Scrub those garbage cans. Unfortunately, lining garbage cans with a bag is not usually enough to keep debris from accumulating inside and outside the garbage can. Often you might not even see or think it's a big deal, however, it is a magnet for bugs. Taking the time to regularly clean the inside and outside of your garbage cans will help eliminate and unwanted odors and help keep the bugs away from your trash!
Combat plan. There are good options here for folks who prefer to avoid chemicals and for those who prefer a more natural approach. For those who prefer the more traditional approach, you can apply a granular insecticide around the perimeter of your home. Also take care to spray a residual insecticide under the window entries, door entries, eaves, and foundation. For a more natural approach, you can make your own solution using water, vinegar and essential oils.
Consider your wood storage. Wood piles can harbor a whole host of insects and critters. If you have a fire pit, outdoor fireplace or store wood for indoor fireplaces outdoors, take care to store it as far away from the home as possible and never stack it against your home.
Get out the caulk. Sealing your windows, door frames and repairing any damaged screens will not only help keep the bugs out, it can also help keep your home more energy efficient and maybe even save you some money on your energy bills!
Tree and shrub maintenance. Any trees or bushes that are touching your home need to be trimmed. Proper landscaping maintenance removes easy access especially for rodents to invade your home (like your roof!).
Mulch maintenance. If you have mulch touching your homes's foundation, consider removing it in lieu of stone. Mulch retains moisture, food and shelter for all kids of pests including termites.
Of course, if all of this sounds daunting, you can always consider hiring a professional to inspect and maintain your home for pest control.
Source:
https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/best-pest-control-tips-for-summer/?identityID=5b61da44b0162aca25000040&MID=2021_0713_NL_Multi_Article&RID=5526101382&cid=eml_promo_Marketing_NonPRSL_MultiArticleNL_cons.13065982_2021_0713_NL_Multi_Article-article1-blogs_own
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