Pest Management Advice
Pest management isn't as simple as we'd like it to be. Ideally insects, rodents, and the like would never get into our structures at all, but they do, and for health and safety reasons, it's better to deal with them sooner than later. The longer you put things off, the more the problem is likely to worse. We highly recommend that you call us the professionals at American Pest Solutions to help you with all your pest control needs. Here is some advice we have put together on protecting your home from pests.
- Do not allow food, trash, decaying wood etc. to remain in or on your property.
- Cover or seal trash tightly.
- Cut back limbs, shrubs and vines that touch or overhang your property.
- Stack firewood off the ground as far away from the structure as possible.
- "Weatherize" your home. Seal all possible pest entry points.
- Close all gaps larger than 1/4 inch.
- Check for and remove structural damage such as moisture damaged wood. Water damage can cause weak spots in the structure. pests may enter through the weakened area. Repair damaged windows and screens.
- Look for holes where roofs overlap.
- Keep gutters clean.
- Rotate stored items regularly and keep boxes tightly sealed in plastic bags.
- Check Storage area for rodents.
- Keep gutters clear.
- Keep all areas where food is prepared, stored, and served clean and free of crumbs and grease. Garbage can lids should be kept closed and secured.
- Before storing seasonal clothes, make sure they are clean.
- Drawer and cabinet liners, paper grocery bags, and even wallpaper can be a source of food to pests.
- Carefully check for pests in furniture, boxes, paper, and other items brought into your home.
- Chimneys can be frequented by squirrels, raccoons, and birds; they represent the single largest opening in a typical home. Consider a chimney cap or wire mesh cover.
- Areas where pipes, cables, and wires enter walls should be sealed completely with caulk or steel wool.
- Install 1/4-inch wire mesh (hardware cloth) over attic, roof, and crawl space vents in order to prevent entry of birds, bats, squirrels, rodents, and other wildlife.
- Be sure to wear gloves when cutting and installing hardware cloth, as the wire edges are razor sharp.
- Protect yourself and others from contact with any pesticide.
- Never eat, drink, or smoke while using any pesticide.
