Author: Kurt Treftz, Cascade Pest Control
A rodent or pest infestation is many homeowners’ worst nightmare, and rightfully so—the most effective way to eliminate an infestation or remove a pesky critter is to enlist the help of professional pest control services.
However, taking pest prevention measures, both inside and outside your home or structure, can save you time, money, and stress. Even if you have suffered an infestation before, your pest control process should include prevention, so you can avoid a reoccurring incident in the future.
Exterior Pest Prevention Techniques
Many pest control defenses begin by ensuring the critters can’t enter your home in the first place.
Cracks, Gaps, Holes, Utility Openings
Inspect and seal any cracks or holes in your house’s siding or roof to help prevent anything from being able to sneak in. This includes examining pipe and utility seals / openings, which you should cover with a wire mesh or plastic shield. Steel wool, copper mesh, or a lasting foam / caulk are good, durable materials to plug gaps and holes with to keep away anything from termites and cockroaches to mice and rats.
Trees, Shrubs, Foliage
While you may not immediately think of it, the foliage you keep around your house can also be an easy way for invasive critters to gain access to your home. Make sure you’re keeping tree limbs, climbing ivy, and large shrubs trimmed back, and ideally a safe distance away from your house or structure. Many pests and rodents are adept at climbing and jumping, so if you have these larger flora growing too close, the pests have easy access to your roof to be able to get in from above.
Stagnant or Standing Water, Moisture
It is also helpful to reduce any sources of excess moisture. Termites and other pesky bugs can be attracted to and thrive better in humid, damp spaces. In this respect, checking leaks, basements, plumbing seals and exterior foundations for water can go a long way in making your home the least attractive target for pests. In addition, as nice as those bird baths are in your yard, the stagnant, standing water can be a source for menacing pests!
Interior Preventative Pest Control Measures
The other half of preventative pest control is making sure the inside of your home makes it as hard as possible for any persevering pests to survive. The main components of that are cutting off their food supply and making sure they are unable to nest.
Clean and Reduce Clutter
These top concerns can be addressed and managed mainly by regularly cleaning your home and reducing clutter. Particularly in the kitchen, making sure open food is stored safely in airtight containers and no crumbs or debris are left behind, significantly decreases the likelihood of pests such as ants or cockroaches. Cleaning trash receptacles and ensuring they have a tight, well-fitting lid is also key.
Attics and Crawl Spaces
Reducing clutter in attics, crawlspaces, or basements gives fewer places for unwelcome guests to hide out and nest. It also increases visibility, and can make it easier to spot warning signs of an infestation. Regularly discarding recycling materials and properly storing wool and natural fibers is key to fending off moths, and carpet beetles.
Cascade Pest Control—Your Pest Prevention Partner
For forty years, Cascade has been professionally providing quality rodent and pest control services to the Seattle and Puget Sound area. Our extensive field knowledge and certified technicians are both well-equipped and eager to help you create a pest or rodent control process that works best for you. From inspections to exterminations, Cascade has you covered.
Call 888-989-8979 today to get started with Cascade Pest Control!
