People in Sheridan experience a combination of warm summers and chilly winters. This makes the city a perfect spot for different types of pests to try and make their way into your home. Thankfully, you can fight back and prevent these unwanted visitors from getting in. You can take steps to close possible entry points for pests, especially with some assistance from pest control experts at saelapest.com .But you need to know how pests are getting in first.
Cracks and Gaps Around Doors and Windows
Even the tiniest crack or gaps in doors and windows can be an open invitation to ants, spiders, and mice. Over time, weather stripping wears down, and frames may shift slightly, leaving small gaps that are hard to see but easy for pests to crawl through.
Check around your doors and windows to see if light peeks through or drafts come in as they mean a gap. Replacing old weather stripping and using caulk around window frames can seal off this gap. Also, you can install door sweeps at the base of exterior doors for extra protection.
Vents and Chimneys
Birds, bats, and squirrels can find their way in through chimneys. Smaller insects and rodents may come in through bathroom or dryer vents.
You can seal off these entry points by installing vent covers and chimney caps. These simple mesh or metal grates allow air to pass through but keep pests out. Just make sure to clean them out regularly, especially during fall and winter, when animals are more likely to seek shelter.
Gaps in the Foundation
Your home’s foundation may seem solid, but small cracks can form over time. These cracks might not be a big deal structurally, but they are like an open door for ants, centipedes, and mice. Walk around your home and inspect the foundation for visible cracks or holes. Seal them up with a concrete patch or silicone-based caulk.
Roof and Attic Openings
Loose shingles, damaged soffits, and openings around the eaves can allow pests to get inside. These unwelcome guests can do a lot of damage before you know they are there.
Addressing these openings includes inspecting your roof once or twice a year, especially after strong winds or storms. Consider hiring a professional if you are not comfortable getting up there. Also, check your attic regularly for signs of nesting or droppings. Seal any holes with hardware cloth or heavy-duty sealant.
Plumbing and Utility Lines
There is usually a small gap where water lines, gas pipes, or electrical wires enter your home. Unfortunately, pests are great at finding these openings. Cockroaches and rodents can squeeze through small openings to get inside. Take a look at areas under sinks, behind appliances, and in the basement or crawl space. Use expanding foam or caulk to seal around pipes and wires.
Garage Doors
Garage doors usually do not close tightly, especially older ones. Also, a garage is usually full of dark, quiet corners, making them perfect hiding spots for bugs and rodents. Make sure your garage door closes flush with the ground. Consider adding or replacing the rubber seal at the bottom if there is a gap. Keep the area tidy and avoid storing pet food or birdseed in the garage, which can attract hungry critters.
Landscaping Touching the House
Branches that touch the siding or roof can give ants, spiders, and other bugs an easy way in. Plus, thick vegetation near the foundation creates cool, moist hiding places. Trim back bushes, trees, and plants so they are at least a foot away from your home. Keep mulch and soil from building up too high near the foundation. You will make your yard look better and keep the pests guessing.
