Don’t Fall For This

Fall is finally here! With it comes fresh air, leaves that change color, plus it’s guaranteed that the pests are on the move. While the first two are always welcomed, the last one we could certainly do without! Many people fall into the trap of thinking the cooler weather will stop, or at least slow down the influx of pests. NOT SO. 

This time of year the critters are gearing up to find food and shelter for the upcoming winter months. This is NOT the time to let your guard down when it comes to pest control. The good news is – there are ways to protect your home and your family from these fall intruders.

WHAT PESTS INVADE HOMES IN THE FALL?

This is, by no means, a comprehensive list, but these are definitely on the repeat offender list: 

• Skunks
• Woodchucks
• Rodents
• Spiders
• Ants
• Fleas
• Ladybugs
• Wasps
• Termites
• Centipedes
• Earwigs
• Roaches and more!

When cooler weather hits, these pests would prefer to be tucked in your house where it’s warm and cozy. Some get into food and crawl over dishes, creating unexplainable health issues for your family. Some chew on your home and create structural issues that cost thousands to fix. Some bite you while you’re sleeping. 

TIPS FOR CONTROLLING FALL PESTS

The best way to keep pests out of your home is to make them feel unwanted. They are looking for moist dark places with food and water sources nearby. They want some rotted wood or leftover crumbs that are left on the countertops or floors to chew on, and someplace nice and warm, protected from the outside elements. Don’t let them find what they’re looking for! The goal is to make your home comfortable for you, but uncomfortable for bugs.

• Keep inside and outside trash in bags, and in sealed containers. This is a food source and a breeding site for pests.
• Don’t leave pet food out. Feed your pets intentionally, then secure the food in a sealed container.
• Keep things clean and uncluttered.
• Replace outside lights with yellow insect-resistant lighting.
• Keep shades closed at night. Light attracts flying insects, and spiders think flying insects are scrumptious.
• If you have dryer exhaust being pumped under your deck, patio, or staircase, channel it out into the open air, so mammals won’t find a nice heated place to nest.
• Check all your screens, door sweeps, and weather stripping, to make sure everything is in good working order.
• Use a caulking gun to seal up holes and cracks in your foundation and exterior walls.

In addition to these DIY tips, the BEST solution is to hire the professionals at Hopper Termite & Pest. We’ve been in the business over 60 years and know a thing or two when it comes to preventing fall pests from setting up shop inside your home. We not only have the experience, but we have a pest control plan that is sure to fit your budget. 

So, next time anyone tries to tell you that you can relax during the fall, winter and spring months when it comes to pest control, don’t fall for that one. Nothing could be further from the truth! Give us a call today and see the difference Hopper can make when it comes to pest control in your home this fall!