A Guide to Helping Prevent Pests from Entering Your Home in Winter

As temperatures drop during the winter months, pests seek warmth and shelter—often finding their way into your home. From rodents to insects, these unwelcome visitors can cause damage and health risks. Taking preventive measures now can save you from dealing with infestations later. Here’s how to keep your home pest-free this winter.

Step 1: Seal Entry Points

Pests often enter through small cracks and gaps.

1. Inspect the Exterior:

   • Check for cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows, and holes in siding.

   • Examine areas where utilities enter your home, such as pipes and vents.

2. Use Caulk and Weatherstripping:

   • Seal small gaps with caulk.

   • Install weatherstripping around doors and windows to block entry points.

3. Install Door Sweeps:

   • Attach door sweeps to the bottom of exterior doors to prevent pests like mice and insects from slipping inside.

Step 2: Maintain a Clean Home

Pests are attracted to food, water, and shelter.

1. Store Food Properly:

   • Keep food in airtight containers.

   • Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, especially in the kitchen.

2. Take Out the Trash:

   • Use a trash can with a tight-fitting lid.

   • Empty garbage frequently to reduce odors that attract pests.

3. Declutter:

   • Remove clutter, such as cardboard boxes and paper piles, where pests like to hide.

Step 3: Control Moisture

Many pests are drawn to damp environments.

1. Fix Leaks:

   • Repair leaking pipes and faucets promptly.

   • Check for water damage or standing water in basements and crawl spaces.

2. Use a Dehumidifier:

   • Maintain low humidity levels, especially in areas like basements, attics, and laundry rooms using a dehumidifier.

3. Clear Gutters:

   • Remove debris from gutters to prevent water buildup near your home’s foundation.

Step 4: Pest-Proof Your Yard

A well-maintained yard can discourage pests from approaching your home.

1. Trim Vegetation:

   • Keep tree branches and shrubs trimmed away from your home’s exterior using a pole pruner for hard to reach branches or a regular pruner for those easy to reach branches.

2. Remove Debris:

   • Clear piles of leaves, firewood, and other debris that can harbor pests.

3. Inspect Outdoor Lights:

   • Use yellow or sodium vapor lights that attract fewer insects.

Step 5: Monitor and Act Early

1. Set Traps and Baits:

   • Place traps in areas where you’ve noticed pest activity.

   • Use baits for specific pests like ants or rodents.

2. Inspect Regularly:

   • Check basements, attics, and other less-frequented areas for signs of pests.

3. Call a Professional:

   • If you notice an infestation, contact a pest control professional for safe and effective treatment.

Step 6: Winter-Specific Tips

1. Firewood Storage:

   • Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and off the ground to avoid attracting termites and ants.

2. Chimney Maintenance:

   • Install a chimney cap to keep rodents and birds out.

   • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.

3. Check Holiday Decorations:

   • Inspect decorations stored in attics or basements for pests before bringing them into your living spaces.

Final Thoughts

Preventing pests during the winter months requires a proactive approach. By sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, controlling moisture, and monitoring your home, you can enjoy a cozy and pest-free winter. Implement these tips today to keep unwelcome visitors out of your home.