Seven Tips to Prevent Insects this Fall!

By: MasterTech Pest Control Last Updated: September 27, 2011

As the weather gets cooler in Northwest Indiana insects and rodents start to look for warm places to spend their winter. Many homeowners can attest that all too often these pests will find their way into homes. So it’s a good idea to take preventative measures in advance to discourage pests from entering your home in the first place.

  1. Seal any openings around your home. Utility openings where wiring or pipes come into to your home are common entry points, as well as areas around gas meters, dryer vents and outdoor facets. You can use caulk, expandable foam, copper mesh or even cement to seal up any of these areas.
  2. Seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors. Use weather-stripping or caulk to seal cracks and gaps around windows and doors. 1/4 inch openings are big enough to allow mice access into homes.
  3. Examine window and door screens for rips and holes. If any rips or holes are found, they should either be mended or the screens should be replaced entirely.
  4. Evaluate woodpiles. Many of us will turn to the warmth of fireplaces as the evenings get cooler. Keep in mind that insects and other creatures may burrow into the wood to feed, while others make nests in woodpiles for shelter. It is best to keep your firewood elevated and away from your home. Before you bring wood inside, be sure to knock the logs together in order to shake off clinging insects.
  5. Evaluate bushes and trees. Is the exterior of your home inviting to pests? It’s just a short leap for them to move from the nearest shrub, tree or leaf pile to your front door, so keeping those trimmed and away from the immediate areas around your home can help eliminate the insects that may be attracted to the inside of your home.
  6. Keep garage doors closed. An open garage door is big invitation to rodents looking for a warm place to stay.  Homes near a cornfield may have bigger issues as farmers continue to cut the crop it will send mice running for cover. Be sure to mouse proof your garage early in the season before an infestation can start and keep the garage door closed whenever possible.
  7. Keep bird seed in a sealed container. Rodents are looking for food as the cooler weather sets in.  Do not allow rodents access to bird seed, grass seed, corn etc…that you store in your garage or shed.  Put these items in a sealed container so they are not food sources for unwelcome visitors.

Fall is the season pests will appear more frequently in and around the house. These tips give homeowners a head start on preventing infestations.  If insects or rodents are still an issue this fall MasterTech Pest Control can help.  Call 219-476-7007 or visit www.ihavebugs.com for service needs.