Professional Tips for Keeping Your Home Pest-Free During Winter

 Expert Tips for Keeping Preventing Pests in the Winter in CT

One of the most important steps to keeping pests out is sealing any entry points they could use to get inside. Small cracks and gaps in your doors, windows, and foundations are prime areas for pests to sneak through. Make sure that:

• Window and door screens are sealed and free of holes.
• Any cracks around door frames, window sills, and foundations are properly sealed with caulk.
• Weatherstripping around doors is in good condition and forms a tight seal.

Fallen leaves around your home can be more than just a yard maintenance issue; they create ideal hiding and nesting spots for pests like ants and rodents. It's common for people to put off leaf removal until spring, but this can lead to a build-up of debris where pests thrive. To avoid this:

• Rake up leaves and clear debris from around your home regularly.
• Pay special attention to areas close to the house where pests are more likely to nest.
• Keep shrubs and vegetation trimmed back, especially near foundations and windows.

If you heat your home with a wood-burning stove or fireplace, you likely store firewood outside for convenience. However, firewood stacked too close to your house can attract pests like rodents and ants. These pests nest in the dry wood and use it as a shelter. To minimize the risk:

• Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home.
• Elevate the firewood on skids or a platform to prevent it from sitting directly on the ground.
• Cover firewood with a tarp to protect it from moisture and pests.

Clutter inside your home can also attract pests. Rodents, in particular, seek out quiet, undisturbed areas like basements, attics, or cluttered garages to build their nests. Be proactive by:

• Regularly cleaning and organizing storage areas.
• Avoiding piles of newspapers, cardboard boxes, or unused items that can provide shelter for pests.
• Storing food in sealed containers and cleaning up crumbs and spills immediately.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, pests still manage to find their way inside. If you're dealing with an infestation or just want expert help, contacting a professional pest control service can ensure your home stays pest-free. ProSource Pest Solutions specializes in winter pest control and can help you implement a comprehensive prevention plan.