Best Ways to Prevent Pest Home Invasions

by Kevin Smith Author

If you’ve ever heard some squeaks in the attic or scurrying little feet in the basement, you know that you’ve likely got some unwanted visitors. Everyone wants to enjoy the comforts of their home. But unfortunately, so do rodents and other pests. Our homes are the perfect setting for mice, rats, raccoons, and other critters when they want to escape cold temperatures.

It can feel unsettling to know that you’re not the only living creatures in your house. And sometimes, even finding where they’re hiding can be challenging. But you can still prepare your home to prevent these intruders from entering. There are some tips to help you maintain peace of mind in stopping these unwanted guests. And for those homeowners trying to prepare their homes for sale, you’ll want to handle any pest invasion issue before hiring residential inspection services in Philadelphia, PA.

Sealing and Security

Start by sealing off entry points to prevent rodents from squeezing through crevices. You may be unaware, but rodents can enter through holes as small as a dime. And any vulnerable opening, from your foundation to your roofline, is susceptible. Scan your home’s perimeter to repair tiny cracks and holes and layer your sealant by stuffing it with metal mesh and sealing it down with caulk. Check for any gaps around conduit pipes, worn-out door sweeps, garage seals, and torn gable screens and roof vents.

You’ll also want to secure food sources to eliminate attraction. Pests will eat anything, will overstay their welcome, and even invite friends to the feast. Sweep up any crumbs and spills immediately. And consider storing food in airtight containers made of this plastic or even metal, including wherever you may keep pet food.

Declutter the Yard

Another smart way to prevent pest infestation is to clear up any clutter in your yard. Homeowners don’t often consider external areas, but stacks of firewood, old tires, or any other debris around your house are excellent places for rodents to hide before discovering a way into your home. Clean out your gutters and dead leaves too, which can deter snakes and earwigs. If applicable, you’ll also want to clean out planters thoroughly to stop spiders from nesting.

While these tips are all great DIY methods, you may also consider calling in the pros. It’s admirable to want to tackle home improvement projects such as these, but not at the risk of potential damage. Wasted time and money isn’t how you want to attempt pest control yourself, while there are companies out there that offer free pest inspections and are certified to do the work necessary.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to pest control specialists before getting residential inspection services in Philadelphia, PA.