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November 13, 2024
As the chill of fall sets in and the first snowfall looms, Maine homeowners know it's time to start getting their homes ready for winter. Between stacking firewood, cleaning the furnace, and digging out the winter clothes, there's a lot to do in a short time. However, as you batten the hatches, remember the sneaky pests looking to make your home their winter retreat.
Winter brings its challenges regarding home maintenance, especially with insects and rodents seeking warmth and shelter indoors. Whether you're focused on the final yard work or setting up for cozy nights by the fire, it's crucial to take extra precautions to avoid unwelcome houseguests over the winter.
How to prevent mice and other winter pests
Here’s how you can prepare your home to prevent winter pests from making themselves comfortable:
Seal potential entry points
Mice and rats are notorious for sneaking into homes during the colder months. They’re on the lookout for any cracks or gaps on the outside of the house that will provide entry and escape from harsh winter weather. Begin by inspecting your home’s exterior for potential entry points. Look around windows, doors, and screens for any gaps or tears. Even tiny cracks can provide an easy entryway for pests. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal these areas, especially around door frames and windowsills.
Remember utility entrances and vents; these can be vulnerable spots for rodents and insects to squeeze through. Check for any gaps around where pipes or wires enter your house and ensure that vent covers and chimney caps are secure. If your home has damaged siding or roofing, now’s the time to make those repairs before the first big storm hits.
Tidy up the yard
A well-maintained yard not only looks good but also helps keep pests away. Clean up leaves, branches, and other debris that can provide shelter and food for rodents and insects. Storing firewood away from the house is essential—piles of wood are the perfect hiding places for critters like mice and spiders. Also, avoid keeping firewood in your garage, as this can invite pests into your living space.
Bird feeders may seem harmless, but they can attract more than just birds. Some pests are also drawn to the seeds, so it’s best to take them down for the season.
Clean gutters to prevent ice dams
Clogged gutters can lead to various problems, including water damage, foundation issues, and the formation of ice dams. When leaves, twigs, and other debris build up in gutters, they block the flow of water, causing overflow and ice to develop when temperatures drop. Ice can create dams that force water back up under the roof's shingles, leading to leaks and potential structural damage and providing entry to opportunistic rodents and insects. Remove debris in your gutters, focus on proper drainage, and ensure water diverts from your foundation.
Eliminate moisture inside
Moisture is a significant draw for pests, especially rodents and insects. Fix leaky pipes, repair damaged wood, and clean up any water accumulation in your home. If you live in a humid area, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in basements or crawl spaces, prime spots for pests to thrive. A dry home is less inviting to pests like silverfish and cockroaches.
Pest-proof the kitchen
Mice and other rodents are always searching for food; your kitchen is a prime target. Keep your kitchen as clean and clutter-free as possible. Sweep floors regularly, store food in airtight plastic containers, and avoid leaving dishes in the sink overnight. Be sure to clean inside cabinets and counters regularly to remove crumbs and spills that might attract pests.
Beware of other winter pests
While rodents are Maine's most common winter pests, you're not off the hook just because the temperature drops. Other insects like boxelder bugs, ladybugs, and stink bugs often seek shelter inside homes to escape the cold. These pests are not dangerous but can be a nuisance as they find their way into your home. Sealing entry points and keeping your home tidy is key to keeping them at bay.
Sign up for home pest control and let our team keep bugs and rodents out
Even with all these precautions, pests can sometimes sneak in. If you find yourself dealing with an infestation, don’t wait until it gets worse. Contact a professional pest control company like Pine State Pest Solutions for assistance. Based in Auburn and serving Androscoggin, Kennebec, Sagadahoc, Cumberland, Oxford, and York counties, our year-round home pest control plans offer property owners the best protection against infestations.
If you’ve already found mice or other pests sneaking inside this fall or want to ensure insects and rodents don’t have the chance, we are the local exterminating company to call!
This blog was originally published on October 20, 2016; it has been updated to include the most relevant information.
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