Buying a home is both an exciting and daunting task. New homeowners tend to have so much on their plate that some tasks will fall by the wayside. However, the first few months of owning a home are critical to starting solid habits that will keep your property in good shape. Taking preventative measures against pests is also vital. Whether you are a new or veteran homeowner, avoid these mistakes to keep pests at bay.
Cracks in the Foundation
Having cracks in the foundation of your house is like a fast-track entry for pests. If you just purchased a home, you should know where the gaps are and be ready to fill them or fix them entirely. If you’ve been living in your house for a while, you may not be aware of cracks in your foundation. Homeowners should stay vigilant about any areas of their foundation that could crack or weaken.
Flooring and Siding Damage
Similar to the foundation, new homeowners may be more aware of flooring and siding damage from having seen it upon move-in and inspections. For homeowners who have lived on their property for a while, you should check for damage frequently and take action when needed. Termites are known for being “silent destroyers” that can cause thousands of dollars in a short amount of time. Don’t make the mistake of letting siding damage go unnoticed; check any other wooden structures (e.g., sheds) on your property.
Second-hand Furniture
Buying furniture from antique or thrift stores is a great way to save money. However, second-hand pieces are at a higher risk of having bugs hidden in the wood or fabric, and many stores receive so many donations daily that they don’t have time to clean or inspect each piece of furniture. You can examine the furniture by wearing a latex glove, running your hand through creases in upholstered furniture, and checking for dead skin of bed bugs. Shining a flashlight on the furniture will also help since bed bugs are challenging to see. If you find any bed bugs, you should take the necessary precautions.
Leaks
Leaks in your home can create a whole host of issues. Aside from mold and water damage, leaks can attract pests like cockroaches or rats who seek out damp areas. Termites and mosquitoes also lay their eggs in moist areas. Even though leaks can be a hassle to fix, homeowners should take action quickly before a small leak becomes an even bigger problem.
Insulation Issues
If you have a newer home, you may have insulation designed to keep pests away. For older homes, any insulation issues like holes, dampness, or matted-down insulation. Many pests like to nest in damaged insulation and can survive for long periods if water is accessible to them. All homeowners should frequently check their houses’ insulation, attic, and crawl spaces.
Take Your Trash Out
Pest prevention can be as simple as keeping up with household chores. Homeowners who do not regularly take their trash and compost bins out can see ants, roaches, and even mice in their homes. Beyond taking the waste out, homeowners should also clean their bins with soap and water or a cleaning solution every few weeks or as needed.
Not Cleaning Kitchen Appliances
Cleaning kitchen appliances and surfaces is another household task that serves as pest prevention. Homeowners should know the importance of cleaning out microwaves, toasters, ovens, countertops, and elsewhere in the kitchen where food particles may be lingering. This also can prevent health risks presented by harmful bacteria, like e. Coli, which pests can spread.
Don’t Wait on Pest Control
If you suspect you have a pest problem or see just a few pests, you should act quickly to rectify the situation. Many homeowners take the “let’s wait and see” method, and then a few individual pests turn into a full-blown infestation. At PestShield, we offer both in-wall and traditional pest control services for the Greater St. Louis Area. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can best serve you and your home!