Do these 3 Things to Pest Proof Your Home for Fall

For many people, the return of fall brings much joy. The hot days of summer have left us and and there is a crisp chill in the air every morning. From tailgating and watching football to leisure rides to see the beautiful sites of changing leaves or picking the perfect pumpkin from the patch, there are many things to love about this time of year. That is, until you realize that your home is being invaded and you feel like you are starring in a real life horror movie.

Many pests make their way into your home in the fall seeking a warm place to spend the winter. From spiders and cockroaches to ladybugs and stinkbugs as well as rodents, they will happily move in and take up residence with your family. Now is the time to protect your home from unwanted winter guests. Getting your home ready is as easy as 1, 2, 3 when you use this cleaning and inspection checklist:

1. Good housekeeping goes a long way to keep the pests away. Without food and water sources, your home becomes less desirable!

• Wipe up spills immediately
• Sweep daily to keep crumbs and food sources off the floor
• Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink
• Take out the trash daily
• Store food, including pet food, in airtight containers; Do not leave pet food sitting out
• Eliminate areas of clutter inside the home

2. Indoor Inspection

• Look under sinks for water leaks, especially around pipes and water supply lines where they meet the wall
• Eliminate any clogged drains
• Check your toilets for leaks or additional moisture
• Seal any cracks on baseboards, cabinets, pipes, etc. in the home

3. Outdoor Inspection

• Replace any damaged screens on doors and windows
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors
• Screen openings and vents to chimneys
• Seal door and window frames, as well as areas where wires and pipes enter the home; Check for any other cracks and crevices in the outside of the home
• Keep garage door closed when not in use
• Store firewood away from the home and do not bring inside until you are ready to burn it
• Keep shrubbery and tree limbs trimmed away from the home as branches can serve as easy highways for many pests
• Clean gutters
• Eliminate areas of clutter outside your home

Pest Prevention is year-round! Keep up with quarterly pest control treatments or start them now! If you suspect you have a pest infestation, contact our office and let our professional technicians identify and treat your problem! With our two convenient locations, we are able to serve much of Georgia!