Winter has arrived, and as you prepare your home for the colder months, it’s equally important to consider the unwelcome visitors that may seek shelter this season. Rodents, insects, and other pests are professionals at escaping the cold and finding their way indoors, with your garage and attic being prime entry points. So, keep reading for tips and tricks to pest-proofing your home this winter.
Why Winter Is Peak Season for Infestations
As temperatures drop, pests like rodents, spiders, and even insects start to search for warmth and food. Garages and attics become prime real estate for pests as they are quiet and often less inspected and harder to seal properly. Mice are notorious for squeezing through the tiniest openings, while squirrels can chew their way in through vents. Once these rodents get inside, they start to hunt for food and build nests.
Essential Tips for Inspecting Your Garage And Attic
It is essential to perform a thorough inspection of your garage and attic to identify potential entry points and areas that might need attention. Begin by checking for cracks, gaps, and holes in the wall, doors, and windows. Even small openings can give rodents and insects an easy way in. Be sure to examine areas where utilities enter your home, like pipes and cables. To spot an existing infestation, look for signs of droppings, chewed wires, shredded insulation. If you spot any of these, it is time to take immediate action by contacting a pest control company, like Tactical Pest Services!
Stop Pests At The Door: Seal And Secure Entry Points
Once you have identified potential entry points, sealing them is very important to block off any pests or rodents from entering your home. Here are some effective ways to close up gaps and cracks:
- Door Seals: Check the weatherstripping around garage and external doors, and if it is worn or cracked, it’s time to replace it with new material. You can also install a door sweep along the bottom to seal any gaps.
- Windows and Vents: After inspecting all windows and vents in your attic and garage, if you have any cracks or openings, seal them with caulk or expandable foam. For attic vents, consider installing a fine mesh screen to keep out smaller rodents.
- Wall Cracks and Gaps: Rodents can squeeze through very small openings, so fill in any small cracks or holes in the ceiling with steel wool or caulk.
A Clean Home Is A Pest-Free Home
Clutter in your garage or attic offers pests both shelter and food, making these areas more inviting. An organized space not only maximizes functionality but also deters unwanted critters. Set aside time to clean and declutter your garage and attic. Store boxes off the floor on shelves or pallets to make it harder for rodents to nest in your belongings. Sweep dust, dirt, and any food crumbs because pests, especially ants, are always on the lookout for food. If you store pet food, or other food products in the garage, make sure they are sealed in air tight containers. Pests can smell food from a distance and be drawn to entering your space. Lastly, check for nest materials, if you have old newspapers, rags, or other soft materials, check them regularly for signs of rodent nesting.
Stay Ahead Of Pests During Winter
In addition to sealing entry points and organizing your space, there are many preventative steps you can take to discourage pests from entering your attic or garage. Natural repellents can be highly effective, mice and rats dislike strong scents like peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus. Soaking cotton balls in peppermint and placing them near potential entry points can help deter them from entering. In addition, installing motion-activated lights in both your garage and attic can make your space less appealing and more intimidating for pests that are looking for a dark and quiet space to nest. Another important preventative step is to maintain your attic insulation. Pests seek warmth of attic insulation during the winter. If the insulation is old or damaged, consider replacing it with newer and more durable insulation.
Pest Invasion? What To Do Next To Take Back Control
If you have taken any of these proactive steps, but pests are still finding their way in, Here is what you can do:
- Identify the Pest: Different pests require different treatment methods. Rodents and insects have different signs like droppings, nests or chewed up items that can provide clues. Find out which pest is invading your home by using Tactical’s Pest Identifier.
- Treat for Rodents: If you notice signs of rodent activity, such as droppings or hear them up in the attic, set humane traps, check them regularly, and relocate trapped animals far from your home.
- Treat for Insects: For Insects in your home, you can use insecticides or hire a professional to treat the area. Be sure to follow all safety instructions when using strong chemicals, especially in non-conditioned spaces like your attic or garage.
- Call in the Pros: For large or stubborn infestations, or if you don’t have the expertise, it is best to call a professional pest control service, like Tactical Pest Services, we can safely and effectively eliminate pests and prevent future infestations!
Pest-Proof Your Garage and Attic With Tactical Pest Services!
When dealing with a pest infestation in your garage or attic, the best course of action is to bring in the experts. At Tactical Pest Services, we specialize in providing effective and friendly pest control solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with rodents, insects, or any other pests, our experienced team of 10+ years will eliminate pests and help prevent future infestations. Contact Tactical Pest Services today and take the first step toward a pest-free home this winter!
