During the summer it seems we tolerate a lot of pests. We put up with mosquitoes biting us in the evening, ants invading our summer fun, stinging insects building nests around our property, having to do tick checks after being outside, and keeping rodents and wildlife out of our trash.
Once fall sets in, you would think we'd get a break! Unfortunately, many pests take their activities indoors when the cooler weather of fall arrives. There are some preventative measures you can take to keep pests out of your South Carolina home this fall. If you find that it's too late, the experts at Aiken Pest Control can help.
Pest Behavior In Cool Weather
Many pests go dormant or die off during the colder months. Others can live happily outdoors all year. And then there are the pests that seek shelter indoors and attempt to overwinter inside your house. Your home can provide moisture, warmth, food, and shelter—everything a pest needs to survive once it gets cold out.
Which Pests Prefer The Indoors
The most common pests that attempt to come indoors in the cooler weather are rodents, spiders, cockroaches, and wildlife like raccoons. Of course, you are always prone to termites and bed bugs that remain active year-round.
Prevention Steps To Keep Pests Out
A professional year-round pest control protection plan is one of the best ways to keep pests out, no matter the season. Additionally, in the fall, you can take some steps on your own to help reduce the risk of an infestation:
- Use door sweeps on all doors, including the garage.
- Remove trash regularly and keep it stored in sealed containers outdoors.
- Inspect the foundation of your home and repair any small cracks or holes.
- Check the roofline and cut back overhanging branches and repair holes in soffits.
- Install vent screens on all vents and chimney caps.
- Keep torn window screens repaired and caulk or seal around the edges of windows.
- Reduce clutter and excess storage boxes inside your attic, basement, and garage.
- Store all food in airtight containers and don’t feed pets outdoors or leave pet food out.
If You Have Pests Indoors
If you’ve discovered that pests have already found their way into your home this fall, you can contact Aiken Pest Control for help. We will inspect your house and help you with remediation and the elimination of all pests—from raccoons in the attic to spiders in your corners.