Preparations before the cold weather to avoid intrusions

October 10th, 2022

Winter is approaching fast. This season can be synonymous with both comfort with the fire, but also the possible arrival of unwanted species. Just like us, little critters seek to escape the cold and your home could be the perfect place for pest species to nest until the temperatures warm up. The following article will give you some tips to prevent harmful species from entering and spreading in your home during the winter.

firewood

In homes that use fireplaces or wood stoves, firewood can be a vector for introducing insects indoors. These pests can find refuge in piles of wood or in cracks in logs. Some species such as termites can even infest wooden structures inside your home if they manage to get inside. Shake the pieces of wood to dislodge insects that may have crawled into the wood or on the surface of the wood before entering it inside. If possible, store firewood outdoors or in an outdoor shed and enter only the amount needed for the day.

Be on the lookout for signs of rodent activity

When mercury retrogrades, rodents flee outside. This can increase the risk of them nesting in your home and especially near food sources. Check for feces that are small and shaped like grains of rice. Also watch out for gnawing marks. You may notice that food, food wrappers, and objects like wood or wires have been chewed on. Also watch for the presence of nesting material such as shredded paper or tissues. You might also see or hear rodents moving around your home, usually with quick, stealthy movements. To prevent vermin from finding refuge in your home, be sure to seal all openings smaller than a dime. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as the size of a dime, while rats can fit into holes the size of a quarter. Repair warped door seals or air vents that do not have screens.

Remove all overwintering insects

During sunny winter days, overwintering insects may awaken and become active. These pest species usually congregate near windows or window frames as they attempt to get outside. Vacuum and be sure to dispose of the contents, in a bag, in a closed bin outside the house.

In any case, do not hesitate to contact professionals who will help you protect your home against harmful species during the winter. They can also analyze the situation in your home and provide you with tailored advice to avoid winter infestations.