5 DIY Pest Control Tips

Every year, warmer temperatures mark the arrival of pesky insects. These pests persistently search for ways to sneak in your home through the tiniest of cracks and crevices. The yearly bug battle isn’t easy, but taking some proactive steps can make your home a bug-free zone this spring and summer.

Prevent Standing Water

No matter how big or small, any water source near a home will attract pests. Assessing and addressing any leaks around your home’s exterior will keep their numbers down. Leaks can lead to moist wood which can be tunneled through by ants, termites, and even rodents, so it’s important to clean your gutters regularly and keep an eye out for any roof leaks. Reducing standing water in your yard and in plant containers will also prevent mosquitoes and harmful micro-organisms from reproducing.

Keep Food Where It Belongs

Properly storing food inside is a common way to prevent insect issues, but keeping food where it belongs outside is just as important. Common food sources found outside like trash, bird seed, pet food, and fruits and vegetables from your garden will attract insects to your home. Some handy tips to follow are to hang bird feeders at least 100 feet away from your house, store your pet food indoors, and keep your trash secured outside in a closed container. To keep your garden safe, you can consider adding fencing or netting around the perimeter.

Tidy Up the Yard

Yard debris, such as leaves and sticks, can attract a variety of unwanted insects, especially the kind that bite and sting. If left unchecked, this debris provides an ideal spot for these creatures to live. Keep your yard clean, and pay close attention to the areas under decks, porches, near basements, and behind shutters.

Seal Your Home

Any open cracks or gaps in the foundation of your home are entrances for pests. Make a point to check around your home regularly for any cracks, and fill these gaps with compound cement or caulk. Focus also on any interior crevices in addition to the exterior of your home.

These DIY tips will build a strong home defense plan against pests, in addition to having a plan to spray regularly around the perimeter of your home. Spraying insecticide and repellant creates a line of defense that will help keep the invasive pests away, especially ants, stink bugs, and bed bugs. Not comfortable with handling insecticide or prefer the newer green pest control solutions? Find a local pest control expert to do this for you! Local bug and pest experts are very knowledgeable about controlling pests common in your area, and they can set up a budget-friendly plan to regularly treat your home.