Your Guide to Preventing Unwanted Pests

Austinites aren't the only ones trying to stay cool during Central Texas hottest months.

Pests, from ants to rodents, are also seeking refuge from Austin's scorching temperatures

While bugs and pests thrive during warmer weather here are some of the best preventative measures you can use to keep your home bug-free. Small openings and cracks are major highways for insects to enter your home. Take a close look at your screens, windows and doors and seal up any cracks or holes you see. Using caulk or adding new weather stripping not only keep helps to keep the pesky bugs out but can benefit your electric bill as well by keeping the cool air inside.

You're not the only one who has been perusing the kitchen more often as you work from home. Pests love an easy food source. One of the easiest ways you can keep pests at bay is by ensuring your kitchen is clean and all food is properly sealed. Storing goods in plastic containers eliminates the scent that draws critters in and regularly cleaning and wiping down surfaces ensures there is no food residue that may seem minuscule to you but is a bonanza for pests.

Along with food, water is a top consideration for pests. Many prefer damp cool spaces and with the soaring temperatures and lack of rain even small amounts of moisture or water can be an oasis. Faucets, drains and pipes should be inspected to insure they are not leaking which could cause other house damage along with attracting bugs and pests. Don’t forget to check the attic for roof leaks or cracks that can be an invitation.

After you’ve scanned the inside of your house take a walk around the exterior. While you want to look for cracks and openings in the usual places don’t forget about larger openings like under a deck or porch that might be a cool living area for larger animals as well. Make sure gutters are working properly so water is running away from your home. It’s also important to make sure external items like tree branches, fire wood, mulch, plants, bushes and even your trash and recycling receptacles are not touching your home as this allows an easy bridge for ants, termites and other pest to access your home.

Generally, the cleaner your home and property are the less attractive it is to pest. Keeping up with mopping, vacuuming, dusting, mowing the lawn and disturbing areas where pest might try to set up camp will assist with stopping any issues before they start. This also gives you the opportunity to inspect areas around your home and spot potential trouble spots before they’ve become a problem. If you’re past the prevention stage there are DIY solutions as well as professionals that can help you get back ahead of the pest to ensure a clean, comfortable home for you and your family to enjoy.

Article by Kyle Morgan

Kyle is the owner of Care Pest Pros.

512.792.9520 | customerservice@carepestpros