How To Avoid Spring Pests In Your Home This Year
Spring is here once again, and while that means gorgeous warm weather once again, it also means all those dreaded bugs will come crawling back. Recent figures indicate that there are more than 200 million insects for each human on the planet, and most bug species thrive in warmer weather. Springtime bugs and pests can cause a variety of problems for your home and your family if left unchecked. Even landscaping decisions can increase the number of pests that can invade your home. Remove any soil or mulch that is within 3 inches of any wood siding. Otherwise, you give termites and carpenter ants a bridge into the house for a feast. Carpenter ants can destroy a home’s structure, so if you notice an abnormal amount of ants around your home, contact an ant removal service to inspect your property thoroughly. Professionals know how to remove ant colonies safely. Additionally, take these steps to protect your home and family from ants and other irritating pests this summer.
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Seal Your Home Tight
One of the easiest ways to deal with bugs and other pests is to keep them out of your home in the first place. Most pests get into your home through windows and doors that either get left open in the warmer weather or don’t shut properly. Look for products that can help you fully seal the gap under your door to avoid bugs crawling in, and if you have older windows, replacing them can prevent pests. If your windows are more than 15 years old, they may stick and not shut properly, which can let more bugs in.
Stop Any Standing Water
Ever notice how certain types of bugs, like mosquitos and gnats, tend to gather near puddles, creeks, or other types of standing water? That’s because stagnant water can actually become breeding grounds for many types of insects and microorganisms. Keep an eye on any leaks and call a plumber to deal with any standing water issues in your home. This will keep your home well-maintained while also limiting pest problems.
Watch Out For Sweet Smells
Many pests entering your home or hanging out near your drink aren’t looking to specifically bother you, they’re looking for food. Many insects are drawn to sweeter scents that they think are signs of a next meal, even if they’re just smelling your perfume. Be aware of what scents you use for yourself and near your home; bugs are drawn to sweeter scents more than others, so you might accidentally be luring them to your doorstep if you aren’t careful.
Use Pesticides, But Carefully
While it can be tempting to go heavy on the bug spray and pesticides in spring and summer, be careful about which ones you’re using. Not all bug repellents are particularly safe, and some can be seriously damaging to the environment as well. Why? Many pesticides harm beneficial bugs as well as pests, and that can be problematic for helpful bugs whose habitats are in danger, like bees. Bees are pollinators and are responsible for cross-pollination, which helps at least 30% of crops and 90% of wild plants thrive. Not being careful with your bug repellent choices can accidentally harm these helpful critters.
Spring can be a bothersome time when it comes to dealing with bugs and other pests, but these easy tips can keep them out of your home and away from you and your family. Have you pest-proofed your home for the warmer months of the year yet?
