Spring has finally sprung here in Michigan. Is your home ready for the onset of Nature waking up from its slumber. It is said that April showers bring May flowers. But what else does it bring?
Have you been noticing ants in your kitchen? Or have you heard scratching in your walls? Here is a few helpful tips that you can do yourself to prevent the invasion of pests this spring and summer.
Outside Prevention:
- Do not allow food,trash,decaying wood, etc. to accumulate in or on your property.
- Cover or seal trash tightly.
- Cut back limbs,shrubs,and vines that touch or overhang your property.
- Stack firewood off the ground.
- “Weatherize” your home. Seal all possible pest entry points.
- Close all gaps larger than 1.4 inch.
- Check for and remove structural damage such as moisture damaged wood. Water damage can cause weak spots in the roof. Animals may enter through the weakened area. Repair damaged windows and screens.
- Look for holes where roofs overlap.
- Keep gutters clear.
- Chimneys are frequented by squirrels, raccoons, and birds, they represent the single largest opening in a typical home. Consider chimney caps or a wire mesh to cover.
- Install 1/4-inch wire mesh (hardware cloth) over attic, roof, and crawl space vents in order to prevent entry of birds, bats, squirrels, rodents, and other wildlife.
Inside Prevention:
- Before storing end-of-season clothes,make sure they are clean.
- Drawer and cabinet liners, paper grocery bags, and even wallpaper can be a source of food to pests.
- Carefully check for pests in furniture, boxes, paper, and other items before bringing into your home.
- Areas where pipes, cables, and wires enter walls and soffits should be sealed completely.
- Keep all areas where food is prepared, stored, and served clean and free of crumbs and grease. Garbage can lids should be kept closed and secured
- Shuffle stored items regularly and keep boxes tightly sealed in plastic bags.
- Check Storage area for rodents.
Call Sergio’s today for more information on helpful tips and prevention, or to schedule an appointment with one of our technicians. (248) 932-0018!