Now that chiller weather is descending upon us, certain pests will also be descending upon our homes. The change in season sparks their desire for a warmer place to spend the winter. If we don’t arm our homes with the proper perimeter pest control, we could be battling all sorts of visitors soon.

Common Pest Crew

During the summer months, pests like ants, crickets, spiders, and centipedes may have been content with setting up shop outdoors. However, now that the weather is turning colder they’ll be looking for warmer climates—like our nice warm home.

While they may have been a help in and around the garden, these pests could do more harm than good if they find their way inside. Some of the creepy creatures include:

• Ants (including carpenter ants)
• Boxelder bugs
• Centipedes
• Mites
• Crickets
• Earwigs
• Fleas
• Millipedes
• Silverfish
• Spiders
• Ticks
• Bees
• Rodents

They’re all small enough to find a way in through the smallest cracks, crevices, roof openings, and screen tears. Typically they’re all looking for food and a cozy spot to spend the winter. This could mean a moist, dark corner of your garage or basement or a fully-stocked pantry with chewable food containers.

One of the best ways to help prevent pests from invading your home is to stop them from entering in the first place.

Perimeter Pest Control

Your first line of defense against home invaders is to focus on the outdoors first.

1. Keep your lawn mowed to prevent pests from hiding in tall grass.
2. Prune plants and shrubs to prevent pests from sneaking in undetected.
3. Move wood piles away from the home.
4. Treat the perimeter of your home, focusing on the areas around doors and windows, with a pest control product.

While you’re focusing on doors and windows, be on the lookout for any screen tears or openings that need filling. Once your home is sealed and protected you can turn your attention to cleaning popular indoor pest hiding places, like the kitchen, bathroom, and basement.

Professional Perimeter Control

There are several perimeter pest control products available at your local lawn and garden store. If you find you need backup, you can contact a pest control company to help target certain pests or deal with any that breach the barrier.

Not only will perimeter pest control help prevent bugs and rodents from entering your house, but it will help keep your home clean and your family healthy from the diseases these pests may bring with them. The right perimeter control plan may also protect your landscape from infestation.

This plan will depend on the area you live in and the type of pests you want to prevent. Contact Cardinal Pest to help develop a plan that protects your home indoors and out.