Many people work from home these days since their companies wanted to ensure they remain safe from the virus. As people spend more time at home, they may notice some improvements they need to work on. This resulted in an increase in home improvement projects during the pandemic.
But others notice the presence of pests that can damage the property and affect their health unless they get rid of them. They can hire professionals to control the mosquitos, rats, ants, and other pests in the house. But homeowners should also make sure these pests do not invade their homes again. Here are some ways homeowners can make sure their homes remain pest-free.
Cleanup Regularly
To ensure the home does not attract pests after the professionals get rid of the pests, homeowners should clean the house regularly. The presence of spilled food and clutter can attract these pests into the home. Unclean environments are normally appealing to rodents, ants, and other pests.
Due to this, homeowners should eliminate the clutter, dust, and contaminants. They should also mop the floors with disinfectants, which can also protect them from the virus causing the current pandemic.
Fix the Windows
To prevent mosquitoes, cockroaches, spiders, and houseflies from entering the house, homeowners should make sure to fix any broken windows. This means they should replace any broken glass or window panes to ensure these pests cannot enter the house.
If the house uses window screens, the homeowner should check them for any tears or holes they should fix to keep pests out. Some homes use window screens to enhance ventilation while keeping unwanted insects out.
Remove Damp Areas
Many pests live in damp and dirty areas in the house. These insects, like cockroaches and mosquitoes, take shelter in warm and humid environments. To prevent these pests from staying in and around the house, homeowners should regularly check the home and make sure all the areas are dry. This is particularly true in the bathroom, kitchen, and garage. They should keep these areas well ventilated so it will stop any damp sport from forming.
Declutter the House
Another effective way of controlling pests in the house is to declutter the house. Homeowners should dispose of empty boxes and toys that their children have outgrown. Aside from gathering dust in the attic or storeroom, these items become hiding places for different types of pests.
Homeowners should also sell or dispose of other items that have remained unused for years. These items include shoes, worn-out luggage, plastic bags, old newspapers, and empty bottles.
Keep the Yard Clean
Homeowners already know the importance of keeping the interior of the house free of garbage, especially the kitchen. But they should also be aware of keeping the yard clean and free of garbage. The trash cans in the yard can attract pests looking for food or a place to put their nest.
In this situation, the homeowner should ensure that the trash cans in the yard have air-tight lids. They should also empty the trash cans as well as clean them regularly.
Additionally, homeowners should check the yard, patio, and decks to ensure they are free of plant clippings and fallen leaves. They should also check the garage and clean them regularly. When these places are dirty, they will end up attracting pests and other critters.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Aside from the windows and doors, insects and pests can also enter the home through cracks, crevices, and gaps in the house. With this, the homeowner should go around the house and look for these holes in the wall to prevent pests from entering the home.
Homeowners should also check cracks in the foundation, loose sidings, and missing shingles on the roof. They can also check the gaps on the utility lines of the home, including water pipes, electric cables, and cable wiring. Once they find these holes, they should seal them using copper mesh, sheet metal, or mortar. If they use expanding caulk, many insects and pests can chew on them until they make a big enough hole for them to enter the house.
Store Food Properly
Since pests have a heightened sense of smell, homeowners should make sure to store food inside sealed containers. They can keep crackers or cereals inside resealable bags. They should also clean the pantry immediately when food spills. Removing spoiled food also reduces the sources of attraction for any unwanted pests.
Ensuring that the home is pest-free is easy as long as homeowners know what to do. They should also take the necessary steps to keep pests away.
