There’s nothing more relaxing than cozying up at home during the winter months, but a pest problem in your house could lead to stress for you and your family. Avoid the stress of pests taking refuge from cold weather in your home by preparing for the falling temperatures. Consider the following pest control tips to keep your home safe and secure this winter.

3 Ways to Pest-Proof Your Home Before Winter

1. Sealing Cracks and Holes

It’s easy to overlook cracks and holes around the exterior and interior of your house. Still, these little areas are critical places that pests, including ants, cockroaches, mice, and other animals, can sneak into your home. Homeowners should walk through their homes to survey any damages or holes that need to be repaired or covered. These issues can be fixed with caulk filling for cracks and metal sheets to cover areas of broken siding. If you’re unsure how to determine if animals or insects are gaining entry through a crack or a hole, hire a pest control professional.

2. Storing Firewood Properly

A crackling fire is great for ambiance, but it could cause a pest control issue in your house this winter if you’re not careful. Homeowners should store their firewood at least 20 feet from their home since ants and other pests can make their nests in the wood. If the wood is then brought into your home for the fireplace, they will easily cause issues throughout your home. Professionals also recommend installing a screened vent on the chimney to keep animals out of the shoot. The fireplace is a crucial entryway for pests of all kinds during the winter.

3. Inspecting Leaky Pipes

Leaky pipes and clogged drains occur year-round, but they can occur even more frequently in the winter as pipes begin to freeze. If you notice a leak in your house or moisture in your basement, you should take care of the problem immediately. Moisture, leaky pipes, and standing water can attract cockroaches in your home. Cockroaches are attracted to the water or moisture in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens because they create a source of water and food for them.

If you think you have a pest control problem or you want to prepare your house for the winter season, reach out to the trusted professionals at Collins Exterminating in Bolivar, MO. This local business always provides guaranteed results for your pest control problems, and they offer 24/7 emergency service. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the full range of services they offer, Call (417) 326-2124 today or visit them online.