For most individuals, the transition into spring does not come fast enough, especially after the cold days of winter. It is no secret that the onset of spring also brings about the need for homeowners to air out their homes and start their spring cleaning. After months of keeping doors and windows closed up to avoid the cold, homeowners are now eager to let the fresh air in and enjoy all that spring has to offer.
Unfortunately, this time of the year may also let more than just the fresh air in. Pests that have been laying low (hibernating and, in some cases, overwintering) over the winter season are making themselves known during these spring months as the warm temperatures are more conducive to an increase in pest activity. For pests such as ants, rodents, termites, spiders, mosquitoes and more, spring is the optimal time to reproduce, establish new colonies and forage for new food.
Signs of possible infestations may have gone unnoticed over the winter season only to resurface as the weather warms up, which is why Truly Nolen outlines common best practices and preventative measures that most consumers can employ to keep their homes relatively pest-free. Homeowners are encouraged to make a checklist and keep a close eye out both on the interior and exterior of their homes to eliminate opportunities for pests to invade.
The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recently released a forecast for pest activity during the spring and summer months. Named the Bug Barometer, it provides an interesting insight into what we can expect as a result of winter weather patterns throughout the country and when specific pest activity will take shape. What does this bug barometer actually do? Specifically, the NPMAs Bug Barometer is the result of research conducted by expert entomologists, who analyzed winter weather reports and patterns from across the country to determine the pest pressure index each region will experience this spring. (Source: pestworld.org)
As the warmer weather continues, the NPMA also predicts that the combination of rain and high humidity could result in a drastic increase in pests such as mosquitoes and ants.
Although calling your Truly Nolen pest professional is recommended for thorough inspection and treatment of your home, there are some simple tips that residents can follow to keep your home pest-free. Here, we take a closer look at defined areas in the home.
Higher levels of dampness and humidity are characteristic of most basements. Notorious for housing unwanted pests, this lower-level structure in your home is the perfect hiding spot for pests who are prone to moisture, such as roaches, silverfish and rodents.
Unfortunately, many basements represent a significant amount of storage space for the home, and piles of clutter can often be neglected for extended periods of time.
Attics and crawl spaces are also prone to moisture and, if not checked regularly, provide the ideal habitat for pests such as rodents, roaches and termites.
Wooden porches and decks are characteristic of many homes and provide a great area to enjoy the outdoors. However, before you break out the sweet tea and lemonade, if these areas are not properly sealed, they offer dangerous pests such as termites, and even spiders, the perfect place to enjoy as well.
Before pests can get inside, they must first pass through the exterior of your home and garden.
Through regular indoor maintenance, homeowners can integrate habits that will help to discourage pests from finding their way inside and staying there!
By practicing healthy spring cleaning habits, you can deter pests from finding their way in and around your home. However, if they do make it in, contact your Truly Nolen pest control expert at (866) 395-6319 to schedule your free inspection.