As a homeowner, pest issues are the last thing that you want to deal with, but sometimes they are simply unavoidable. From ants, flies, bed bugs, spiders, wasps, bees, termites to rodents, there is always the potential of a menace that you may need to mitigate. You need to stay vigilant in order to avoid problems with preventative maintenance and periodic inspections. While some pests only cause minor issues, others such as termites can create major damage such as structural issues if left neglected, so calling in a commercial pest control service would be highly advisable if you suspect a problem. A CSIRO Survey indicates about 1 in 3 dwellings have termites within the property boundary indicating the gravity of the situation.
Here are some quick fixes and guidelines to manage potential pest issues.
1. Regular home inspection
As a homeowner, you have to be proactive about pest control by keeping a watch out for any potential infestations. A quick regular walk around your home to check for pest problems may not go far enough. If suspected, calling in a pest control company can go further and carry diagnostic tests to make it easier to detect termite infestations and eliminate it early.
2. Seal cracks and holes
When was the last time you carried out a close inspection of your home’s exterior for exposed cracks? Most homeowners are too busy to do this, so it’s no wonder that most pest infestations come to light when they are already a big problem. Take a close look at your homes exterior walls and seal any cracks and holes. Pay special attention around windows and doors as these areas tend to need regular attention.
3. Maintain a clean home
One of the easiest pest control methods is simply to keep your indoor and outdoor spaces clean. To keep cockroaches, ants and termites out of your house, it is necessary to plan regular cleaning for the entire house. Clear any debris such as timber lying around. Make sure you arrange everything neatly and avoid placing dry wood on the ground. Inside your home, clean up after every meal and keep your kitchen sparkling clean as cockroaches and ants can survive on breadcrumbs.
4. Keep your house dry
Having a damp basement is never a good idea, however it is even more important than just avoiding a musty smell. Having a moist environment is the perfect breeding ground for insects such as termites. Make sure your plumbing has no leaks and do a thorough inspection of your concrete foundation. If you find no leaks but still have a damp basement, invest in a dehumidifier or other solutions to keep the rooms dry.
