The Importance of Regular Home Inspections to Prevent Pest Infestations
Summer is the peak season for pests in eastern Virginia, and if you’re a homeowner, it’s crucial to keep your property pest-free to not only avoid damage and potential health risks but also to maintain a comfortable and hygienic living space. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about keeping pests away from your home this summer.
Common Pests in Eastern Virginia
Eastern Virginia is home to several pests that become active during the summer months. These include:
Ants: Ants are one of the most common pests in eastern Virginia. They can march in huge numbers and contaminate food and surfaces that they touch. Carpenter ants can cause significant structural damage to homes, making them a species to watch out for.
- Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes thrive in hot, humid weather and breed in standing water. They can carry harmful diseases like West Nile virus, dengue fever, and Zika virus, making them a public health concern.
- Cockroaches: Roaches are known for their ability to enter structures through small cracks and crevices. They spread bacteria, emit foul odors, and can contaminate food. In some cases, they can cause asthma and allergy symptoms.
- Termites: Termites can wreak havoc on your home by eating through wood, causing extensive damage that can be costly to repair. Unfortunately, they may go unnoticed until the damage is done.
- Rodents: Mice and rats can squeeze through even the smallest openings, making it easy for them to enter your home. They contaminate food and surfaces, spread diseases, and can cause significant damage to your property.
Why Summer is the Peak Pest Season
Summer is the perfect breeding and feeding season for pests. High temperatures provide ideal breeding conditions while the abundance of food and vegetation attracts pests. Additionally, many pests become more active in their search for refuge, food, and heat during the summer months.
Preventing Summer Pest Infestations
The key to keeping pests away from your home during the summer is prevention. Here’s what you need to know.
- Conduct Regular Home Inspections: An inspection of your home is the best way to identify potential entry points for pests. Check doors, windows, and foundations for any cracks or holes big enough for pests to squeeze through. Sealing all entry points with weather stripping and gaps with caulk can help keep pests out.
- Reduce Clutter and Moisture: Clutter and moisture create the perfect nesting environment for pests. Remove any piles of boxes, old newspapers, and magazines from your home and yard. Fix any leaks, clean gutters and downpours, and redirect downpours away from your foundation. Remove any standing water, including pet water bowls.
- Use Pest Deterrents: There are plenty of DIY strategies available to help deter pests from your home. For example, planting mint, lavender, and other scented plants can deter ants and rodents. Peppermint oil also works wonders in repelling spiders, cockroaches, and other critters.
- Consider Professional Services: If you have a severe or persistent pest problem, then consider hiring Eco Pest. we can identify the species, the extent of the infestation, and provide the best course of treatment.
Pests can cause significant damage to your home while posing a real risk to your health. By following the tips provided in this article, you can prevent pests from entering your home, saving yourself time and money spent on pest control. Remember to be vigilant, do regular inspections, and make any needed repairs to keep your home pest-free this summer.
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