Keeping pests out

With warmer temperatures and increased rain, spring is when pesky creatures can invade homes. Homeowners should avoid making these five mistakes that lead to pests.

1. Overlooking tiny cracks

Even tiny cracks and crevices in the foundation, doorways and walls where pipes enter the home could be inviting ants, roaches, spiders, rodents and other pests inside. A rat can squeeze through an opening as small as a quarter and a mouse can fit through a hole the size of a dime. Cockroaches, ants and spiders can enter through tiny crevices, too.

Pests are attracted to shelter, food and water. Homeowners should promptly clean up all water and food spills, seal any cracks and crevices around doors, windows and pipes and install weather stripping around and under all doors, including garage doors.

2. Obtaining second-hand furniture

Buying a home is an expensive investment and it may be tempting to save money with furniture from a thrift shop or garage sale, but bed bugs, spiders and even scorpions have been known to dwell in second-hand upholstered furniture.

Once inside, they can spread from room to room. That’s why it’s important to inspect and quarantine (for several months if possible) all second-hand furniture before bringing it inside your home.

3. Ignoring insulation

A home’s attic can be a gateway inside for many pests, such as rodents and cockroaches, which nest in insulation. Inspect insulation for pest activity and damage such as insulation that is wet, matted down, chewed or covered with droppings. New insulation technology incorporates materials specifically designed to help deter household pests.

4. Ignoring flooring and siding damage

Termites are called “silent destroyers” because they may be secretly thriving in a home or yard without immediate signs of damage. They cause more than $5 billion in damage every year in the United States, according to the National Pest Management Association.

House foundations, wood framing, furniture and shelves are all possible feeding sites for termites. In spring, termites can be seen swarming around windows or doors. Other signs of termite activity include buckling wood, swollen floors and ceilings, and areas that appear to be suffering from slight water damage.

Brick and mortar homes are not termite-proof as they have wooden components, such as framing and flooring.

It’s important to work with a licensed professional for regular inspections.

5. Not repairing leaks

Minor leaks may seem to be just that — minor — but leaks or condensation, combined with warmer temperatures, can create ideal conditions for cockroaches and other pests. American cockroaches, “camel crickets” and springtails can enter homes through tiny cracks and are attracted to damp areas, both in the attic or crawl space and indoors in the basement, kitchen or bathroom.

Small steps make a big difference. Fix leaking faucets and water pipes and eliminating standing water on the roof or in gutters to help prevent an infestation. For more tips to help prevent common household pests, visit Orkin.com.