How to protect your house from pests
Nothing is worse than being in a home infested with bugs. We hate them, but they seem to appear when we least expect it. Here are some home improvements to reduce the chances of an unwelcome visitor.
Install bug screens at windows
If you don’t already have them, get it! This is an easy way to keep insects from flying in and invading your space. Many window screen kits can be bought and installed pretty easily.
If you already have such screens, regularly check that there aren’t any holes or gaps large enough for insects to penetrate. Just one hole can result in a nasty surprise.
Secure other spaces
While windows are one of the more obvious points of entry, they’re not the only bugs can get in. Other points might not be as visible so you will have to examine carefully.
For bugs that can fit through nearly every hole, it’s going to take more than just sealing your windows to stop them. The gaps in doors or window frames or from the piping can work just as well for them. Fixing these gaps are not difficult, all you need is caulk or sealant.
Keep your home clean
While the above can help, having a messy house is supplying bugs with an endless supply of food and places to reproduce. This will make your problem worse despite what you do.
With a clean home, bugs have little reason to visit and stay. What this means: start doing dishes after every meal, wipe up any mess, keeping your place dry and throwing any trash regularly. It doesn’t have to be spotless, but a clean house is one of the best pest deterrents.
Use bug traps and repellents
If your problem has escalated and it’s too late for prevention, you’ll need to get to the root of the problem and actively debug your home. One way is to leave citrus peels near infest areas and lighting candles.
In more severe cases, try using bug traps and repellent sprays to tackle the problem first. If the problem is beyond your abilities, go for an exterminator before the bugs cause irreparable damage. In the case of termites, it can be extremely damaging to your furniture and walls.
Before your problem becomes too massive and you need outside help, the best method is still prevention. Save money and time in the future by spending some time on maintaining the cleanliness of your home and you won’t have to deal with those pests.
