Keep Your Home Pest-Free in Winter Weather

Winter is here and in New England that brings all kinds of crazy weather. There’s snow, ice, wild winds and heavy rain. During any type of weather, homeowners should take steps to prevent any unwanted pests from moving into their home. Some new areas of concern can arise during this season and needs some review with the different weather scenarios.

Typical cold weather pests in New England, such as mice, spiders, rats and roaches, tend to seek shelter in higher numbers with the arrival of winter weather. These pests can not only cause structural damage to walls and electrical wires, but also spread diseases during a time when people are spending more time indoors.

Snow, ice, wind and rain can all cause different types of home deficiency issues that could end up granting pests entry ways into your home. There are many precautions homeowners can take during the winter season to keep pests at bay.

• Snow: When the temperature drops and snow starts to accumulate, rodents including mice, rats and squirrels will be searching for warmth indoors. Rodents can squeeze through small cracks and crevices that might get overlooked, especially where pipes and wires enter the home. Once inside, they can cause structural and electrical damage and spread disease. Homeowners should regularly inspect the exterior and interior of their home for any possible access points for pests.
• Ice: Homeowners should keep on the lookout for ice dams, which form on roofs and can prevent snow from melting. The moisture backup from ice dams can cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and drywall. This can attract a number of pests that love moisture such as carpenter ants. Keep an eye out for any leaky spots in the home that could indicate an ice dam and take action to remove it before further damage occurs.
• Wind: Strong winds can cause damage to roof shingles. Cracked areas in the roof and siding are perfect places for nuisance wildlife, including raccoons and bats, to gain access to the home. Periodically check the roof for missing shingles and be sure to fix damage right away.
• Rain: Homeowners should check trouble spots for any leaks or areas of moisture caused by rain or melting snow. Pests such as termites are attracted to moisture and often go unseen as they build nests and grow their colonies inside homes. Be sure basements and attics are dry and clear of water damage after heavy rain or snowfall.

The winter weather is aggravating and stressful, but if you take the precautions to keep the pests out of your home, it is one less worry and headache of a future pest infestation.

For more information on winter pests, please visit www.a1exterminators.com.