Pest Control Tips for New Homeowners

September 23, 2016 Kristin Dodd

Buying a new home is an exciting time. It is often easy to envision where to put your furniture and the improvements to be made. New homeowners may overlook that one’s home is quite vulnerable to pests. At Carolina Pest Management, we’ve helped protect homes for over 80 years. Here are some simple steps you can take to keep pests out of your new home.

Secure the Perimeter

Seal gaps and holes on the exterior of your home as well as seal any cracks in the foundation. Pay extra attention to the areas surrounding entrances, windows, vents, and along the eaves of your roof. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mice are able to squeeze through a hole the size of a nickel. Insects and spiders can even sneak in through tiny cracks. Vent openings that cannot be sealed should be covered with wire mesh to keep any critters out of the home.

Keep Moisture at Bay

Moisture and standing water attracts pests. Check to assure outdoor faucets do not leak. Ensure rain gutters drain away from the home and will not allow water to pool near the foundation. Avoid using landscaping materials that retain moisture such as wood mulch close to the house. Moisture can also draw pests inside the house. Avoid overwatering houseplants and ventilate areas at risk for moisture, such as the bathroom.

Eliminate Potential Food Sources

If pests do get inside your home, an easily accessible food supply will attract more pests much faster than you might expect. Keep counters, cabinets, stovetops, and floors clean and clear of crumbs, especially overnight when many pests are most active. Store any open food in containers with tight-fitting lids. Use plastic bags or liners in indoor garbage cans and empty them often.

Invest in a Monthly Pest Control Treatment

When you purchase a new home, you desire to enjoy it. A monthly pest control treatment plan allows you to spend your free time doing more than waging battle against stinging insects, spiders, and rodents. Even if you don’t see pests for a while, it’s important to remember that pest activity has seasonal highs and lows. A trained pest control professional knows what to inspect and how to prevent these fluctuating pest levels from becoming infestations.

At Carolina Pest Management, we offer a variety of services for the option that works best for you and your family. As a trusted name in pest control since 1939, we offer safe and effective ways to keep your new home pest free. Monthly service options include our comprehensive General Pest Service with interior and exterior treatment, our exterior only treatment, and our Eco-Friendly Green Service that uses botanical-based products perfect for environmentally sensitive areas. If you have recently purchased a house or have questions about any of our pest control service, contact us today.