How to Pest-Proof Your Home Before Summer

Every pest infestation starts the same way: something found a gap, water or a meal. Pest-proofing is simply closing those three doors before warm weather sends out the invitations.

Seal the envelope

• Caulk gaps around windows, doors and where pipes enter walls
• Repair torn screens and add door sweeps
• Screen attic vents and chimney tops on older homes

Remove the buffet

• Store pantry goods in sealed containers, clean crumbs under appliances
• Take kitchen trash out nightly and use bins with lids
• Never leave pet food out overnight

Cut the water supply

Fix dripping spigots, empty anything that holds rainwater, clean gutters, and keep mulch and firewood away from the foundation. Mosquitoes need only a bottle cap of standing water.

The professional layer

A quarterly barrier treatment creates a treated perimeter most insects will not cross. It is far cheaper than emergency extermination and it is the single best-reviewed investment among homeowners on pest questions.

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