Summer is the perfect time for a getaway, but while you’re enjoying a well-deserved break, pests can take advantage of your empty home. Ensuring your house is pest-proofed before you leave on vacation can save you from coming back to unpleasant surprises. Here’s a guide to help you protect your home while you’re away.

Common Pests That Invade Homes During Summer

Some pests are more active in the summer months than others, making them more likely to become a problem. These include:

Ants: Often searching for food and water, ants can infiltrate your home in large numbers.
Termites: These wood-destroying insects can cause significant structural damage if not kept in check.
Rodents: Mice and rats can find their way inside looking for shelter and food.
Spiders: While generally not harmful, spiders can multiply quickly and become a nuisance.
Cockroaches: Attracted by food and moisture, cockroaches can spread diseases.

Steps to Pest-Proof Your Home

Before heading out on your summer vacation, take these steps to ensure your home remains pest-free:

Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home: Check for gaps, cracks, and holes in walls, windows, doors, and the foundation.
Use caulk and weather stripping: Seal any openings with caulk and apply weather stripping to doors and windows.

Keep Your Home Clean

Store food properly: Keep all food in airtight containers to prevent attracting pests.
Clean kitchen and dining areas: Ensure all surfaces are wiped down and free from crumbs and spills.
Take out the trash: Dispose of garbage regularly and keep bins tightly sealed.

Manage Moisture Levels

Fix leaks: Repair any leaks in plumbing to avoid creating damp areas that attract pests.
Use dehumidifiers: In particularly humid areas of your home, use dehumidifiers to keep moisture levels down.

Outdoor Maintenance

Trim vegetation: Keep trees and bushes trimmed away from your home to reduce pest access points.
Clear debris: Remove piles of leaves, wood, and other debris from your yard where pests might hide.
Maintain your lawn: A well-maintained lawn discourages pests from settling close to your home.

Use Preventive Treatments

Apply insecticides: Use appropriate insecticides around the perimeter of your home to create a barrier against pests.
Set traps: Place traps for rodents in strategic locations around your home.

By taking proactive steps to pest-proof your home, you can enjoy your summer vacation with peace of mind. For extra protection, consider enlisting professional help from Pestmaster.

Our expert technicians will evaluate your property to create a customized pest solution that suits your needs. Our preventative treatment options are designed to keep pests at bay all summer long.