Preventing Pest Infestations In The Crawl Space... Without Pest Control!
Pest infestations have long plagued homeowners across Georgia, and the problem is only getting worse as time passes. Pests can present a very serious problem for a household, making residents sick, destroying wood, and creating a nuisance. In the case of mice and rats chewing on wires, an infestation can also create a very real fire hazard.
To date, it's been estimated that 1 in 30 homes are infested by termites annually – and that's not counting all the other possible infestations! But what can be done to prevent these unwanted guests?
Preventative Measures For Pest Infestations In Your Home
While we can name a litany of devices, gadgets, and home remedies that claim to deter pests from your home, the best, most tried-and-true methods of pest prevention still seem to work best. Following these three common-sense rules is a vital step to keeping your home protected.
Rule 1: Keep The Pests Away From Your Home
If pests can't get into your home, then they can't live there. Since many pests enter your home through the ground level, this is a great time to take a look at your basement and crawl space. Seal off any openings, including around those old, rusted windows. Seal off your crawl space and install a vapor barrier to hold back the pests that would otherwise march in through the open vents and from the dirt floor.
Since many pests are attracted to wet, moldy environments and rotting wood, be sure to eliminate all sources of standing water and run a powerful dehumidifier system. If they can't find moisture, they can't live there.
Rule 2: Keep The Pests' Homes Away From Your Home:
Pests (especially termites) like to congregate in piles of organic matter. If you have leaves, sticks, woods, or compost collected close to your home, it's time to move it to the other side of the yard. If their home isn't near yours, then they're less likely to move in.
Additionally, it's important that the dirt level (known as the “grade line”) is not too high up along your foundation. If the dirt extends high enough to touch your home's wood siding, you may have created a path for ants, subterranean termites, and more to enter your home. Keep at least 18 inches of concrete separating ground level from your concrete walls.
Rule 3: Keep An Eye Our For Infestations:
More than ever, subterranean termites are spreading through seed colonies, instead of the telltale swarming that many homeowners relate to an infestation. Because of this, it's possible for termites to live in a home for six, eight, even ten years without the homeowner's knowledge. This can lead to enormous damage to your home!
Annual visits from your local pest inspector can help you keep on top of infestations – before they lead to serious damage to your home. Your local pest inspector can also advise you on locations around your home that may be more vulnerable than others to infestations, so you can act before a problem arises. This is one small expense you shouldn't pass up!
We Specialize In Crawl Space & Pest Control Services!
Whether you need help beating back a serious infestation, you'd like to seal your crawl space to prevent pest infestations, or you're simply interested in having an annual checkup on your home, Burroughs Pest Control is the company you're looking for! We specialize in both pest control and creating dry, healthy crawl spaces, and we're standing by to help you!
To schedule an appointment for pest control in Atlanta, GA or for a free crawl space encapsulation quite, contact us by phone or e-mail today! Our Georgia service area includes Atlanta, Lawrenceville, Marietta, Bowdon, Kennesaw, Douglasville, and the surrounding areas.
