Home pest infestations can have a damaging effect on your family’s health and home. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vector-borne diseases account for more than 17% of all infectious diseases. Among the viral diseases transmitted by vectors are dengue, yellow fever, encephalitis, and E-Coli infection.
Moreover, a pest infestation that is not dealt with properly can cause expensive structure damages and lower your home value. The National Pest Management Association reported over $5 billion of property damage in the U.S. each year due to termites and other insects.
By taking pest prevention measures, you can keep pests and insects out of the house. Here are 5 ways to avoid pest infestation:
Clean the clutter
Household clutter primarily attracts pests into your home. When you leave your house areas unchecked, such as your attic, basement, garage, and storage rooms, they usually become a breeding ground for pests and insects. Keep your house clean and free from clutter all the time by following regular cleaning schedules. Consult experts regarding pest prevention cleaning products that are suitable for your home.
Store food properly
Pests like ants, rodents, and cockroaches love any leftover food in your kitchen. Before you leave home or sleep at night, make sure there are no food items left in the open.
Learn how to store your food regularly to prevent pest infestations in your home. Use tightly-sealed food containers made of food-grade plastic, glass, and stainless steel. Fresh food supplies, like fruits and vegetables, must be stored inside your fridge.
Seal cracks and gaps
Cracks and gaps in your doors and windows serve as access points for pests. Do not forget to seal them up using caulk. Caulk is widely available, cheap, and easy to apply. Apply caulk to cracks around your doors, windows, fascia board, etc. However, sealing your home would be useless if the doors are always left open. If you have forgetful kids or family members, consider installing an automatic or self-closing door.
Empty and clean your waste bin regularly
Do not allow your waste bins to become too full and the garbage to pile up in the corner. Make it a point to empty your waste bin twice a week or as often as needed. You must also clean it from the inside out as pests, such as cockroaches, can be easily attracted to dirt.
Keep your home dry
Pests and insects thrive in areas where there’s moisture. To maintain a moisture-free home, safe from pests infestations, provide proper ventilation around your house areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Faulty plumbing is among the primary causes of moisture build-up around your home. If you have clogged drains and leaky pipes or faucets, call your trusted local plumber right away to fix the problem.
Improving your home’s plumbing system is one effective way to prevent pest infestations. Do not wait for minor plumbing issues to be the cause of expensive structure damages in your property. Get professional consultations and estimates from a licensed and experienced plumbing company today.
