Spring is Here – But So Are the Pests! Here’s How to Keep Them Out

Spring has officially arrived! The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and the warmer weather has us all itching to spend more time outside. But as we welcome the beauty of the season, we also have to deal with some less-than-welcome visitors—pests. 🐜🐀🕷

From ants marching into your kitchen to squirrels nesting in the attic, spring is when many critters become more active, looking for food, shelter, and water. The good news? With a little bit of proactive home maintenance, you can keep these pesky intruders outside, where they belong.

Here are six essential spring maintenance tips to help pest-proof your home and keep your space safe and comfortable all season long:

1. Give Your Home a Thorough Exterior Inspection

Spring is the perfect time to walk around your property and take stock of any winter damage. Look for cracks, holes, and any structural wear and tear on your siding, foundation, windows, and doors. Even the tiniest opening can be an invitation for insects and rodents to sneak inside. Don’t forget to check vents and pipes too—they’re common pest entry points.

Tip: Pay extra attention to areas around doors and windows, where seals may have worn down over the winter.

 

2. Seal Up Those Sneaky Gaps

Once you’ve identified any gaps or cracks, grab your caulking gun and weatherstripping to seal them up. Repair torn window screens and replace worn-out door sweeps to block pests from slipping inside. Sealing up these entryways not only helps with pest prevention but also improves your home’s energy efficiency—win-win!

3. Inspect Hidden Spaces: Attic & Basement

Your attic and basement can be cozy hideouts for critters like rodents, bats, and insects. Inspect these areas for droppings, nesting materials, or other signs of pest activity. Make sure any vents leading to these spaces are properly covered with fine mesh or screens, and address any moisture issues, as damp environments attract pests.

Pro tip: Installing a dehumidifier in your basement can help deter moisture-loving pests like silverfish and centipedes.

 

4. Trim Back Overhanging Branches & Vines

Trees, shrubs, and climbing vines may add charm to your home’s exterior, but they can also act as highways for pests. Squirrels, raccoons, and ants can use overhanging branches as easy access points to your roof and attic. Regularly trim back greenery to create a safe perimeter around your house and reduce pest pathways.

5. Tidy Up Your Yard

A cluttered yard provides plenty of hiding spots and nesting grounds for pests. Clear out leaf litter, woodpiles, and any yard debris near your home’s foundation. Keep your lawn mowed and maintain garden beds to discourage pests from setting up camp. Also, make sure outdoor garbage bins are sealed tightly to avoid attracting scavengers like raccoons and rodents.

6. Know When to Call in the Pros

If you’re noticing signs of a larger infestation—such as gnawed wires, strong odors, or recurring pest sightings—it might be time to contact a professional pest control service. A licensed expert can assess the situation and recommend a safe and effective treatment plan, giving you peace of mind heading into the warmer months.

Spring is a season of renewal, but that doesn’t mean pests have to be part of the package! By following these simple home maintenance tips, you can enjoy a fresh, pest-free home and spend more time soaking up the sunshine.