Why Pests are a Big Problem for Tiny Homes
No matter the size, location or design of your home, pest proofing is essential to ensure pests and rodents come nowhere near or inside it. Still, try as you might, no home is fool-proof when it comes to pests. As a homeowner, there are a variety of steps you can take to keep pests out as well as prevent them from making real estate out of your home. Here are several ideas to consider.
Understanding Pests
There are dozens of pests that can infest your home, many of which can cause serious monetary damage to prized keepsakes and possessions. Termites infest 600,000 American homes annually, and according to the Department of Agriculture, homeowners collectively spend $1 billion to treat termites, although some experts say that figure is closer to $2 billion.
Meantime, rodents — we’re talking mice and rats— are also destructive and can cause serious health issues, too. In fact, rats not only carry but can also transmit serious diseases. Additionally, they can introduce disease-carrying parasites like ticks and fleas into your home.
And while they’re one of the most common pests, cockroaches can contaminate food and even trigger asthma and allergy attacks. Pests are expensive to get rid of, but they can also impact the health of you and your family, making eradication and prevention vitally important.
Pest Prevention
No one wants to constantly be shooing away flies and moths while eating dinner or watching TV. But, did you know you can take action to safeguard your home before pests gain access? Start by sealing any and all entry points throughout your home. This is vitally important, as experts warn that rodents can squeeze their way through holes the size of a dime.
Thus, any access points larger than a pen cap should be sealed with cement or another mixing compound. Pests enter homes because it’s an ideal living environment with plenty of food, water, warmth, and shelter. But if you remove these food and water sources, they will be less likely to inhabit your home. Start off by storing all food items properly with lids that are tightly sealed.
Additionally, take action to keep your home clean, and consider bathrooms and kitchens pest hotspots. With that in mind, all garbage bins should be tightly sealed and food scraps discarded right away. And spots, where moisture is present, should be addressed urgently, as these areas are definitely more prone to pest activity.
Pest Treatment
Unfortunately, proper prevention of pests and rodents doesn’t always work. Pests can gain access to your home under the radar, no matter how many steps you’ve taken to keep them out. If you notice signs of pest infestation, such as rodent droppings, cockroaches or splitting wood caused by termites, it’s a good idea to call a trusted, professional pest service.
In fact, the EPA advises homeowners to look for quality and value when selecting a pest management company. The federal agency also recommends requesting a copy of the company’s license as well as a list of all pesticides that will be used for extermination. After all, a properly licensed and experienced pest management company should have the know-how and experience to treat infestations. And, reputable professionals should have no issue with providing the requested documents.
No home is off limits when it comes to pests. Luckily, as a homeowner, there are preventive steps you or an experienced professional can employ to eliminate the threat of pests in your home.
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