Prevention
Termites
- Break wood-to-soil contact as much as possible
- Remove paper debris and scrap wood lying around
- Improve ventilation in crawl spaces
- Inspect vapor barriers
Carpenter Ants
- Eliminate conditions that can lead to moisture accumulation
- Aerate and move firewood
- Get rid of stumps and overhanging branches that touch your house
- Remove dead trees
Cockroaches
- Immediately clean up spilled water and foods
- Eliminate pathway areas by sealing or screening
- Increase ventilation
- Repair water leaks
Other Ants
- Avoid garbage accumulation
- Seal all crevices and cracks
- Try to locate and eliminate nests
- Correct any drainage in houseplants
- Seal cracks in concrete slabs and pavement
Fleas
- Frequently vacuum carpet and furniture
- Keep pets in the yard
- Remove wild animals from structure
Flying Insects
- Install or repair existing screens
- Change lighting
- Remove garbage daily
- Keep trash cans tightly covered and clean
- Repair any cracks around siding, doors and windows
Pantry & Fabric Pests
- Inspect foods and their packaging prior to storage
- Try to store foods in glass or plastic containers
- Rotate dry goods
- Clean-up spilled liquids and foods
- Store only clean cloths
Squirrels/Bats/Birds
- Install chimney caps and screens on roof openings
- Remove tree branches in contact with home
- Repair holes in soffit and along roof
Mice and Rats
- Install physical barriers
- Eliminate food and water
- Remove nesting sites
- Inspect incoming boxes