How To Protect Your House Against Squirrel Infestation During Cold Weather
Have you had squirrel problems in the past? As the weather gets colder, squirrels tend to move into homes; it only makes sense, they're looking for a comfortable place to weather the storms. Unfortunately, squirrels cause a lot of damage to homes. They will burrow and dig and spread filth and disease. If you don't want squirrels invading your home come winter, you must protect your house:
Clean Out the Clutter
You know the term "spring cleaning"? It doesn't just have to be spring. Clear out any clutter within your attic, basement and spare rooms. Clutter is attractive to all types of pests because it gives them hiding spaces. It's also attractive to bugs and termites, which will serve as high calorie, convenient snacks for any pests.
Seal Up Your Home
Go through your home to make sure that there aren't any entry points, such as an old basement window. This has the additional advantage of improving your home's insulation. Squirrels are a lot like cats; you'd be surprised what they can fit through. Any hole that is the size of a squirrel's head could potentially be a squirrel's way in. If they feel a warm breeze coming from your heated home, they will be more likely to be attracted to it.
Remove Any External Debris
Do you have bushes growing close to your home? Plants that are growing along your home's foundation? Not only will this lure in pests and make it harder to get them out, but it could also be damaging your foundation. Rake up leaves and debris and cut down any plants growing along your home's walls.
Use Screens Over Vents
There are some openings and vents in your home that you can't just close, such as drainage pipes and chimney vents. Screens should be used to ensure that animals cannot get in. After all, animals don't know where these things lead--you could end up with a toasted squirrel if they slip into a chimney just before you light it up!
Make Sure to Avoid Standing Water
The winter months can be rainy in addition to being cold. When it rains, look outside and make sure that puddles of water are not forming around your home. This will attract animals. In general, your ground should always be slanted so that water simply runs off or absorbs into the ground nearby.
If you already have a pest problem, it may be too late for preventative measures. You should call a reliable pest control company. Once you hear the pitter patter of little feet in your walls, you could already be facing significant internal and electrical damage. If you feel like you've already lost or are worried about the coming invasion of squirrels, contact a company like Alliance Pest Management, Inc. to learn more about preparing to repel them.