5 Tips for Summer Pest Control

The challenge of keeping pests away during the summer is one that many homeowners face. When the weather outside heats up, bugs, rodents, and other types of pests may come out more often, invading your property or even making their way inside your home. Luckily, there are things you can do to keep these unwelcome visitors away.

There are several common pests that come out in full force in the summer: wasps, bees, mosquitoes, hornets, ticks, and even ants. These pests aren’t just a nuisance. Some of them may bite, sting, or carry germs and bacteria into your home.

Additionally, pests like mice, roaches, bed bugs, and spiders may also be more noticeable during the summer. These insects and rodents can often be found inside home, making it important for homeowners to take action. Here are our five best summer pest control tips to give you and your family a break from the bugs this year.

1. Replace Your Weatherstripping

The first place to start with pest control is inside of your home. We recommend that homeowners examine the barrier between their home’s exit and entrance points to see if there are places where bugs may be getting inside. Look closely at your home’s windows and doors to see potential spots.

It’s important to periodically replace the weatherstripping on all windows and doors in the home. Weatherstripping breaks down over time, creating gaps that may lead to drafts, energy loss, and openings for bugs to get inside of the home. To prevent this, you should inspect and replace weatherstripping options like foam tape, V-shaped weatherstripping, and tubular gaskets along your doors.

2. Eliminate Any Standing Water

The next step to take to keep summer pests away is to eliminate any standing water on your property. Standing water may become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and make venturing outside into the backyard a problem.

First, make sure there aren’t areas on the property where water collects and pools, such as birdbaths, outdoor furniture, sports equipment, play pools, and toys. Bring items inside if they create spots where water collects.

Sometimes the layout of a property makes it more likely to have areas of standing water. Work with a contractor to solve water drainage problems on your property or fix low-lying spots in the yard.

3. Trim Landscaping

Your landscaping also creates more environments where bugs like to live during the summer. In the early spring, it’s essential to focus on your property’s landscaping around the perimeter of your home to keep the insect population under control. Overgrown foliage attracts more bugs and brings them closer to your home.

Get into a regular routine of cutting the grass every two or three weeks. Bushes, branches, and trees should get regular trims throughout the spring or summer to keep these areas from hosting insects and other critters.

Additionally, take the time to keep weeds under control. Start by weeding garden areas and laying down mulch to keep weeds from growing in your landscaped areas. Use products to reduce weeds throughout your property and keep shady, cool spots from getting overgrown.

Evaluate the types of plants you have in your yard and replace species that may attract certain types of nuisance bugs. Some varieties of plants, such as lavender, catnip, and basil, may help prevent mosquitoes from nesting in your yard.

4. Inspect Outdoor Furniture

Backyard furniture is also a spot where bugs may attempt to make a home. Some pests love to burrow inside of popular patio furniture choices, such as wicker, to make a nest. Wasps and spiders may use parts of your outdoor furniture as hiding spots, so it’s important to take precautions to avoid a nasty surprise when you sit down.

One place to pay special attention to is the cloth padding for your outdoor furniture. Chairs, benches, and outdoor couches may have removable cloth pieces that get abused by the weather and hot sun of the summer.

Tiny bugs may find refuge inside or underneath these furniture pads. Keep them away by removing the cloth and washing it off every week. Clean the rest of the furniture as well to remove debris and anything that could attract insects.

Another way to protect your furniture is to use a spray or insect repellent product on the furniture to deter any critters. Peppermint oil has proven to be an effective deterrent. It may also help to choose outdoor furniture designs that are simple and not too ornate. Basic designs may not have as many hiding spots for tiny insects.

5. Hire a Pest Control Service

The most effective way to keep your summer pest free is to join forces with a professional pest control team. A pest control service will work with you to plan for a summer of relaxation and enjoyment throughout your home and property. Pest control professionals can evaluate your home and property to give recommendations for a customized pest control plan.

Your pest control service technician may start by suggesting tick and mosquito treatment sprays for your yard and exterior. These products help reduce the insect population and keep you and your family from having to deal with constant mosquito bites and tick problems. This helps make the yard more pleasant and fun for summer entertaining and play.

If there is an active pest infestation in or outside of the home, a pest control provider gives you the best options to make your home pest free. Regular pest control services help eliminate pest issues and return your home to a healthier and more comfortable state.

Find a Best Pick Contractor in Your Area

Best Pick Reports will help you find a qualified pest control professional in your area to help ensure you have a more relaxed summer. Your summer should not be a time of stress and anxiety worrying about insects and other pests. Find a local Best Pick® pest & termite control company near you now.