With the cooler weather settling in, pests start looking for warm places to hide throughout the winter. For many of them, that means your house. Mice, spiders, stink bugs, and other insects often slip inside through the smallest cracks. Once in, they can become major headaches.
The good news? A little preparation this fall can prevent a season of unwanted guests in your house. If you’re looking for expert pest control in Maryland, use this Seal, Secure, and Sanitize checklist to protect your home before pests move in.
1. Seal: Close the Gaps
Understand that pests don’t break in; they sneak in. Even a small opening can let a mouse through. To seal them out, you must focus first on your home’s exterior:
- Check doors and windows. Replace worn weatherstripping and add door sweeps where light shows through.
- Inspect siding, foundations, and utility lines. Seal cracks with caulk or expandable foam. Around pipes and vents, use steel wool or wire mesh before sealing.
- Look at screens and vents. Patch holes and cover attic or dryer vents with fine mesh.
- Don’t forget chimneys and garages. Chimney caps and tight garage seals are key entry-point blockers.
According to PestWorld’s fall pest-proofing tips, sealing cracks and fixing screens are two of the simplest, most effective ways to keep pests out.
2. Secure: Make the Yard Less Inviting
Don’t assume the inside of your house is safe from pests. Keep in mind that the outside of your house can either attract pests or discourage them. Here’s how to keep them from getting too close:
- Trim trees and shrubs. Branches and vines act as bridges to your siding and roof. Keep them a few feet away from the house.
- Clear leaves and debris. Piles of leaves, mulch, or yard waste are perfect shelters for insects and rodents.
- Move firewood. Store it at least 20 feet away from the house and keep it elevated off the ground.
- Clean gutters and check drainage. Stagnant water draws mosquitoes, termites, and roaches.
- Secure trash and outdoor food. Use tight lids on trash cans, feed pets indoors, and keep bird feeders at a distance.
3. Sanitize: Remove Indoor Temptations
Once pests get inside, food and clutter keep them around. It’s critical to cut off their supply by:
- Storing food in sealed containers. This includes pet food and pantry staples.
- Taking out trash regularly. Use bins with tight lids.
- Fixing leaks. A dripping pipe or damp basement is a water source for roaches and rodents.
- Decluttering. Remove cardboard boxes, newspapers, and unused storage; if left alone, they are accessible as pest hideouts.
- Inspecting hidden areas. Check attics, basements, and crawlspaces for droppings, chew marks, or nests.
Pests to Watch for in Maryland This Fall
Below are some of the most common fall invaders in Maryland. Knowing which pests are active in fall makes it easier to prevent them before winter sets in.
- Rodents – Mice and rats can chew wires, contaminate food, and multiply quickly.
- Stink bugs – These insects slip inside in large numbers and release a strong odor when crushed.
- Spiders – They follow insects indoors; webs often appear in corners and windows.
- Ants and roaches – Kitchens and bathrooms are favorite hiding spots.
Safe Use of Pest Products
If you decide to use sprays or baits, read the label carefully and follow directions exactly. More product doesn’t mean more protection; in fact, overuse can be unsafe for people and pets. The EPA’s dos and don’ts of pest control stress the importance of prevention first, with careful product use only when needed.
When to Call the Pros
Sometimes prevention isn’t enough. Call a professional if:
- You’re seeing repeated signs of rodents or insects indoors.
- There’s evidence of termite damage.
- You discover a wasp or hornet nest in a risky spot.
- You’d like the peace of mind of year-round pest protection.
At Womack Pest Control, we’ve been protecting Maryland homes from seasonal pests for decades. Our team understands the unique challenges of this region and provides safe, effective solutions. Learn more about who we are and how we can help keep your home pest-free.
Stay Pest Free This Fall
Fall is the best time to get ahead of pest problems. By sealing gaps, securing the outside, and sanitizing indoors, you’ll make your home a far less attractive target for pests looking to move in for the winter. And if you need extra help, do not hesitate to contact us; we’re here to back you up.