As The Seasons Change, So Do The Pests

Fall is almost here. What does that mean for Nashville and Middle Tennessee? It means that there will be a different group of bugs and small, furry critters trying to get into our homes and businesses. Each season has its own challenges. And it's own pests. Fall is the time of year when we start to deal with overwintering bugs. But it is also the time of year when year-round pests, like rodents, become more motivated to get inside. Let's take a look at the problem and explore some solutions that will help you get ready for the invasion.

The Problem

There are many pests that can live in homes. These are the bugs that survive on the food sources that are available in our homes. They also have the ability to chew their way into packages to get at those foods. Overwintering pests are different. Many overwintering pests find it hard, or impossible, to get a meal inside our homes. Ladybugs, boxelder bugs and stink bugs may look like they are right at home in your home, but they're not. They're only looking for a place to hide from the cold weather. Once winter has passed, if these guys survive, they will look for a way to get back out.

Some overwintering pests aren't as obvious as the bugs listed above. There are some that will hide in eaves, rooflines, soffits, and wall voids, presenting no problem at all through the winter. But their presence will be felt in spring when they emerge and begin to make nests in your home, or in your yard. Wasps are a great example of this kind of pest.

This is the time of year when rodents become more of a problem. While you can get mice, rats, and squirrels in your house anytime of the year, these invasions increase in fall. And, unlike overwintering bugs, rodents have no desire to leave a home once they have gotten in. Your home is perfect for them.

The Solution

Before pests move in, you need to put the unwelcome mat out. You need to let those bugs and rodents know, in no uncertain terms, that they are not welcome in your home. But, this is not an easy task to accomplish. Exterior walls must be sealed, and there must be a limited and focused application of materials to ensure the best barrier possible. This should be done by a professional pest control technician according to protocols and safety guidelines established by industry experts.

If you need assistance with fall pest exclusion, reach out to All-American Pest Control. We'll walk you through all your options and help you put a stop to pests before they move in.