What Makes Your Home Vulnerable to Infestation?

As seasons change, many homeowners will find that there is at least some point in which an infestation takes place. While a cold winter or blistering summer may help to partially remove some of the less weather-resistant bugs, they are notoriously adept at surviving in and around a home. For those that are struggling with these insects, it is important to know what makes a house so appealing and what can be done to prevent these infestations.

Trapped Warm Air

Anyone that lives in a climate that even gets slightly cold at some point in the year could find that bugs are going to be attracted to their buildings. Even when the bugs are not seen, they are typically going to use the home as a place to survive the winter. This is why pest control Indianapolis is so important throughout the year as bugs such as cockroaches, lady beetles, and stinkbugs often use the insides of walls or an attic to survive.

Moisture and Mold

Except for a select few bugs that live in extremely arid environments, almost every infestation will require at least one consistent source of moisture. Within the confines of a home or basement, this typically comes down to minor issues with one’s plumbing. Unfortunately, even a small crack on a pipe or an improperly ventilated basement could result in the perfect breeding ground for bugs that thrive during the summer and fall.

Artificial Lights

Artificial lights are notorious for attracting bugs such as moths, mayflies, houseflies, and beetles. Many of these flying bugs are nothing more than a nuisance while others could be carriers of disease. For those that are ready to be rid of these pests there are only two options. They must either turn the light off in order to give the insects no reason to stay near the home or use commercial sprays or bug zappers as a temporary solution.

Food Sources

All bugs need food and a human’s home is the perfect place to get it. When an infestation does occur, their numbers will skyrocket and they will be on the hunt for easy food sources. Some of the most overlooked sources of food include residue in aluminum cans, animal droppings, and residue in trash bins.

Pet Parasites

Dogs, cats, and other animals who spend a significant time outside have the potential to bring in a variety of unwanted household pests. The main concern is fleas. Once a dog gets fleas, the bugs can end up making a home in your carpet, beds and other locations that harbor flea life.

Old Exterior Wood

Many parasites including carpenter bees, carpenter ants, and termites love to use decks, trimming and other wood structures for their homes. These bugs will burrow into the wood to lay their eggs for the coming season. Usually, these bugs follow each other, so if one comes, a swarm follows. You will notice perfectly circular holes in your wood. Serious structural damage can come if these pests go untreated.

A home infestation is not only annoying, it can also be harmful to a family’s health. That is why it is essential to know exactly how and why these pests are attracted to a home in order to avoid these common scenarios.

These home tips were provided by Hannah Whittenly from Sacramento, CA with help from Gold Seal Pest Control in Indianapolis, IN.