Storms and hurricanes can be devastating to entire communities. Arizona is no stranger to monsoons, which bring torrential rains that can cause debris flows, landslides, and flash floods. It’s just as important to safeguard your property against pests as it is to protect your home and yard against the high winds and rains that are part and parcel of storms.
You may not realize that downed trees and standing water send insects and other pests to higher ground where they can get shelter. If they can get to high and dry ground, they can get into your house. It’s not uncommon for pest populations to spike following a major storm. Follow these tips to keep your home pest-free during these situations. If you do notice a pest invasion, contact your trusted Scottsdale pest control technicians.
Inspect the Property
When you know a storm is on its way, take a look around the perimeter of your home on the outside, and then inspect the interior as well. Be on the lookout for structural issues that could worsen with the impending storm. Wipe up and repair existing water damage, seal all cracks with silicone-based caulk, and ensure your downspouts are sloping away from the foundation. In addition, make sure all mulch, garbage cans, and other sites that can attract pests stay away from the house.
Drain Standing Water
Take a look around your yard and drain any water that could become a breeding playground for disease-carrying mosquitoes. Remember, these pests only need a bottle cap full of water in which they can lay their eggs – hundreds at a time! Standing water sources include overturned toys, grill covers, birdbaths, clogged gutters, flowerpots, and garbage can lids.
Discard Spoiled Food
Storms often cause power outages, which can cause food in your fridge to spoil. This happens more quickly than you realize, and tainted food will attract critters of all kinds into your home, such as ants, rodents, flies, and cockroaches. Throw spoiled food in a sealed trash bag and place it in outdoor receptacles with tight lids.
Identify Water Damage
Rotting wood is a common by-product of water damage, and that rotting wood can attract termites. When left unchecked, thousands of dollars’ worth of damage can be done to your home when termites chew through wood flooring, joists, and walls. On top of that, excess moisture around your yard will saturate your soil and send ants upwards seeking higher ground. Don’t let pests hide in rotting debris; get rid of it, while at the same time repairing damaged or leaking pipes.
Check For Openings
Wind, rain, and hail due to storms can displace wildlife in addition to causing damage to your home. Larger pests such as mice, rats, raccoons, and squirrels can make their way into your house through damaged soffits, roofing, and siding. Look for damage along your exteriors and fix any concerning issues. Sealing gaps and cracks around doors and windows with caulk and steel wool will also help to keep pests out.
Contact Frontino Pest Co. in Phoenix
If you think you have stumbled across a pest infestation after a major storm, call a qualified Arizona pest control company like Frontino Pest Co. to perform an inspection and receive appropriate treatment. Book your appointment now when you contact us at 602-338-9223.