3 tips for autumn pest control

Abell Pest Control

As the weather cools, you'll probably see fewer pests than you did during the warmer months, but that doesn't mean they're all gone just yet. Some insects can actually come out in full force during the autumn, while others might seek refuge in your warm home. Here are some key tips to keep in mind as fall gets underway:

  1. Look out for cluster flies
    While house flies are common throughout the summer, a pest can appear when autumn comes around: cluster flies. According to Pennsylvania State University, cluster flies often enter residential homes looking for a place to spend the coming winter. These flies tend to be larger than house flies and are slightly more yellow in color. While they won't damage your home, the University reported that large numbers of cluster flies can leave unattractive and unsanitary flecks of droppings wherever they live. The best way to manage them is to locate points of entry and seal them immediately. Chemical pesticides are usually ineffective because they won't reach inside walls where the flies like to hide.
  2. Lay out sticky traps
    Sticky traps are an easy way to stop various insects from buzzing around your home. They can be especially effective for controlling small numbers of insects such as boxelder bugs, spiders and crickets. The University of Nebraska recommended placing traps in dark areas where those insects like to hide. Just remember to keep sticky traps away from areas where children and pets might come into contact with them. If sticky traps aren't enough to control pest populations, it might be time to call a professional pest control company to handle the infestation.
  3. Check your foundation
    In addition to insects, rodents are also capable of entering your home through small cracks. According to the Illinois Department of Health, mice can fit through any crack that you can fit a pencil in - that's as small as a quarter of an inch! To fill cracks in your home's foundation, use expanding foam epoxy. Not only will epoxy keep rodents out, it could even keep heat in your house and save you some money on your winter heating bills.You should also check your gutter system and ensure that it is keeping water away from your foundation. In the autumn, you could run the risk of water sitting near your home's foundation, freezing, and causing cracks to expand further. In the spring, that could lead to more pests entering your basement.


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Since 1924, Abell Pest Control has provided quality services, protecting our customers and their patrons from coast-to-coast. Our customers enjoy the expertise and resources of a national provider. Prouder yet, we are members of your community, ready to service your home or business 24/7.

We are reliable experts in pest control—experts who care. At Abell Pest Control, we bring experience, efficacy and knowledge to customers who are looking for a fast, safe and effective solution to their pest problem.

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