Buying a new home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a new set of responsibilities—like keeping it protected from unwanted guests. Pests such as ants, spiders, termites, and rodents don’t care how new or beautiful your Glen Carbon, IL home is; if they find a way in, they’ll settle in fast. Fortunately, with the right preventative steps, you can reduce the chances of an infestation and maintain a pest-free living space.
Start With a Thorough Inspection
Before moving in—or shortly after—you should schedule a professional pest inspection. While a general home inspection may catch obvious signs of pest problems, a trained pest control technician knows how to spot early warning signs like termite tunnels, droppings, or nesting materials. Finding issues early will help save you from having to make expensive repairs later on.
Seal All Possible Entry Points
Pests can easily get into your Glen Carbon, IL home. Mice only need a hole the size of a dime to get inside, and ants can slip through the smallest gaps. Take a walk around your home and check the foundation, siding, windows, and doors for any potential entry points. Weatherstripping or caulk should be used to seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, vents, and other areas pests might get in. Installing door sweeps and making sure screens are intact will also help keep insects out.
Eliminate Sources of Food and Water
Like people, pests are drawn to places where they can find food and water. Store pantry items in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills right away, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Ensure your garbage can lids are tightly secure and that you take out the garbage regularly. Leaky faucets and damp areas in basements, under sinks, or around appliances should be addressed quickly—moisture attracts everything from roaches to silverfish.
Keep the Yard in Check
Your outdoor space can be an open invitation to pests if not maintained properly. Trim bushes and tree limbs away from the house to reduce access points for insects and rodents. Don’t stack firewood or debris near the foundation, as these provide perfect hiding spots for pests. Clean out gutters regularly to prevent standing water, and consider using gravel or stone instead of mulch right next to the house, since mulch retains moisture and can attract termites.
Stay Consistent With Cleaning
A clean home doesn’t just feel better—it makes it harder for pests to thrive. Regular vacuuming, sweeping, and dusting help eliminate crumbs, hair, and skin cells that some pests feed on. Pay special attention to areas that often get overlooked, like behind appliances, under furniture, and around baseboards.
Consider Preventative Pest Control Services
Even if you don’t currently see any pests, a preventative treatment plan from a licensed pest control company can give you peace of mind. Professionals use safe and effective products that create a barrier around your home, making it less appealing and harder to access for unwanted critters.
Be sure to give American Termite & Pest Control if you need assistance keeping your new home in Glen Carbon, IL pest free.
