Animals always try to get into homes during the winter because it’s cold outside and they’re looking for a nice, warm place to stay. Our homes are perfect spots for them because we keep them warm and cozy. However, having animals stow away in your house is a disaster because they can wreak havoc. Here are some ways to stop animals from entering your home this winter.
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1. Check the Exterior of Your Home
Think of animals that are attempting to get into your home as the invaders while you’re the defender. Walk around the perimeter of your house and check to see if there are any cracks, holes, or other entryways animals could use to get into your home.
The cracks and holes don’t have to be large (mice, for example, are very small) so you’ll want to do a thorough search.
2. Double Check Doors and Windows
On top of checking the exterior of your home, also make sure you check your doors and windows. Firstly, you can check to see if you’re losing any heat, and secondly you can see if there are any cracks around them. Cracks are a perfect way for animals to get inside.
Make sure your doors and windows have screens on them, and if they do already, make sure there aren’t any rips in the screens. It’d be terrible to open up a window and to have a little critter get into your home that way.
3. Vents
Every home has air vents to allow air to escape. Usually, the vents are in the kitchen above the stove, where your dyer is, as well as on the roof. These vents are necessary to have and shouldn’t be blocked. However, they also shouldn’t be just wide-open holes that act as a doorway for animals to enter and exit. Put screens around these vents to ensure that air can still exit, but that no animals can get in.
4. The Attic
The attic is the perfect hideaway for bats, squirrels, and raccoons. It’s warm, out of the elements, and dark and cozy. Unless you have a large, obvious hole, it’ll be hard to spot one on your walk around the exterior of your house. The best way to check your attic is to go up into it and see if you can spot any holes. If there are any, you can plug them up.
5. Watch the Plants
Doorways are great entry points for animals into your home because they open so frequently. To help keep animals away from your door, make sure there aren’t any plants or bushes really close to it. It’s easy for an animal to hide in the plant or bush and then make a dash into your house when the door opens.
Keep plants and bushes one to two feet away from any doorways. This will give a clear line of sight to your door, and help keep animals at bay.
6. Be Vigilant
It’s important to remain vigilant at all times. When the temperature rises and falls, you’re more likely to get cracks and holes in your walls. Check your home regularly to ensure that everything is sealed up tight.
Animals will always try to find a way into your home in the winter. Stay on top of your home and be vigilant. Your awareness will help keep them out.
Do you need wildlife removal services? Request a quote today!