While getting your home ready for winter, you’ll want to take steps to prevent pests from entering the house as they flee cold weather.
Here are four access points to seal before the onset of winter.
1. Roof
Your roof should be inspected every year to check for broken or missing shingles, damaged downspouts and chimney boot disrepair.
Any of these problems could lead to an opening in your home’s ceilings or siding, especially if these areas are compromised.
Insects often build nests during the summer in areas near roof access points, and some species enter the home and remain hidden in walls while building larger nests or hives.
Birds and bats may nest in the chimney, so it is important to have an effective chimney cap in place and to keep the flue closed during cold weather except when using the fireplace.
2. Foundation
Walk around your home to study the foundation. Look for cracks, chips and openings that could lead into the residence.
Patch these entry points to keep mice, rats and small insects from burrowing into your basement when the temperatures drop.
Inspecting the foundation is important for another reason: no water should pool around your home, or it could weaken the foundation.
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