When considering pest control, it may be tempting to disregard the winter months. While pests may not be as active during frigid temperatures as they are in warm weather, they can remain an infestation risk. As outside temperatures cool down, pests often seek moisture, food, and warmth in interior spaces.
Interior spaces can become the perfect haven for pests to endure cool weather. Here’s why winter pest control is crucial.
1. Pests Seek Warmth and Shelter Indoors
As the temperature drops outside, insects and rodents search for more inviting places. Insulated walls, warm air, and abundant food sources inside become a prime target for rodents and insects.
Rodents, particularly rats and mice, are notorious for infesting homes in the winter. These pests can squeeze through tiny cracks and holes, seeking refuge in attics, basements, walls, and kitchens. Once inside, rodents can damage insulation, electrical wiring, and food supplies, and can also spread bacteria and diseases. Professional pest control for rodent problems will be your best defense for preventing mouse and rat infestations.
2. Pest Activity in the Cold
Visible signs of pest activity may decrease during winter months since some pests like cockroaches, can survive in a dormant state. But when pests seek refuge indoors for the winter, it can result in severe infestations in the spring. Keep a lookout in these common interior hiding spots for pests.
Winter pest control ensures that during the months when pests are less visible, you can prevent them from becoming an increasing concern throughout the entire year. Professional pest control services will target vulnerable areas, such as behind walls, crawl spaces, and basements.
3. Preventing Damage to Your Home or Business
Rodents in particular can inflict damage during the winter months. They are known to chew on anything they can easily access. Mice and rats can cause damage to furniture, clothing, and stored items as they search for food and nesting materials. If you suspect a rodent problem, an inspection to identify and remove rodent infestations will be your best course of action.
Other pests like termites and ants can wreak havoc damaging surrounding structures. These wood-destroying insects continue to feed on wood and other household materials during the winter and may cause significant damage to the structural integrity of your home or business. Winter pest control helps address these issues early, preventing severe damage before it escalates.
4. Preventing Health Risks
Pests don’t just inflict damage they can also pose serious health risks. Rodents, in particular, are known carriers of diseases such as leptospirosis, and salmonella. Their droppings, urine, and saliva can contaminate surfaces and food. Cockroach infestations are triggers for asthma and allergies, especially in children. They can spread bacteria and pathogens through their droppings, which can become airborne and contaminate indoor air quality.
Investing in winter pest control can significantly reduce the chances of encountering these health risks. Professional pest control technicians will treat potential breeding grounds to prevent pest infestations and reduce the risk of spreading diseases.
5. Cost Savings in the Long Run
Winter pest control is not just about removing pests; it’s also about preventing future infestations. By catching and addressing pest problems early, you can avoid the costs associated with repairing damage caused by rodents or termites. Routine pest inspections and treatments can save you from having to deal with larger, more expensive issues later on.
Professional pest control experts will provide preventative services, meaning pest problems are treated proactively, reducing the likelihood of infestations in your home or business. These ongoing treatments will protect you year-round, saving you time, money, and stress.
Hire Local Virginia Pest Control Services
While spring and summer are certainly the times when you may see peak pest activity, the reality is that pests don’t disappear with the cold weather. Winter can be an even more critical time for pest control. By addressing pest problems early, you can prevent potential damage, reduce health risks, and save on costly repairs. Don’t wait until you notice an infestation—take proactive steps this winter.
At Pest Solutions, our technicians are equipped with the products and tools needed to handle your pest concerns. Our custom service plans are designed to provide all that is needed to prevent and treat pest problems. Contact us at (804) 406-9606 for a free inspection or fill out our online contact form.