As temperatures around us change, so too do the behaviors of various pests that may attempt to invade our homes. Knowing which common pests to expect as temperatures drop and we head into the cold Utah winter can be quite helpful for preventing any issues.
At A-1 Exterminators, we’re proud to offer the best pest control services you’ll find in Salt Lake City, West Jordan, Sandy, West Valley City and nearby areas, including everything from ant control and boxelder bug control to rodent control, bed bug control, bird control and more. Here are some of the pest types to be most aware of as we head into the Utah winter, plus how to prevent them or deal with them if you’ve noticed them – with the help of our team of pest control specialists whenever necessary.
Termites
One of the most resilient pests out there, termites are happy to chew through anything from wood to cardboard and even metal sheeting if it means finding a warm place they can call home. Termites especially thrive in colder months when they seek shelter and warmth indoors.
The most common signs of termite infestation include weakened or hollow-sounding wood, mud tubes along walls or foundations, and piles of discarded wings near windows or doors. To prevent termites, keep any firewood or other wooden materials away from your house, fix any moisture issues as soon as possible, and have regular termite inspections carried out by professionals.
Rodents
Another pest that seeks shelter indoors during the winter is rodents. Mice and rats are notorious for squeezing through tiny cracks and crevices to find their way into homes, where they can cause damage and spread diseases. Look out for droppings, gnaw marks, and signs of nesting in hidden areas such as attics or basements.
To prevent rodents, seal up any holes or gaps around your home’s exterior, keep food storage areas clean and tidy, and consider setting up traps or contacting a pest control service if necessary.
Cockroaches
Speaking of resilience, cockroaches are another pest that can thrive in the colder months. These pesky insects love warm and humid environments, making our homes the perfect place for them to settle in. Cockroaches can enter through small cracks and live off of any available food sources.
To prevent cockroach infestations, keep your home clean and free of clutter, seal up any potential entry points, and make sure to properly dispose of any trash or food waste.
Bed Bugs
While bed bugs are a year-round concern, they tend to be more active during the winter when people are spending more time indoors. These tiny pests can easily hitchhike onto clothing or luggage and infest bedding or furniture. Signs of bed bug infestation include bites on skin, blood stains on sheets, and a musty or sweet odor in the room.
To prevent bed bugs, thoroughly check any used furniture or clothing before bringing them into your home, regularly wash and dry bedding at high temperatures to kill any potential bugs, and consider professional bed bug treatment if necessary.
General Prevention Tips
While we’ve gone over some tips in each section above, here are some broader tips for preventing pest infestations in general during the cold months:
- Seal up any cracks or holes around your home’s exterior
- Keep your home clean and free of clutter, especially in areas where pests are likely to hide (such as attics, basements, and closets)
- Regularly inspect and remove any potential sources of standing water or excess moisture
- Store food properly in sealed containers
- Maintain a clean and tidy yard, including regular yard waste removal
- Have regular pest inspections carried out by professionals
By following these tips and staying aware of common winter pests, you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from unwanted intruders.
When to Call in Professionals
Depending on the severity of a pest infestation, it may be necessary to call in professional pest control services. If you’re unsure about the extent of an infestation or have tried DIY methods without success, it’s best to contact a licensed and experienced pest control specialist for proper treatment and prevention. At A-1 Exterminators, our team has the knowledge and tools to effectively eliminate any pests from your home and prevent them from returning. Don’t let pests ruin your winter – contact us today for reliable pest control solutions around SLC, West Jordan, Sandy, West Valley City or any nearby area of Utah!
