In April, organizations across the country observe National Pest Management Month for its role in helping homeowners and business owners protect their health, food, and property from common pests. The one thing pests need to thrive, more than anything else, is for residents and business professionals to be unaware of the measures that work to control them. Here are some helpful pest-proofing tips that National Pest Management experts and professionals here at Russell’s Pest Control recommend. Consider sharing them on social media to help spread awareness and stop pests from thriving in Knoxville and the surrounding area.

• Eliminate all sources of standing water around the foundation perimeter of your home, including clogged gutters, compacted soil, and plumbing leaks to reduce biting mosquito populations.

• Do an inspection of your exterior and use a caulking gun to seal cracks, gaps, and holes. Look closely around utilities, pipes, and door frames.

• Replace weather stripping and door sweeps on doors that have gaps.

• Repair loose mortar around the foundation of your home, especially around windows and doors.

• Trim tree branches and shrubbery away from your home. Branches that hang over your roofline or touch your home can be highways for pests.

• Fix fascia, soffits and rotted roof shingles. Many pests get on your roof in search of vulnerabilities.

• Keep mulch at least 15 inches away from your foundation walls.

• Ventilate your basement, cellar, and attic spaces and install dehumidifiers, where necessary, to reduce moisture that pests need to survive in your home.

• Store all garbage in containers that have a lid and dispose of your trash regularly.

• Do a routine cleaning of trash receptacles to reduce the smells that can attract pests.

• Avoid leaving pet food on the floor or ground for long periods of time.

• Consider partnering with a pest control professional to establish a protective barrier around your home and to provide ongoing pest control support for the health of your family and the protection of your property.

April is the beginning of the warm weather in Knoxville that leads to increased pest activity. Take steps to reduce the conditions that attract pests to your home and seal entry points to make it harder for bugs and animals to accidentally get into your home.

For more information or to schedule service for your Greater Knoxville home, contacts us for a consultation. Russell’s Pest Control is an industry leader. We can give you the support you need to keep pests out.