Your home is your sanctuary, and so the last thing you want is to be sharing it with unwanted guests and pests! Unfortunately, infestations can and do occur, despite our best efforts. These problems are usually best left to the professionals.
The good news is that there are steps you can take to help to prevent the likelihood of an infestation occurring, and reduce the chances of having to source a Portland ant exterminator at short notice!
Eliminate Leftovers
Ants, rats, and other pests are attracted to leftover foods, crumbs, and scraps which may be laying about. Prevent this by removing the source of the problem; use sealed Tupperware or jars to keep food fresh and remove the smell. This will offer less temptation for potential pests. Clean up any mess as soon as it occurs, rather than giving it a chance to linger. Jars and tubs should have rubber seals on lids to help make sure they are airtight. It is also a good idea to check any dry goods for worms or bugs before you bring them home to prevent the chances of you bringing pests into your home.
Take Out The Trash
Your trash can should have a lid and needs to be emptied regularly to prevent build up from having a chance to occur.
Keep Landscaping Controlled
Your external spaces are also useful for helping to manage any potential infestation. Pests such as rodents will use any possible entrance to make their way into your property, so it is a good idea to make sure there are no overhanging branches, trees, or bushes which could provide easy access. Thick foliage is also an ideal place for rats to build their nests, so try to thin them out as much as possible to allow you to easily see what is going on and prevent it from spreading.
Secure Your Space
In the same way, it is important that your home is secured—again, pests will use any possible opportunity to make their way in. Any holes or cracks need to be sorted as soon as you become aware of them.
This includes any vents, foundations, and brickwork, and all the above need to be professionally sealed and repaired. It is also a good idea to remove any spare or scrap wood, as these can be havens for termites or beetles, and to avoid using wood for your landscaping within your garden; gravel and rock can be a much easier and more practical option.
Remove Standing Water
Standing water can be a great breeding ground for some pests, so take the time to explore your property and make sure there are no buckets, blocked drains for gutters, or other areas where water can collect and stagnate. Any leaking faucets or pipes should also be addressed, as water can build up in these areas and attract pests. This is an easy way to prevent breeding and infestations from occurring in the first place.
