Hi there, and welcome back to our blog. If you love springtime in West Lake Hills as much as we do, but could do without all the pest and rodents that become more active during this time of year, you’ll want to keep reading. In a recent post, we looked at an issue that many homeowners may not always consider when thinking about the structural integrity of their homes — the link between pests and common household plumbing problems. While insects and rodents are attracted to water sources in and around the home, these unwanted guests often cause plumbing issues in the home. As your Top Rated Local® plumbers in West Lake Hills, we are dedicated to providing you with information that can keep your plumbing systems functioning properly while also keeping you, your family, and your pets safe and comfortable in your homes. Here are a few springtime tips to consider to protect your home from pests and rodents who could cause or worsen plumbing issues in your home.
Seal Off Entryways
Spring is the perfect time for making small repairs to your home that can protect against invading insects and rodents. Walk around your house and survey the different exterior surfaces for openings that could allow pests into your home. Be sure to check your doorways for gaps in the trim and make any necessary repairs or replace damaged materials. Consider installing door sweeps on your doors to keep pests out. Use weather stripping to seal gaps in doors and windows. Repair or replace window and door screens with holes, tears, and other damage that could let bugs in. Seal larger openings with metal mesh, wood, and concrete. Be sure to wrap your vents (especially those on the roof) with protective screen meshing that can keep out squirrels and other climbing rodents.
Be Mindful Of Home Remodels
For large home remodels and smaller bathroom and kitchen updates, be sure to keep wooden structures dry. Termites are known to enter homes during new construction and remodel projects where they will establish colonies in wooden structures in a home. Other insects and rodents like mice and rats can find their way into homes if they aren’t sealed properly each day. Heavy plastic is a popular material used in construction projects to seal off openings in homes. The trouble here is that rodents can chew through the plastic to get into your home. They can even get in through open plumbing pipes that have been left unprotected while the work continues. It’s best to keep the foundation and other areas around a remodel dry, sealed, and free of organic debris that can attract pests.