7 Smart Pest Prevention Tips Every Toronto Homeowner Should Know
Let’s talk about pests. Nobody wants them, but every homeowner in Toronto has to think about them. From raccoons and squirrels to ants, mice, and wasps, this city has its fair share of unwanted guests. The good news? With a few smart strategies and some regular maintenance, you can keep your home pest-free.
Here are 7 practical pest prevention tips every Toronto homeowner should be using.
1. Seal the Gaps in Your Home
Pests get into your home through the tiniest openings. Mice can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime, and bugs only need about a quarter inch to find their way in. Take a close look at your home’s exterior, especially around windows, doors, vents, and your foundation. Use caulking, weatherstripping, or steel wool to seal any gaps. It’s also important to check where utility pipes enter the home. These areas are often overlooked and are easy access points for pests.
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2. Don’t Invite Pests In With Food
Pests come looking for food and water, so keep things clean and unappealing to them. In your kitchen, wipe down surfaces regularly, don’t leave pet food out overnight, and store pantry items in airtight containers. Outside, make sure your garbage bins have secure, tight-fitting lids. Give your recycling a quick rinse before tossing it in the bin. These little changes make a big difference when it comes to keeping ants, rodents, and wasps out of your space.
3. Tidy Up Your Yard
Your yard could be attracting pests without you even realizing it. Overgrown bushes, piles of leaves, or stacked firewood can become nesting areas for all kinds of critters. Keep your lawn trimmed, move firewood away from the foundation, and trim back tree branches that hang over your roof. Raccoons and squirrels will use those branches like bridges to get onto your house.
Discover more essential tree and lawn care tips with this video next. Click here to watch!
4. Keep an Eye on Moisture Levels
Moisture is a big draw for pests like ants, silverfish, and even rodents. Clean out your gutters to make sure water is draining away from your home, and check for any leaky pipes or faucets that need fixing. If your basement feels damp, a dehumidifier can help reduce humidity and make the space less welcoming to bugs and rodents.
Are you dealing with a wet basement? Do you want to be proactive about moisture in your home? Watch our video: How to Prevent and Fix a Wet Basement right here.
5. Don’t Overlook the Roof
Raccoons on rooftops are more common than pigeons in Toronto. Your roof might be the most vulnerable part of your home if it’s not maintained. Inspect your soffits, fascia, and roof vents for damage or signs of entry. If you see areas that look chewed or pulled up, it might be time to install metal mesh to keep animals from tearing their way in.
6. Be Proactive Inside Your Home
Even if you haven’t seen signs of pests, it’s smart to take preventative measures indoors. Set traps in your basement or attic as a precaution. Try using natural deterrents like peppermint oil around baseboards or inside closets. Check behind appliances and inside cupboards for any droppings, chew marks, or nesting materials. A quick inspection every now and then can help catch an issue before it becomes a full-blown problem.
Planning a renovation? Watch our video: Toronto Renovation Permits right here.
7. When to Call in the Professionals
Sometimes, DIY methods aren’t enough. If you’ve been seeing signs of pest activity or you just want peace of mind, hiring a licensed pest control company is a smart move. They can do a thorough inspection, spot entry points you might have missed, and provide safe and effective treatment plans. In a city like Toronto, where pests are common, an expert can help keep your home protected year-round.
Stay Ahead of the Pests
In a city like ours, it’s not a matter of if pests will show up, but when. With regular upkeep and these seven simple steps, you can stay ahead and keep your home safe and comfortable for your family — and not for uninvited guests.
Do you have questions about buying or selling real estate in Toronto? Get in touch with us today by filling out the form on this page, calling 416-909-9235, or emailing info@yaelandco.com.
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