As the days become shorter and colder, we humans begin getting ready for winter, getting warm clothes out of storage and making sure the furnace will work. But as we want to stay warm when the temperature drops, animals do too. And just like us, they look at our homes as a refuge from winter.

Animals, like mice, rats, and squirrels, are notorious for locating seemingly impossible openings in homes and making their way in. However, by making sure your house has no unintended openings, you can make it harder for wildlife to get inside.

Keys to Inspecting Your Home

During daylight hours, thoroughly examine your home, keeping a list of any repairs needed. Start on the outside, walking around the entire structure. Do you see any gaps in the foundation? Is the crawlspace secure? Are there any gaps around any cables leading into your home? Check your window and door frames for gaps.

These openings may seem small, but a mouse can squeeze its head through a dime-sized opening, so any gaps are an invitation.

Next, take a look at your yard. Do you have any trees or bushes that rest against the house? These can provide an easy way for squirrels to climb to the top of your home and search for openings in the fascia or roof.  Next, see if your garbage can is near your home. While you may have it there for convenience sake, the presence of food encourages wildlife to come to your back door for a snack.

The next place to examine is the roof. If you are comfortable and have the equipment to safely reach your roof, go up and examine for any openings or gaps. Check the chimney to ensure the chimney cap is securely in place.

Once you have examined the outside of your home, begin an examination inside. Here too, check window and door frames for gaps. Not only are these areas where critters can come in, but they are also areas where you lose insulation, making it difficult to keep your home warm.

If you have an attic or basement, carefully examine these for any signs of pests or openings.

With your list complete, take the time to thoroughly patch, fill, screen in or repair any areas that make your home vulnerable to pests.

Winter prep, done well, can be an extensive job. At Critter Control of the Triangle, many of our customers contact us to help because they don’t want to risk missing a hole or gap. Some don’t have ladders long enough to allow them to get to the roof, or, understandably, don’t feel comfortable taking on that job. Some don’t want to take the chance of coming face to face with unexpected wildlife.

We understand that. Our wildlife control specialists are experienced at examining homes, identifying and mitigating existing and potential pest problems so your home stays safe, and free of any guests you didn’t invite in. For more information on the best ways to prepare your home for winter, call Critter Control at 1-800-CRITTER or 919-382-0651 in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Apex, Wake Forest, Morrisville and the Triangle, Wake County areas.