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How to keep pests out of your crawl space

Abell Pest Control

Most homeowners have a crawl space, or a small area in between the ground and your home. Normally, they're about 3 or 4 feet in height, which is why they are not easily accessible for humans. However, these spaces are accessible to pests that can easily crawl underground and make a home in your crawl space. These areas are often warm, as they are near pipes and heat ducts that lead to your home. It doesn't take a large opening for pests to wiggle their way into this space and possibly your home. Consider these tips to keep pests out of your crawl space.

Why pests like crawl spaces

For years, these areas have been prone to heat and moisture, which creates humidity and may cause wood to moisten and rot, Basement Repair noted. This development attracts carpenter ants and termites that begin to viciously eat at the wood in your crawl space. Because of the area they're in, this destruction can go one for years before a homeowner notices. Yet ants aren't the only ones that may occupy a crawl space. Rodents love them too, and will multiply quickly in their new home. In one year, mice may be able to produce six or seven litters. Hornets and wasps may also infiltrate crawl spaces and potentially get inside your home, which could lead to dangerous attacks or stings.

Why pests like crawl spaces

For years, these areas have been prone to heat and moisture, which creates humidity and may cause wood to moisten and rot, Basement Repair noted. This development attracts carpenter ants and termites that begin to viciously eat at the wood in your crawl space. Because of the area they're in, this destruction can go one for years before a homeowner notices. Yet ants aren't the only ones that may occupy a crawl space. Rodents love them too, and will multiply quickly in their new home. In one year, mice may be able to produce six or seven litters. Hornets and wasps may also infiltrate crawl spaces and potentially get inside your home, which could lead to dangerous attacks or stings.

Pest management tips

  • Encapsulate your crawl space: Since crawl spaces are known for developing a high moisture content, it's important you attempt to encapsulate your crawl space, Jes Work advised. This is a method used by some contractors that deals with various methods to keep moisture out. This includes helping prevent water from seeping into the home, guiding water drainage away from the structure, sealing off vents that let in heat and regulating the air so that humidity doesn't develop.

  • Clean the perimeter: Homes that have brush and flora directly lining the perimeter may be welcoming pests in without even knowing it, Do It Yourself stated. Hedges can keep in moisture and provide shelter for lonely pests. These shrubs also can loosen soil, which will make digging easier for pests.

  • Check frequently: Though you may believe that you're covered once, keeping pests out of your home is an ongoing process. Be sure to check your crawl space frequently for any leaks or signs of pests.


About the author:

Since 1924, Abell Pest Control has provided quality services, protecting our customers and their patrons from coast-to-coast. Our customers enjoy the expertise and resources of a national provider. Prouder yet, we are members of your community, ready to service your home or business 24/7.

We are reliable experts in pest control—experts who care. At Abell Pest Control, we bring experience, efficacy and knowledge to customers who are looking for a fast, safe and effective solution to their pest problem.

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