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Outdoor structures like sheds, decks, patios, and gazebos add a lot of value to your property, offering both functionality and enjoyment. However, these spaces are often magnets for unwanted pests. From ants and spiders to larger intruders like rodents, pests can invade and damage your outdoor structures if not properly managed. With these tips, you can learn how to keep those areas pest-free year-round.
Inspect and Seal Entry Points
Pests can slip through the smallest cracks and openings. To stop them, begin by inspecting your outdoor structures for gaps in walls, loose boards, or torn screens. Pay special attention to areas where pipes or wires enter the structure, as these spaces can also act as entry points. Seal any openings with caulk, weatherstripping, or appropriate materials to create a secure barrier against pests.
For sheds or storage structures, ensure doors and windows close snugly without leaving gaps. If there’s any damage to the foundation, address it promptly to prevent crawling insects and rodents from tunneling inside.
Keep Surrounding Areas Clear
The environment around your outdoor structures can either attract or deter pests. Overgrown grass, bushes, or piles of debris near sheds or patios provide the perfect hiding spots for pests. Regularly maintain these areas by trimming back vegetation and removing clutter.
Woodpiles, a favorite hiding spot for termites and rodents, should be stored at least 20 feet away from outdoor structures and kept off the ground to prevent infestations.
Address Moisture Problems
Pests thrive in damp environments, which is why controlling moisture is crucial for pest prevention. Ensure your outdoor structures are well-ventilated to reduce humidity levels. If your shed or deck is prone to standing water, grade the soil around it to direct water away.
Clean out gutters and ensure downspouts direct water away from structures. Pests like mosquitoes can breed in as little as a bottle cap of standing water, so keep an eye out for any water collection points near outdoor areas.
Use Pest-Repellent Materials
Certain building and maintenance materials can make outdoor structures less inviting to pests. For example, when building or repairing a deck, opt for pressure-treated wood that’s resistant to termites and other wood-damaging insects. Use gravel or crushed stone around the base of sheds instead of mulch, which can attract ants, termites, and other insects.
If pests like birds or squirrels are an issue, consider using pest-proof mesh or netting to prevent them from nesting under eaves or within rafters.
Store Items Properly
What you store in your outdoor structures can attract pests if not managed correctly. For example, cardboard boxes provide the perfect nesting sites for insects and rodents alike. Instead, use plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.
Avoid storing food items or pet feed in sheds or garages as these quickly draw pests such as mice and raccoons. If you must store these items, ensure they’re in sealed, pest-proof containers.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Routine inspections of your outdoor spaces are the best way to catch pest problems early. Keep an eye out for signs of damage or infestation, such as droppings, chew marks, or unusual sounds. If you notice any signs of pests that you can’t handle on your own, it’s time to call in the experts.
Trust Professional Pest Control for Persistent Problems
Even with diligent efforts, outdoor structures can sometimes still attract pests. Persistent infestations often require the expertise of a professional pest control service. At Paske Pest Control & Wildlife Solutions, we specialize in providing tailored solutions to protect your outdoor spaces from a wide range of pests.
If pests are threatening to take over your outdoor structures, don’t wait. Contact Paske Pest Control & Wildlife Solutions today for reliable and professional pest control services. Together, we’ll ensure your sheds, patios, and decks remain safe and enjoyable, free from pests all year long. Reach out now to schedule an assessment!