Pest infestation are common during warm seasons, and desert summers in Scottsdale. It is because humid and wet environments attract pests.
In the winter months, pest pressure lessens in Scottsdale due to the cold temperatures and lack of moisture. However, you should still practice winter pest-proofing to keep your home or business free from pests year-round.
Common Winter Pests and Insects
Before we go to some tips on winter pest control, let us first look at some of the common pests present in Scottsdale:
Bed bugs
These critters are not mainly affected by winter temperatures, so they can still be a problem in Scottsdale. Signs of bed bug infestation include black spots, shed skins, and egg casings.
Cockroaches
These bugs like to hide in dark, warm areas and can survive cold temperatures. They are likely to infest inside homes or businesses if they can find food, warmth, and shelter. Signs of a cockroach infestation include odors, droppings, and egg cases.
Termites
These wood-eating insects can cause extensive damage to any structure. Since they tend to be attracted to the wood in winter, it’s important to check for signs of infestation such as mud tubes and damaged wood.
Carpet beetles
Another home invader during cold weather, carpet beetles usually infest in small numbers and can cause damage to carpets, furniture, and other fabrics.
Carpenter ants
Carpenter ants are also winter insects that need to be monitored. Signs of their presence are sawdust piles, hollowed wood, and ant trails.
Tips To Prevent Pests During Winter
Now that you have an idea of what the common winter pests in Scottsdale are, here are some tips you can do to prevent these pests from entering your home or business in the winter season:
Keep Your Crawl Spaces, Attic, and Basement Dry.
These areas are likely to attract pests if they are moist and dark. Ensure that these areas are moist-free, and repair any water leaks immediately.
Replace Loose Mortar and Install Weather Stripping in Your Basement and Windows.
Mortars are used to fill in the gaps between bricks. Filling any existing cracks will make your home less attractive to pests. Installing weather stripping around the basement foundation is effective in blocking unwanted flying insects and pests. Without such, pests can easily gain access to your home.
Do Not Leave Food Outside or Allow Pets to Roam Free
Pests are attracted to food and will try to scavenge for it during the winter months. Make sure that any outdoor areas have available food sources locked away. Keep pet foods inside and do not leave pet food bowls outside overnight.
Install Door Sweeps and Window Screens
Door sweeps and window screens can help reduce pest problems. Ensure that door and window frames are fitted with tight-fitting door sweeps and high-quality window screens to prevent pests from entering your home or business premises.
Hire Professional Pest Control
Pest control services are often recommended, especially for major infestations. It can be anything from cockroach infestations, and termites, to bed bugs.
Professional pest control experts know their craft and can identify and remove pests within your premises with the help of effective treatments.
The Bottom Line
While winter pest control in Scottsdale may be challenging during the cold months, there are still steps you can take to ensure that your home or business is pest-proof.
By following the tips mentioned above, you should be able to reduce the chances of pest infestations and keep your premises safe from unwanted critters.
If you need pest control in Scottsdale, contact Arizona Pest Solutions. We offer consultations and effective pest control solutions for residential and commercial properties.
Need a guide for DIY pest control? Feel free to read our article “Can I Do My Own Pest Control” to learn more.
