Preparing For Fall Pests

As the crisp air of fall settles in, many of us look forward to cozy nights, warm drinks, and the beauty of the changing seasons. Unfortunately, pests look forward to fall for a different reason. As temperatures drop, everything from insects to rodents begins searching for shelter—and your home is the perfect refuge. Taking steps now can save you from unwanted intruders during the colder months ahead.

The Pests to Watch Out For

Fall tends to bring a wave of pests indoors. Stink bugs, boxelder bugs, and ladybugs often cluster on sunny walls and then make their way inside to escape the cold. Rodents like mice and rats are also common offenders. They’re not only a nuisance but can cause real damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and even structural materials. Spiders and cluster flies may also become more noticeable this time of year, either seeking warmth or hiding in quiet corners of your home.

Sealing Up Your Home

One of the most effective steps you can take is to seal entry points. Pests don’t need much space to get inside—mice, for example, can squeeze through openings as small as a pencil. Check around windows, doors, utility lines, and your home’s foundation for cracks or gaps. Replacing worn-out door sweeps and repairing torn screens can make a big difference. Don’t forget less obvious access points like attic vents and chimneys, which should be covered with proper screens or caps.

Tidying the Outdoors

Your yard and the space around your home can either invite or deter pests. Piles of leaves, overgrown vegetation, or stacks of firewood close to the house create perfect hiding spots for insects and rodents. Raking regularly, trimming shrubs away from siding, and moving firewood at least twenty feet from your home all help reduce the chances of pests making their way indoors. Clearing gutters and making sure water isn’t pooling around your foundation will also cut down on the moisture that attracts many insects.

Keeping the Inside Less Inviting

Once pests are in, they’ll stay if they can find food, water, and hiding spots. That’s why a clean, organized home is a strong defense. Kitchens should be kept free of crumbs and spills, and pantry goods should be stored in sealed containers. In basements, attics, and garages, swap out cardboard boxes for sturdier plastic bins that pests can’t chew through. Regular vacuuming and decluttering help eliminate the quiet hiding spaces that insects and rodents love.

Managing Moisture

Moisture is one of the biggest attractants for pests. Fall is a good time to check for leaks under sinks, in basements, or around appliances. Dehumidifiers can help keep basements and garages dry, while proper ventilation in attics and crawl spaces reduces dampness that might otherwise draw pests.

Staying Ahead of the Problem

Even with the best prevention, pests can still find a way in. That’s why it’s important to stay alert to early signs of activity. Clusters of bugs on walls, droppings in hidden corners, or unexplained gnaw marks can all be indicators that it’s time to act quickly. The sooner you respond, the easier it is to keep the problem under control.

Count on Lincoln Pest Control

While many of these steps can go a long way in keeping your home pest-free, sometimes professional help is the safest and most effective solution. At Lincoln Pest Control, we specialize in keeping homes protected throughout every season. Our experts use proven methods tailored to the challenges of fall pests, so you can enjoy the season without worrying about uninvited guests.

Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.