By Magnolia 
Urban density, nearby parks, and seasonal shifts – All of these create pest issues for Arlington homes. Homes near Ballston, Clarendon, and Rosslyn are prone to roach and rodent problems due to closeness to restaurants and old buildings, while neighborhoods close to Four Mile Run, Potomac River, and Lubber Run Park have mosquitoes, ants, and termites.
Once you see pests inside your home, you don’t have a choice but to get a professional service. One of the best-rated exterminators in Arlington, Green Pest Services currently offers same-day services and follows eco-friendly practices for containing infestations. In this guide, we are further discussing steps you can take to protect your home from common pests.
Avoid DIY Battles
It is common for people to feel excited about DIY ideas, supermarket products, and sprays that promise to get rid of bugs and insects. However, DIY is riskier than you think. You may kill a few ants in the kitchen, but the product will never fix the hidden colonies. Unless you tackle the source of infestations, pests will continue to grow in numbers. Also, when one product or hack doesn’t work, you will continue to waste both money and resources.
Seal Gaps and Cracks
Many old homes in Clarendon and Lyon Village have gaps, holes, and cracks in foundations and walls, which offer easy pathways for rodents and ants. You have to ensure there are no entry points, because all species need a way to get inside. However, if you already have an infestation and fix the gaps and holes, you could worsen the infestation.
Control Moisture
Summers in Arlington are humid, while the spring season often brings rain. Moisture is exactly what pests need to grow, and you have to find ways to contain that. First, ensure your basements and crawl spaces are clean and free of dampness, for which you can use dehumidifiers. Next, check if there are leaky faucets and pipes and address all plumbing problems. In the exteriors, ensure you don’t have standing water in the yard or in containers.
Food and Trash Management
This is a straightforward suggestion. Unless you keep trash and food sources out of reach, pests will continue to damage your home. Make sure you dispose of kitchen waste effectively, and if your trash cans don’t have secure lids, you can consider replacing them. Don’t leave bird feeders and pet food bowls in the open. In the kitchen, ensure pantry stuff is stored in sealed containers.
Landscaping and Yard Care
Pests need a space to hide outside before getting in, which is why keeping the yard and garden clean is a must. Get landscaping services to maintain the exteriors, and if possible, get rid of overgrown shrubs, thick mulch beds, and unwanted vegetation. Yard maintenance will also ensure you don’t have problems in barns and sheds.
Routine Inspections
No matter whether you are concerned about termites or rodents, you have to schedule routine inspections. Many homes in Lyon Park and Arlington Ridge are prone to termites, and signs of infestation include mud tubes and shed body parts. If you let an exterminator inspect your home every season or more frequently if there are recurring infestations, you will spend less on remediation.
Takeaways
Pests will find a way to thrive, and as a homeowner, you have to be proactive and quick to address both seasonal infestations and unusual issues. Find a reliable pest control company in Arlington first, and let their experts take care of routine checks and preventive measures. You can always follow their advice to further remain vigilant to common pest problems. The good news is that technicians will always educate you about the dos and don’ts.