As winter sets in, we bundle up, turn up the heat, and cozy into our homes. But we’re not the only ones looking for warmth. Every year, as temperatures drop, pests like mice, spiders, and cockroaches seek shelter indoors, hiding in cracks, basements, and any cozy crevice they can find.
For Michael, the owner of DLS Pest Solutions, this season is the busiest because it’s not just us who want to escape the cold—pests do too, and they’re already making themselves comfortable in Westchester, Scarsdale, Yonkers, and White Plains homes.
What Pests Move In for Winter?
You might not think of pests as seasonal, but just like us, they have survival tactics. Cold-sensitive pests take advantage of every open opportunity, literally, and make themselves at home in spaces we don’t often see. Here are the winter’s top “houseguests”:
- Rodents: Mice and rats slip through tiny cracks in foundations or door frames to access warmth and food.
- Spiders: Although mostly harmless, spiders love basements and attics where they can spin webs undisturbed.
- Cockroaches: These resilient insects seek out warmth and moisture, often found near heating systems or pipes.
- Cluster Flies: These flies may seem like summer insects, but they’ll settle in walls and attics during winter, waiting for warmer weather.
For DLS Pest Solutions and Michael’s team, winter pest calls are common—and often surprising for homeowners, who may not notice these visitors until they’ve settled in.
The Importance of Winter Pest Proofing
Many people think pest control is only a summer concern, but winter is one of the most critical times to secure your home. DLS Pest Solutions emphasizes proactive pest proofing to help homeowners avoid costly infestations. Here’s what winter-proofing can involve:
- Sealing Entry Points: Pests exploit even the tiniest cracks. Michael’s team checks door seals, foundation cracks, and window frames for openings.
- Clearing Clutter: Pests love undisturbed areas, so tidying up garages, basements, and attics can prevent them from finding easy shelter.
- Reducing Moisture: Keeping basements dry and fixing leaks can make your home less attractive to pests that rely on damp conditions.
- Proper Storage: Storing food in airtight containers and taking out trash regularly discourages pests from sticking around.
These winter-proofing strategies are key to ensuring your home is safe from unwelcome intruders.
How Winter Pests Can Cause Damage
Once inside, pests don’t just hide—they can cause extensive damage. Here are a few ways winter pests can make their presence felt:
- Rodent Gnawing: Mice and rats have constantly growing teeth and need to chew to keep them in check. They can gnaw through insulation, electrical wires, and even drywall, posing fire risks and structural damage.
- Cockroach Contamination: Cockroaches carry bacteria on their legs and bodies, contaminating food and surfaces. They can exacerbate asthma and allergies, especially in children.
- Spider Infestations: While most spiders are harmless, some types can cause skin irritation, and their webs can quickly become an unsightly nuisance in storage areas and basements.
Michael and the team at DLS Pest Solutions have seen firsthand how easily a few small pests can lead to big problems. This winter, they’re helping homeowners stay ahead with inspections and tailored pest control solutions designed to keep pests out for good.
Long-Term Solutions with Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Rather than relying solely on chemical treatments, DLS Pest Solutions practices Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to keep pests away safely and sustainably. This approach combines prevention with targeted control strategies, ensuring minimal disruption to your home and the environment. Here’s how IPM works during winter:
- Monitoring for Early Detection: DLS Pest Solutions uses monitoring stations to detect pest activity early, reducing the need for extensive treatments.
- Tailored Exclusion Methods: Using methods like steel wool and caulk to block entry points, Michael’s team prevents pests from getting inside in the first place.
- Minimal, Targeted Treatments: When necessary, pest treatments are applied strategically to avoid any unnecessary exposure to chemicals.
For homeowners in Westchester and surrounding areas, DLS Pest Solutions offers peace of mind by protecting homes with IPM strategies that stop winter pests in their tracks.
Enjoy a Pest-Free Winter
While we cozy up indoors, pests are looking to do the same. This winter, take proactive steps to keep your home safe from these hidden guests. With DLS Pest Solutions’s expertise and Michael’s dedication to protecting homes, you can enjoy the season without the worry of unwanted winter roommates.
