Why New Lisbon Homeowners Should Inspect Their Homes for Pests Before Winter

Taking the time to inspect your home before winter sets in can help limit pests' ability to get inside the house when seeking shelter from the cold. It can also clue you in to potential concerns for Springtime and the increased moisture that comes with snow melting. As fall transitions into winter, mornings can be quite chilly with frost on the ground, but afternoons may be mild enough to stir some pests into activity again. With guidance from Mosquito Squad Plus of La Crosse and an understanding of common household pests, homeowners can spot trouble before winter makes repairs more difficult.

Why New Lisbon's Fall Weather Makes Timing Important

New Lisbon typically experiences its first freezes in October, but colder nights don't necessarily end pest activity. Every pest is going to be driven by different factors when it comes to temperature changes. Rodents are primarily seeking warmth and accessible food, while stink bugs and some beetles are gathering on sun-warmed walls before seeking shelter indoors to maintain heat.

If you wait too long to inspect and make repairs, the first snowfall in New Lisbon can obscure potential entry points or damage and make them harder to repair. Snow may even obscure signs of pest activity, so taking time to identify these problem spots during September and October can make preparation and repairs easier. Opportunity to address the causes rather than dealing with unexplained noises in January.

Inspect Your Home Before the Snow Arrives

• Inspect door sweeps and weather stripping for damage- replace where necessary.
• Damaged window screens provide easy spots for asian lady beetles or stink bugs to slip inside.
• Garage doors should be checked for damage or worn-out seals where pests may intrude.
• Seal openings around pipes, vents, and foundation joints.
• Clear leaves from window wells, steps, and areas against siding.
• Store firewood and unused outdoor equipment away from exterior walls.

Look for Rodents Around Garages and Storage Areas

Signs you may have an active mouse problem include droppings, even after vacuuming, gnaw marks, or damaged items in storage areas. Remove or store pet food or pantry items in sealed containers to reduce drawing mice in.

Watch for Insects Seeking Winter Shelter

Stink bugs and boxelder bugs gather in large groups on a warmed surface on the exterior of the house. As temperatures drop, they will begin attempting entry into the building and hiding under trim and inside walls if possible. On milder days, you may see them emerge to take advantage of the warmer temperatures.

Don't Overlook the Yard and Seasonal Equipment

Leaf piles, brush, and dense vegetation near wooded yards can provide cover for ticks during milder autumn weather. Trim back landscaping and clear heavy brush, especially along paths, patios, and play areas. This can help limit places ticks may hide in wait for passing hosts. While the weather is mild, you can prepare for springtime activity and create a stone or gravel border around patios to break up travel paths for ticks.

Plan Pest Control Before Winter Sets In

If you have activity that persists after you've completed a fall inspection and repair, it may be time for our Lacrosse team to help out. Call (608) 514-9405 for a free quote and to discuss New Lisbon, WI pest control options.