HOMEOWNER GUIDE


Sterling Pest Management, Inc.

Proudly Serving Tampa Bay since 1988


There are many things you can do to help prevent pests from getting into your home. Here are some key suggestions and recommendations for homeowners:


INDOOR PEST PREVENTION TIPS:

  • SEAL DOORS -
    • Make sure all doors to the outside are well sealed.
    • If light can be seen from around or under a door, then insects can gain access into your home.
  • AC FILTERS -
    • Keep air conditioning filters clean and thermostats properly adjusted.
    • Prevents mold and mildew build-up that will attract tiny insects.
  • PLUMBING -
    • Check for plumbing leaks and seal off gaps around plumbing pipes behind cabinetry.
    • Don’t let  water accumulate anywhere in or around your home.
  • GROUTING -
    • Check grout around bathtubs and toilets.
    • A good caulk seal will assure small insects such as  silverfish and ants cannot enter these locations.
  • ATTIC - 
    • Check the attic for water in the drip pan
    • Check for unnecessary clutter and to ensure gable vents are  screened.
  • FOOD STORAGE -  
    • Store all open food containers in tightly sealed containers or in the refrigerator.
    •  Don’t leave pet food or water out overnight.
    •  Check for pests hiding in bags or boxes before carrying them inside your home.

OUTDOOR PEST PREVENTION TIPS TIPS:

  • PRUNE VEGETATION TOUCHING THE HOUSE -
    • Pay close attention to the eaves or the roof.
    • Vegetation creates a highway for insect access.
  • REPAIR TORN SCREENS
    • Anywhere on property to prevent insect entry.
  •  SOFFITS - 
    • Seal around soffits and gable vents to ensure rodents and insects can’t gain access to the roof or attic space.
  • CONDUITS & PIPING -
    • Seal around conduits and piping where it enters the structure.
    • Many insects and rodents follow power lines or climb conduits and pipes to gain access to the home.
  •  GUTTERS -
    • Check gutter drains to ensure water is diverted away from the home.
    • Base of gutter should drain water away from the foundation to discourage moisture build-up next to the home.
    • Remove accumulated leaf litter from rain gutters and roofs to prevent ants and other insects from breeding under the build-up.
  • CAULK -
    • Caulk all cracks and crevices (i.e. under window frames or around pipes entering the side of the home) to prevent insect entry.
  • GARAGE -
    • Keep garbage cans clean and lids sealed to prevent ants, roaches and flies from feeding and breeding in the garbage.
    • Keep the garage door closed and make sure that the weather-stripping along the base of the door is in good repair.
  • REMOVE DEBRIS -
    • Remove debris, clutter or woodpiles away from your home’s foundation.
    • Discourages rodent nesting or insect colonization next to the home.
  • FOUNDATION -
    • Check irrigation system to be sure there is no puddling near the foundation or spraying onto the home.
    •  Divert the drip line from the air conditioner at least 2 feet away from the foundation.