Living in Toronto can be a wonderful experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges – namely, pests and wildlife. From raccoons on your doorstep to squirrels on your roof and ants in your kitchen, these creatures can cause serious stress and spread disease around your home. But don’t worry – this article will provide you with 10 Tips for a pest free home!
Your Pest Free Experience
‘Pest Free’ in Toronto may sound more like a pipe dream, but with our helpful tips you will be that much closer to making it a reality!
As a resident of Toronto, you know that keeping pests and wildlife at bay can be a challenge. The good news is, there are some proven ways that can help you keep your home pest free and your family safe.
Keep reading to check out our recommendations to help you live that pest free dream. Following these tips will help you stay one step ahead of pests, so you can enjoy a pest free experience in Toronto!
10 Tips for a pest free home:
What are the Common Pest & Wildlife in Toronto?
There are many common pest and wildlife issues that Toronto homeowners face. These include mice, rats, squirrels, raccoons, skunks, and opossums. Homeowners may also encounter birds, such as pigeons and sparrows. In addition, there are many insects that can be a nuisance, such as bed bugs, ants, cockroaches, flies, hornets & wasps.
10 Proven Ways To Help Keep Your Home & Yard Pest Free
- Inspect your home and property regularly for signs of activity.
- Repair any clear entry points or vulnerable areas around your home’s exterior.
- Replace, and cover wall vents, attic vents, and plumbing stacks with the appropriate material.
- Install screens on doors and windows and replace weather-stripping and door sweeps to seal gaps around doors and windows.
- Keep your home and yard clean and free of debris that could be used as harbourage for pests and wildlife.
- Plant native species that will help discourage pests & wildlife.
- Trim trees and shrubs away from your home and pick up any fallen fruit regularly.
- Utilize fencing and barriers to block access to your yard where possible.
- Install outdoor lighting, motion sensor is best to deter animals from visiting your property during the night.
- Store food in airtight containers and clean the interior of your home regularly, with a focus where food is prepared, stored and served.
Inspect Your Home and Yard Regularly to Stay Pest Free
As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to keep your property pest free. Regular inspections are key to identify potential problems early on, before they become infestations or cause damage to your home.
Start by walking around the perimeter of your property, looking for any gaps or holes that could provide an entry point for pests. Be sure to check eaves, windows, doors, and vents. If you find any openings, seal them up with caulk or another appropriate material.
Next, take a look at your landscaping. Keep vegetation trimmed away from the house, as overgrown bushes and trees can provide hiding places for pests and animals. Remove any dead leaves or debris that has accumulated on your property, as these can also attract unwanted guests.
Finally, inspect the inside of your home for signs of pests. Look for droppings in cabinets or under sinks, behind appliances, chewed electrical wiring, or holes in walls or floors. If you spot anything suspicious, contact our team at TruTech Pest And Wildlife Control right away to resolve the issue.
Seal Off Potential Entry Points to Keep Your Home Pest Free
The first step in keeping pests and wildlife at bay is to seal off potential entry points. Check your home for cracks and gaps, especially around doors and windows. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal any openings.
You should also install screens on doors and windows to keep insects out. Be sure to repair any holes or tears in screens. If you have a chimney, install a cap to prevent animals from getting inside. The best materials when completing a repair is galvanized mesh or stainless steel.
Finally, make sure that your garbage cans are sealed tight and that there is no food left out that could attract pests. By taking these simple steps, you can help keep your home pest free.
Keep Yards Clear of Debris and Standing Water to Stay Pest Free
The warmer months in Toronto are when most homeowners see an increase in pests and wildlife around their property. To help keep these unwanted guests at bay, follow these tips:
- Keep yards clear of debris and standing water. This provides potential homes for rodents and insects, and can attract other wildlife as well.
- Cut back overgrown vegetation. This will help to remove hiding spots for pests, and make it more difficult for them to access your home.
- Monitor your pet’s activity outdoors. Pets can bring pests into the home, so be sure to check them for ticks and fleas regularly. By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your home pest free all summer long!
Plant Native Species That Help Discourage Pests & Wildlife
It’s no secret that native plants are better for the environment than non-native species. Not only do they require less water and fertilizer, but they also support local wildlife and discourage pests. For example, red cedars: This evergreen tree is a favourite of birds and small mammals, but bed bugs, moths, cockroaches, ticks, other bugs tend to avoid it.
Utilize Fencing and Barriers To Block Access & Stay Pest Free
One of the best ways to keep pests and wildlife at bay is to utilize fencing and barriers. By creating a physical barrier, you can effectively block access to your home and property. e.g. Tall fences can stop deer & coyotes.
In addition to fences, there are other types of barriers that can be used to keep pests and wildlife at bay. For example, planting thorny bushes around the perimeter of your property can deter animals from entering your yard. You can also use motion-activated sprinklers or lights to scare away animals. Insecticide barriers can stop insects in their tracks, helping keep your home pest free.
Install Outdoor Lighting To Deter Animals From Visiting
One of the best ways to keep wildlife at bay is by installing exterior lights. This will deter animals from visiting your property, as they will not feel comfortable being exposed.
Additionally, you can also purchase motion-activated lights, which will startle animals and make them think twice about coming back and have the added benefit of not attracting flying insects when they are not in use.
