As the new year begins in Northern Ohio and Southeast Michigan, the deepest chill of winter often arrives with January. While you are focusing on your resolutions, local pests like rodents and insects are focused on one thing: finding a warm place to survive the freeze. At Frame's Pest Control, Inc., we have spent over 50 years helping our neighbors secure their properties against these winter invaders. Since pests don't take a holiday break, January is the perfect time to ensure your home remains a fortress against uninvited guests.
Why Pests Love Your Home in Winter
The harsh January temperatures drive many creatures to seek the consistent warmth of your climate-controlled living space. Your home offers more than just heat; it provides a sanctuary with easy access to water and food crumbs that are scarce in the frozen outdoors. Understanding that your home is a target is the first step in effective seasonal prevention.
Mice and rats are common winter culprits, capable of squeezing through openings as small as a dime to escape the snow. Once inside, they can cause structural damage and pose health risks to your family. Similarly, insects and even wildlife like raccoons or squirrels may attempt to nest in your attic or crawlspace to survive the season.
Essential Steps for a Pest-Free Winter
Taking a few proactive steps this month can prevent a major infestation before spring arrives.
Seal Entry Points
The most effective way to keep pests out is to eliminate their front door. Walk around your home and look for any gaps where cold air—and pests—might enter.
Use high-quality sealant to plug cracks around the foundation and utility pipe entries.
Inspect the weatherstripping on your doors to ensure a tight seal against the threshold.
Check that attic vents and chimneys are properly screened to block wildlife and stinging insects from nesting.
Manage Landscaping and Exterior Clutter
Even in the snow, the perimeter of your home needs attention to discourage pests from loitering near your walls.
Trim back any frozen tree branches that touch your roof, as these act as bridges for rodents.
Keep firewood piles at least 20 feet away from the house to avoid providing a high-rise apartment for mice.
Clear away any lingering leaf litter or debris from the foundation where insects might overwinter.
Address Food and Water Sources
Pests will stay where they can eat, so removing their "buffet" is key to making your home unattractive to them.
Store all dry pantry goods and pet food in airtight plastic or glass containers.
Ensure kitchen surfaces are wiped down daily to remove the small crumbs that sustain roaches and ants.
Fix any leaky pipes under sinks, as even a small drip provides necessary hydration for pests.
Professional Assistance for Ultimate Protection
January is an ideal time for a professional "check-up" to ensure your winterizing efforts are working. At Frame's Pest Control, Inc., our licensed technicians use EPA-approved products that are safe for your children and pets. We offer detailed inspections to find hidden nesting spots and provide customized treatments to eliminate any pests that have already made it inside. Protect your investment this year by calling us at (877) 803-5966 for a safe, pest-free home.