Garage Pests
Megan Pinneo
Pests located in the Garage
Has any one noticed a bit of a warming trend and want to do a little Pre-Spring cleaning? Time to hit the garage and see what pests have been hiding away all winter. From annoying crickets to large rats, there can be a wide range of pests living in the garage. Before you start pulling bins and sweeping cobwebs, let’s go over what pests you may come in contact with and how to get rid of them.
Let’s start with SPIDERS. Ranging in different types we are destined to come across quite a few of them. Routine pest control practiced inside the home makes it hard for them to stay alive which is why they venture to the garage. Spiders often spin webs and lay eggs in the garage more so than a household since they can go unbothered.
If you store cardboard boxes in the garage you may find SILVER FISH. Females laying up to 3 eggs daily they grow in numbers quickly. Silver fish feed on paper, cardboard, flour, clothes and even meat. They often hid under boxes and in small cracks.
You hear that? CRICKETS. The are usually found more in the warmer months escaping from the heat, but with our Southern California weather don’t be surprised if you see or hear them hiding away in the garage.
RATS! Yes, we all know it, rodents often hide in the voids in walls, storage bins and even under the hoods of cars. They are usually seeking shelter from the colder weather so this is the time where they have most likely found shelter somewhere in the garage feeding on anything and everything you have stored.
Shoe Flies don’t bother me. Flies are attracted to strong orders and with most garages not being well ventilated it can easily attract them when garbage cans are stored there.
Why the garage?
Pests seek shelter and food in the garage because it is not as often visited by us. It is perfect for all kinds of pests to hide, eat and breed for longer periods of time. They can get the warmth that they may be seeking, food is usually accessible and they can go undetected for months at a time. With frequently opened garage doors they can easily scurry in from outside. Neglected wholes and cracks around the garages also leave perfect access for almost any size pest. A garage is used to store most items from sporting equipment, boxes to overstock on food, all providing either a place for them to hide or something for them to eat.
It’s their home away from OUR home.
How to get rid of pests in the garage, and keep them out.
Cleaning your garage is the first step in getting rid of the pests. Cleanliness is key! Pull out all bins, sweep out cracks, floors, walls and ceiling. Clear out trash and debris. Calling a Pest Control Professional is often recommended in securing your garage from pests in the future. However, there are measures that you can take after you have properly cleaned your garage.
Seal all cracks and check seals around windows and doors. Do not neglect to check the garage door seal also.
Do not store open trash in garage. If you must store garbage in the garage use a trash bin with a lid, but remember this usually cannot keep rodents away. Make sure the lid is properly covered and locked if possible. Steal containers are best so that rodents can not gnaw through it easily.
Avoid moisture. Run a dehumidifier if necessary after a rain or in areas of excessive moisture.
Check for leaking pipes. This goes along with avoiding moisture.
Declutter! Organize bins, and as you do so check inside of them to insure that there is not already an infestation present.
Keep any food items in properly sealed storage bins. Using clear bins is always a good option so that you can see inside regularly.
Pop the hood of your car every few days to make sure a pest hasn’t crawled inside.
Keep the garage and side doors shut when possible.
Use sticky paper or mouse trap if you feel necessary.
Call a Pest Control Professional. It’s one thing to clean and clear out your garage but often times it can be difficult to keep the pests outs entirely and all year long gets exhausting. A Professional has the skills, knowledge, and tools to get the job done and keep it done. Black Knight Pest Control offers several different options in pest control to meet everyones needs.
Conclusion
The garage can pose as a problem for home owners when pests dwell in them. It is important to keep it cleaned and decluttered all year long. Pests can cause extensive damage if gone unnoticed or untreated. Don’t let them call your garage home, practice good garage cleanliness and call a professional if needed.
Call Black Knight Pest Control about routine pest control service for your property today! 951.694.8100