Pests come in various sizes and shapes, ranging from small like a rat or mouse to tiny like termites and bedbugs. When planning a renovation or remodeling project, consider including elements in the design that will keep unwanted pests out of your home or prevent them from moving in.
Depending on the type of pests you might have in your home, some are capable of causing significant damage, especially rodent or termite infestations that get out of hand. With this in mind, it’s critical to consider what you can do to bug-proof your home.
1. Install Door And Window Screens
Most homeowners rely on natural ventilation through their windows and doors to allow fresh air into their homes. Although leaving the windows or doors open on summer days may seem practical, this is also the season when pests are more abundant and more likely to infiltrate your home.
You may want to install screens on your doors and windows to let fresh air in while keeping pests out, such as flies and mosquitoes. An option worth considering is retractable flyscreens since they impart an aesthetic element to your windows while protecting your home from pests all year round.
The fine-mesh screening will come in handy in preventing even the smallest insects from moving into your home. Inspect all screens regularly for holes and tears. If you discover any damage, make repairs or replace them as soon as possible.
2. Prepare The Construction Site
If you’re undertaking a major overhaul of your home, you should take the time to examine the construction site thoroughly. It’s critical to securely seal or demolish any old drainage or sewer system to make way for a new system.
Additionally, make it a priority to thoroughly clean the site to ensure there’s no leftover waste, especially in the foundations of your home. Any debris or waste left lying around will attract pests. Before you know it, you’ll be dealing with a pest problem.
3. Install Mesh On Crawl Space And Attic Vents
Certain pests like mice and rats, as well as other animals, such as squirrels, raccoons, and even birds, may decide to enter your home through the attic and crawl spaces. Unfortunately, nothing can stop them from entering if you don’t have any barriers.
Installing mesh on the crawl space and attic vents can help keep these pests out. Remember that these animals can bring along fleas, mites, and other pests that will likely result in an infestation in your home.
4. Cover All Gaps Or Crevices Completely
A house with gaps, especially from the exterior leading inside, will be an entry point for pests, especially rodents. Remember that rodents can chew almost any material, and mice can squeeze into the smallest hole or crevice to enter your home.
If you’re thinking about a major home renovation project, you should begin with the foundation. Opt for reinforced concrete at least six millimeters thick to prevent pests from infiltrating your home. If this isn’t feasible, you can go for sheet metal with an adequate thickness to be placed beneath the floor. With the strategic placement of reinforced concrete or sheet metal, rodents cannot access your home.
During your home’s construction, carefully monitor the progress and look for gaps or crevices. Remember that any opening, no matter how small, will serve as an entry point for pests. With this in mind, ensure they’re all sealed with expanding foam or caulking.
5. Seal All Doors Securely
Aside from sealing any gaps or crevices on your home’s exterior, you should also pay close attention to your doors. When doors leading to the outside have gaps, pests can enter through them.
Installing well-fitting thresholds and door sweeps at the base of all exterior doors is an excellent idea. You can add weatherstripping or use a sealing kit to the perimeter of the door frame to prevent pests from entering via the sides or top.
6. Protect The Electrical Components
As part of your renovation or remodel project, pay close attention to the electrical elements since they’re likely to end up with damage if rodents and other pests are around.
You may want to use conduit wiring to protect your wires, preferably those encased in steel mesh. This type of wiring will keep pests from causing any damage that could lead to a fire risk.
Final Thoughts
Pests will always be a concern for any homeowner. If you want to keep your home and family safe from the potential dangers and threats that pests bring, make it a priority to prevent them from entering in the first place. Consider these design options to keep your home pest and bug-free for years.