7 Tips to Keep Pests Away from the Crawl Space

If not properly maintained, a crawl space can become a haven to unwanted pests and rodents. They can provide everything that an animal could need such as shelter, warmth, water, food, and more. Since most crawl spaces are three to four feet in height, they’re not easily accessible to humans like they are to critters. Given this, it’s important to make routine visits underneath your home to ensure that everything is in order and that there are no signs of unwanted crawl space pests or rodents.

Signs of pests in the crawl space

The most obvious sign of having pests in the crawl space is a visual sighting of the critter. Another visual sign that can be indicative of pest/rodent activity is standing water. Not only can standing water lead to mold, mildew, or wood rot, but it can invite pests into the crawl space.

Other signs of pest/rodent activity include squeaking or scurrying sounds and unpleasant odors. Some less obvious signs include open vents and pathways that lead to the crawl space. These provide the pests/rodents with direct access to the crawl space. Although you may not see an animal come through the pathway with your own eyes, it doesn’t mean that they’re not using it.

If you’re looking to keep unwanted pests and rodents away from your crawl space, here are 7 tips:

1. Cut off any food supply: This is one of the more obvious tips. Any food items in the crawl space will act as bait for unwanted pests & rodents.
2. Repair foundations racks: Cracks in the foundation can provide critters a direct pathway to the crawl space. Over time, small cracks can turn into bigger cracks so it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible.
3. Install a vapor barrier: A vapor barrier will act as a shield in your crawl space and make sure that whatever is outside stays outside. In addition to pests & rodents this includes unwanted moisture. 
4. Insulate plumbing pipes: Any and all pipes that are running water through the crawl space can provide critters in the crawl space with the water they need. In addition to this, any pipe leaks can later lead to mold or mildew growth. When the crawl space pipes are insulated, any moisture that is in the area will not cause them to rust and leak. 
5. Close the foundation vents: Foundation vents are designed to push hot, humid air out of the home. However, during times with high humidity, the humid air can rise to create moisture in the crawl space. To keep the moisture at bay, you can close the vents when the humidity levels are high. Once moisture is in the crawl space, mold and unwanted pests are lurking just around the corner.
6. Replace the crawl space screen: Pests & rodents can take advantage of broken or missing crawl space screens and use them as an entrance to the home. Make sure to routinely inspect your crawl space screen to ensure that it’s in good condition.
7. Replace/update your insulation: Over time, insulation in the crawl space can become worn and start to sag. This is attractive to pests & rodents because it can provide them with shelter and warmth. If your insulation has become worn out, it’s a good idea to replace it to keep pests away and help your energy costs.

What happens if pests already got in my crawl space?

Unwanted pests are more than a nuisance—they can be a real threat to your property and potentially your health. That is why managed pest control is so important. We offer a number of specially tailored treatment and services plans to fit every budget. Our multi-year service plans afford you the utmost in home protection and the great PEACE OF MIND that comes from knowing that your family and home are protected for years to come.

Call the pros at Jersey Shore Pest Control today to learn more or schedule your next pest control service!