Are Indoor Pests Worse in Winter? What Raleigh Homeowners Should Know
Pest infestations can strike at any time of year, but there are certain times when they seem to happen more often. Homeowners in Raleigh often notice a sudden increase in pest activity when temperatures drop in late fall going into winter. Rodent infestations, in particular, seem to be very common during winter. In this guide, we'll explore why indoor pest problems seem worse in winter and what pests you should watch out for during the colder months.
Why We See More Indoor Pest Activity During Winter
Winters in Raleigh are milder than in many parts of the country, meaning that insects don't die off, but instead seek shelter. Both insects and rodents are especially drawn to our homes during winter because they're warm, sheltered against rain and snow, and contain sources of food and water which are often harder to find at this time of year. This is why indoor pest infestations are so common during winter months. There aren't necessarily more pests around, but they are more likely to invade your home.
Common Winter Pests in Raleigh Homes
Rodents
Cold weather pushes rodents to seek warmth, food, and shelter that has suddenly become scarce outside. Our homes offer these essential things that mice and rats need to survive winter. Oftentimes, rodents will invade remote areas of Raleigh homes such as the garage, attic, and crawlspace, where they can cause damage by gnawing on wires and insulation.
Look for these signs of indoor rodent activity in your Raleigh home during winter:
Scratching or squeaking sounds coming from your walls or ceiling.
Small droppings, especially in remote areas like the attic and garage.
Gnawing damage on food packaging, wires, drywall, or wood.
Grease marks along walls and baseboards.
Rodent nests made from shredded insulation, fabric, grass, and other materials.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches thrive in warm, moist places, and they become particularly desperate to hide in such places during the winter. Homeowners in Raleigh often discover roaches swarming around appliances such as sinks, dishwashers, and water heaters during winter months. Local cockroach species that often infest homes in winter include American, German, and oriental cockroaches.
A cockroach infestation in your kitchen or bathroom can spread allergens and bacteria that trigger asthma and make your family sick. These health risks are heightened in winter, since Raleigh homes tend to be tightly sealed all day long, with no windows or doors left open.
Ants
While indoor ant infestations in Raleigh tend to be more of an issue in spring and summer, they can persist into winter. Although ant colonies normally slow down in cold weather, indoor warmth can reactivate foraging behaviors, causing ants to swarm in any areas where they can find food or water – especially the kitchen. Some ant species, like Argentine ants and odorous house ants, are notorious winter invaders in our area.
During winter, ants are often attracted into Raleigh homes by:
Crumbs and spills on the floor that ants can forage from.
Moisture accumulation under sinks, in bathrooms, and around windows.
Heat from appliances or water pipes, which ant colonies may build their nests near.
How to Pest-Proof Your Raleigh Home in Winter
Seal off possible pest entry points. Applying caulk or sealing foam to gaps and cracks around your foundation, windows, and doors will make it more difficult for insects to get in during winter.
Resolve moisture issues in your basement, kitchen, and bathrooms. A dripping pipe or humid air seeping from a dishwasher can be enough to attract rodents and insects inside.
Store food in tightly sealed containers. This is good pest prevention practice at all times of year, but is especially important in winter, when easy sources of food become more attractive to hungry bugs and rodents.
Avoid storing firewood piles right outside your home. These piles are very appealing as shelter to rodents and insects, which may then begin invading your home.
Professional Pest Control Solutions in Raleigh
If you're concerned about recurring pest issues in your home during winter, your smartest option is to invest in professional pest control. Contact Sustainable Pest Systems today if you're interested in eco-friendly pest control services for your home in the greater Raleigh area!