Pest entry points are any openings, gaps, or cracks in a home's exterior or interior that pests can use to get inside, such as gaps around windows and doors, cracks in the foundation, openings for utility lines and vents, damaged screens, and unsealed chimneys or attic openings. Sealing these points with caulk, weatherstripping, and repairing screens is crucial for preventing infestations.
Common Entry Points
Doors and Windows:
Gaps under doors, loose or damaged weatherstripping, and cracked caulk around window frames are common entry points for various pests.
Foundation and Walls:
Small cracks and gaps in the foundation or siding can allow ants, spiders, and rodents to enter the home.
Utility Lines and Vents:
Gaps around pipes, electrical wires, dryer vents, and other utility lines are prime entry points for pests.
Roofline and Attic:
Damaged or loose soffits, damaged eaves, and gaps where the roof meets the siding can provide access. Chimney caps and attic vent screens that are missing or damaged can also let in bats, birds, and squirrels.
Garages:
Unsealed gaps around garage doors can allow pests to enter the garage and then potentially the house.
Drains:
Laundry room floor drains can provide a pathway for pests, especially those seeking a dark, damp environment.
Firewood and Landscaping:
Firewood can carry pests indoors, and overgrown landscaping near the house can act as a "bug bridge".
Common Entry Points
Doors and Windows:
Gaps under doors, loose or damaged weatherstripping, and cracked caulk around window frames are common entry points for various pests.
Foundation and Walls:
Small cracks and gaps in the foundation or siding can allow ants, spiders, and rodents to enter the home.
Utility Lines and Vents:
Gaps around pipes, electrical wires, dryer vents, and other utility lines are prime entry points for pests.
Roofline and Attic:
Damaged or loose soffits, damaged eaves, and gaps where the roof meets the siding can provide access. Chimney caps and attic vent screens that are missing or damaged can also let in bats, birds, and squirrels.
Garages:
Unsealed gaps around garage doors can allow pests to enter the garage and then potentially the house.
Drains:
Laundry room floor drains can provide a pathway for pests, especially those seeking a dark, damp environment.
Firewood and Landscaping:
Firewood can carry pests indoors, and overgrown landscaping near the house can act as a "bug bridge".
