When the weather cools, many of our Nashville pests get inside. It's not their fault. They're just doing what comes naturally. But that doesn't mean you have to let them. Let's take a look at a few of the pests that commonly get in during the fall and discuss some ways you can keep them out.
Stink Bugs
These shield-shaped, mottled grayish-brown insects leave the crop fields in the fall and start getting into man-made structures. If they get into your Nashville home, they can be frustrating to deal with. They are most known for the unpleasant smell they create when disturbed or crushed.
Box Elder Bugs
These oval-shaped bugs with their fiery orange and jet black coloration are definitely noticeable when they start crawling around on your home, especially when they gather by the hundreds or thousands. While they have the ability to bite, they're not known to do so. When they get inside, they may stain curtains, bedding, furniture, and fabrics.
Asian Lady Beetles
These insects are often called Halloween beetles due to their coloration and the time of year when they start to become a real problem. They climb all over screens, crunch underneath your feet when you walk to the door, and gather into piles in the corners of your door and window frames. These insects can sometimes bite. They also cause stains.
Prevention Tips
There are many differences between stink bugs, box elder bugs, and Asian lady beetles, but all of these pests are managed in the same ways.
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Do a detailed inspection of your exterior. Seal any gaps, cracks, or holes you find. A caulking gun can help you get this task accomplished.
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Inspect your exterior walls from inside your home. Examine around the outside of electrical outlets, switches, ceiling fans, light fixtures, window frames, door frames, and skylights. Seal any gaps you find.
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Make sure your screens, door sweeps, and weatherstripping are all working the way they should. If not, repair or replace them.
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Have your roofline and seals around roof penetrations inspected and repaired.
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If you have a chimney, consider having it capped.
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Reduce exterior lighting where it is not a security concern. Lights attract these insects.
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Replace exterior white bulbs with sodium vapor lights or yellow bulbs. This will reduce the attraction.
Mice and Rats
When temperatures drop, rodents start getting into Nashville homes more frequently. When they do, they don't usually stay permanently. They go in and out. This is not good. Rodents can cause damage to your home and your belongings. They spread harmful microorganisms and diseases. They drop ticks, fleas, and other parasites as they travel around. And, a rodent infestation will increase your chances of a house fire. Rodents chew on wires and gas lines.
Prevention Tips
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Most of the tips given above will help with rodent exclusion, but keep in mind that a rodent can chew a hole where there is no hole, or make a small hole much larger.
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Remove objects away from your exterior walls and reduce vegetation in your landscaping to make it difficult for rodents to find hiding places near your home.
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Put wire mesh in your downspouts to prevent mice or rats from getting up to your vulnerable roofline.
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Trim tree branches away from your roofline to prevent rodents from jumping onto your roof.
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If you have bird feeders, consider moving them to at least 20 feet from your exterior. Seed is an attractive food source.
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Address any conditions that create standing water.
Rodent And Pest Control
Remember that All-American Pest Control is here to assist you with all of your pest control needs. We provide coverage for over 47 of Tennessee's most common household pests, including mice and rats. We'll make sure your exterior gets the protection it needs. Reach out to us today. We look forward to helping keep those fall pests out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are rodent infestations in Nashville homes?
According to pest control reports, rodent infestations in Nashville spike during the fall and winter months. Cities with dense urban areas and older homes tend to see more rodent activity.
How can I keep stink bugs out of my Nashville home?
Stink bugs are notorious for entering homes in late fall to seek warmth. To keep them out, seal cracks around windows, doors, and vents, and ensure that screens are intact. If they’ve already entered, use a vacuum to remove them instead of squishing them to avoid the unpleasant odor.
Dependable Pest Control in Nashville, TN & Nearby Neighborhoods
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: West End Heights, Bellevue, Brick Church, Charlotte Park, 12 South, Belmont, Burton Hills, Donelson, Edgehill, Ensworth, Hillsboro Village, Hillsboro West End, Melrose, Music Row, Radnor, Shelby Park, Sylvan Park, The Nations, Wedgewood Houston, West Nashville, Whites Creek, and the entire Davidson County and Greater Nashville areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All-American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or Schedule a Free Consultation online.
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