Why Bugs Love Brick Homes in Tennessee and How to Keep Them Out

Brick homes are a familiar sight across Middle Tennessee. They’re durable, attractive, and hold up well in our climate. But if you own one, you may have noticed a frustrating downside: bugs love brick houses.

From tiny ants sneaking in through mortar cracks to stink bugs clustering on warm walls, brick homes can be more vulnerable to pests than you might expect. Let’s look at why this happens, which bugs to watch out for, and how to keep your home protected.

Why Are Brick Homes Vulnerable to Bugs?

Brick may look solid, but it’s full of small openings that pests can exploit.

• Easy entry points – Mortar gaps, weep holes, and cracks in bricks create natural doorways for insects.

• Warmth retention – Bricks absorb and hold heat. As fall temperatures drop, pests like stink bugs and lady beetles gather on warm brick exteriors before slipping indoors.

• Nesting spots – Many insects find hidden areas behind brick veneer, soffits, and trim perfect for shelter.

• Moisture retention – Shaded or overgrown areas around brick walls can hold excess moisture, attracting ants, cockroaches, and beetles.

Common Pests That Invade Tennessee Brick Homes

Homeowners often spot these pests around brick walls, windows, and attics:

• Stink bugs, boxelder bugs, and Asian lady beetles – seasonal invaders seeking warmth.

• Spiders – often found in soffits, eaves, and window frames.

• Ants – especially attracted to mortar cracks.

Do Brick Walls Keep Termites Away?

Many homeowners assume brick homes are safe from termites. Unfortunately, that’s a myth. Termites don’t eat brick, but they can:

• Enter through foundation cracks.

• Find interior wood framing once inside.

• Cause serious structural damage over time.

If your home has any wood at all (and almost all do), termites can become a real threat.

Drawbacks of Exposed Brick Walls

Exposed brick adds character, but it does come with downsides:

• Harder to seal – If not properly maintained, moisture problems can develop.

• Crumbling mortar – Creates gaps that pests can easily exploit.

• Porous surface – Provides hiding spots for insects.

Why Bugs Suddenly Appear in Brick Homes

Noticing more bugs than usual? Possible reasons include:

• Seasonal migration – Fall invaders like stink bugs head inside to overwinter.

• Weather changes – Sudden shifts in temperature or humidity push pests indoors.

• Entry points – Gaps in mortar, windows, or doors make it easy for bugs to slip in.

• Moisture issues – Poor drainage or landscaping too close to the foundation attracts insects.

Why Bugs Can Crawl Up Brick Walls

Bugs use tiny hairs and sticky pads on their legs to grip surfaces, even smooth ones. The textured surface of brick makes climbing even easier for ants, spiders, and beetles.

Natural Ways to Repel Bugs from Brick Exteriors

While natural repellents aren’t a full solution, they can help reduce pest activity around entry points. Try applying these scents near windows and doors:

• Lavender

• Peppermint

• Citrus

• Vinegar

• Eucalyptus

You can also reduce outdoor bug activity by:

1. Switching porch lights to yellow “bug bulbs.”

2. Turning off unnecessary exterior lights at night.

How to Prevent Pest Infestations in Brick Homes

To keep bugs from settling in, focus on sealing and prevention:

• Install breathable covers on weep holes.

• Repoint crumbling mortar.

• Seal gaps around windows and doors.

• Replace worn screens, weatherstripping, and door sweeps.

• Keep clutter, wood piles, and leaf litter away from walls.

• Improve yard drainage to reduce moisture near the foundation.

• Use yellow outdoor light bulbs instead of white.

• Store trash, pet food, and bird seed securely.

• Schedule seasonal perimeter pest control treatments for long-term protection.

When to Call a Pest Expert for Brick Home Pest Control

The best time to protect your brick home is before pests move in. Preventive treatments save time, money, and stress compared to battling an infestation later.

Call a professional if you:

• Deal with repeat infestations each season.

• Spot pests indoors despite sealing efforts.

• Notice visible entry points, nests, or droppings.

• Want guaranteed peace of mind with proactive pest protection.

Protect Your Brick Home with All-American Pest Control

At All-American Pest Control, we’ve been protecting Tennessee homes for over 60 years. Whether you’re seeing pests now or simply want to prevent future infestations, our team offers affordable, guaranteed solutions tailored to your home.

Contact us today to schedule your free home evaluation and keep your brick home pest-free year-round.

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Reliable Pest Control in Nashville, TN & Surrounding Areas

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: Sango, Woodlawn, Cunningham, Palmyra, Southside, Fredonia, Hilldale, Hickory Point, Clarksville, Ashland Hills, New Providence, St. Bethlehem, Needmore, Oakridge, Port Royal, Shady Grove, South Guthrie, Southaven, Dotsonville, Hampton Station, Marion, Rossview, and the entire Montgomery 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 home evaluation online.