Your comfortable home is a magnet for things seeking comfort â bugs, rodents, etc. â and your friendly contractors have invited them in.
đŒïž The big picture: Any hole or gap in the outer shell of your home is a possible entrance for various critters. Many contractors are not thinking about this when they work on your home. Itâs up to you to do the thinking.
- Note: Todayâs email inspired by a helpful walk around my house with pest expert Michael Bosco.
đ What to look for: Plumbers, electricians & HVAC techs need to drill holes in exterior wood or brick to run drain lines, wires & refrigerant lines.
- When access is tight or tricky, they might drill a much larger hole than needed. After running lines the hole leaves a gap big enough for âŠ
đ„ A rat needs a 1â hole or a 1/2â gap. A mouse can squeeze through a hole the size of your pointer finger. A roach needs a gap the thickness of a penny.
â For your Smart Homeowner list
- Walk around your house and do a visual inspection.
- Look for holes or gaps pests could use.
- Go to your outdoor AC condenser(s). If the lines going into the house have a metal cover hiding the actual holeâthe cover may need to be removed to inspect. You can ask your HVAC tech to do this next time you need service.
Best,
Travis
P.S. Donât rely only on foam. Holes and gaps need a physical barrier â wood, or metal flashing or mesh. Use foam/caulk as the final step only.