People usually associate pest control with using sprays or traps and sealing up cracks. But moisture management must also be part of the equation. This is because water can be a reason pests invade your Denver home.
The weather in the city can change quickly. As snowmelt or summer rains bring bursts of moisture, it is important to pay attention to damp spots around your home. To better understand what role moisture plays in pest infestations, visit saelapest.com. So, why should you pay attention to sources of moisture around your home when trying to keep it free of pests?
Moisture Attracts All Types of Pests
Many pests are drawn to moisture because they need water to survive. Damp areas can provide the perfect conditions for pests to drink, hide, and reproduce. Common pests that love moisture include ants, cockroaches, silverfish, rodents, and termites. Cleaning your home may not stop pests from showing up if they can sense a source of moisture in or around it.
Denver’s Climate Plays a Role
Denver’s weather is unique. Seasonal changes bring sudden rainstorms, heavy snow, and temperature swings. Snowmelt in the spring can cause basements to get damp while summer thunderstorms can create puddles or soaked mulch around homes.
This type of moisture is what pests are looking for. These unwanted guests love to settle in during these wet periods. They tend to stay once they find a good place.
Basements and Crawl Spaces Are Trouble Spots
A lot of Denver homes have basements or crawl spaces. These areas are naturally cooler and more humid than the rest of the house. Unfortunately, pests love it down there. A leaky pipe, poor ventilation, or condensation collecting on walls can create a perfect environment for bugs and rodents. Regularly checking these areas for signs of moisture can prevent bigger problems from arising.
Leaky Pipes and Clogged Gutters Invite Trouble
A slow-dripping pipe or a clogged gutter can cause enough moisture to draw pests in. In fact, plumbing leaks under sinks, behind walls, or near your water heater are common sources of indoor moisture issues. Also, gutters that do not drain properly can cause water to collect near your home’s foundation. This attracts insects and can lead to cracks in the foundation where pests can get inside. Keeping your gutters clear and checking your plumbing protects your home from water damage and keeps pests at bay.
Mulch and Landscaping Can Hold Moisture
Landscaping is an important part of curb appeal but certain choices can accidentally invite pests. For instance, mulch is great for keeping soil healthy and retaining water for plants. But it also holds in moisture and provides a cozy shelter for bugs such as ants, earwigs, and termites.
Mulch that is piled too close to your foundation can create moisture and cause pest problems.
So, keep mulch a few inches away from your home and use gravel or rocks near the base instead.
Poor Ventilation Can Trap Moisture Indoors
Sometimes, moisture problems can come from everyday activities such as cooking, showering, or doing laundry. Poor ventilation can cause the steam and humidity from these tasks to get trapped inside your home. Over time, the trapped moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and pest issues. Silverfish and cockroaches, in particular, love humid areas. Using exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, or simply opening a window can help keep moisture levels low and make your home less inviting to these pests.
Moisture and Pest Damage Go Hand in Hand
Moisture can also make your home more vulnerable to damage. Termites, for example, are much more likely to attack damp or rotting wood. Rodents may chew into soggy insulation or nest near leaking pipes. Managing moisture protects your home’s structure, air quality, and overall value.