Portland, Oregon, has a Mediterranean climate, where summers are warm and dry while winters are wet and overcast. Pests infest homes across neighborhoods, and each area has unique problems. In Forest Park & NW Heights, there are dense trees that attract spiders, ants, and other insects, while St. Johns & East Portland have older infrastructure and vegetation that increase access points. 

So, how can you reduce recurring pests? Hiring Portland pest control services is non-negotiable, but there are also habits that can help reduce pest incidences. We decided to talk to the experts at Pointe Pest Control, which has trained technicians working across Portland neighborhoods. Here are some recommendations from Pointe experts. 

Be Careful About Entry Points

If yours is an older home that has cracks or gaps in the foundation, you have to consider sealing them. However, dealing with entry points also requires caution. For instance, if rodents are already breeding or thriving in store rooms and garages, closing access points can worsen the indoor situation. Let technicians verify whether there are suppressed problems, and only when they advise, can you consider exclusion steps. 

Fix Moisture Concerns

Frequent rainfall in Portland ensures ongoing moisture issues. Many properties have standing water around gutters, while containers and planters also retain water. Species like ants, roaches, and other insects need moisture to thrive and breed, and not fixing clogged gutters and failing to fix dampness inside basements can cause more problems. Also, call landscaping services to check whether the current drainage or runoff is causing water pooling close to the building. 

Store Food and Waste Properly

Why do pests enter homes? The foremost reason is food. If you keep pantry stuff in the open or don’t clean spills immediately, ants and roaches will continue to come in search of residues. Waste disposal is critical, and you have to ensure all garbage cans have secure lids. Make sure you aren’t leaving pet food in the open or at night. 

Maintain Yard and Landscape

Most pests hide in the yard and garden before finding a way to get inside homes. If your landscape is rarely maintained or when there is too much vegetation close to the main structure, you will encounter insects and rodents regularly. Ensure the yard is maintained and all debris is cleared. Mulch beds can retain moisture for spiders and ants, and it is best to get them checked by pest experts. 

Schedule Regular Indoor Cleaning 

Once every six months, you have to call professional cleaners to clear the basement, attic, and other areas that accumulate dust and debris. Make sure you get storage areas checked for unwanted stuff, because more clutter means more hiding spots for pests. 

Schedule Regular Inspections

Ensure that you connect with your exterminator for seasonal inspections and proactive measures. Patterns and nature of infestations change with the weather in Portland, and assessments will help find early nesting signs and colonies. 

Spend on Regular Pest Control

The biggest bad habit that worsens infestations is waiting for extreme signs. Many homeowners don’t think of getting help until they have tried all DIY measures or have exhausted other options. People often assume that the problem is seasonal and will disappear with time, but given the weather in this part of Oregon, pest cycles continue through the months. Instead of just inspections, consider calling a pest control company in Portland for ongoing work. The team can ensure there are no hidden issues, and if you see insects or rodents in between assessment dates, you can get assistance for no extra cost. 

Take your time to review pest control contracts, but consider signing one soon!