As winter arrives and temperatures start dipping, pest activity seems almost non-existent. You may take it as a good sign as they may not be around during the extreme weather. Theoretically, insects and rodents hibernate during the colder months of the year. It is easy to put pest control at the bottom of your home maintenance checklists. But it may be the worst mistake for homeowners as you may end up with problems down the line. Ideally, pest control should be a year-round job for homeowners who want to steer clear of infestations in the long run. Let us explain why you must see it as an ongoing effort during winters.

Pests are still there

Insects and rodents do not go anywhere in the cold weather. Most of them only turn dormant and hide in warm places inside your home. You may not see them during the daytime, but they are still there. There could be warning signs like nocturnal sounds, musty odor, and trail marks around the house. While these signs look less serious than mosquitoes humming near the dustbins and cockroaches crawling on countertops, they can still be disconcerting. You must pay attention and act fast to address the concern, or you may encounter a massive institution when the weather gets warmer.

Indoors are safer for these unwanted intruders

Another reason to double up on pest control measures during winter is that outdoor pests are most likely to find ways to enter your home. As pests seek shelter from the cold, they tend to locate the smallest nooks and crannies to access your living space. They hide in attics and basements because these areas are warm and damp. Moreover, you will probably not access these parts of the property during the season. Insects and rodents can survive and thrive in these spaces undisturbed and come back stronger in spring and summer. But ongoing efforts to drive them out and seal the potential entry points can save you from much trouble down the line.

Holidays treats attract pests

Winter is about festive treats and parties at home. It means there will be a lot of leftovers on the tables and spills around the kitchen. Pests are attracted to the smell of the food lying in the open, and you can expect them to come out to feast on it. The sight of a stray rat when guests are around can be embarrassing. Even if house bugs aren't visible during the party, they will probably come out at night to taste the leftovers on the floor, table, and kitchen sink. Holiday decor is another dangerous area as insects can easily hide in branches, wreaths, and garlands. Not investing in control measures elevates the risk of infestations during festivities.

Pest control shouldn't be a one-time job, and neither should you take a set-and-forget approach with it. Ensure that you act quickly and at the slightest signs, regardless of the weather. If you aren't careful enough, you will have to pay a hefty price sooner rather than later.