Do New Houses Have Fewer Bugs?

Bugs are like humans because they like a nice home for the same reason you do. They want food, water, and a roof over their head. They have been finding their way into homes since they were first built. Although many people are under the assumption new houses do not need pest control services, new houses are just as susceptible to pests as older homes.

Why do bugs come into my home?

Bugs come into the home looking to make a home for themselves. A nice and cozy shelter where they can find water and warmth. If this is to be found in your home, then they will move in. Common house bugs include spiders, ants, flies, cockroaches, centipedes, earwigs, and firebrats. Unfortunately, for us humans, bugs are going to be a part of our lives no matter how clean we keep our homes, and whether they are new or old houses.

Are bugs pests or beneficial insects?

Humans have classified many insects as pests when in fact they are very beneficial as food sources for birds and other insect species. Bugs are also beneficial for breaking down wood and plant materials for plant growth. Each pest or insect, be it an ant, a spider, a snake, or a rodent, plays an important role in keeping the equilibrium constant in the ecological balance. This doesn’t mean you have to invite them into your home and throw a party for them. Instead, it means that there are options available to make certain modifications to your home to make it less attractive for them.

Modifying the home to keep bugs out

Home modifications can land up being long-term savings in pest control costs if they are done properly. What a bonus, no pests and saving money at the same time. The use of self-applied pesticides from a local nursery or home improvement center rarely works. Pesticides need to be applied on a regular basis which can become costly. Trying a different approach and simply eradicating them from entering your home will save a lot of money in the long run and give you peace of mind.

Tips to keep bugs outside

Inside your home

Put screens on all windows and doors that can be opened. Properly maintain the screens once they have been put in place. All ventilation openings will also need to have screen covers put over them.
Door sweeps should be installed on all exterior doors as well as on the garage door. Ensure there is no light coming under the bottom of each door. Foam weather stripping can be used to seal the bottom track of sliding doors.
A lot of insects look for cracks to sneak in, so all cracks need to be filled and sealed.
Seal entry points of pipes around the faucets, laundry vents, and gas meters. Clean the cracks and fill them with a good sealant.
Install mesh wire over the chimney, roof, and attic vents as these attract birds and bats.
Repair pipes that may be leaking as the water attracts insects.
Always store any food in airtight storage containers and don’t leave any crumbs on kitchen counters.

Outside your home

Keep refuse and rubble out of your garden as this is a breeding ground for rodents and pests.
Clean out gutters, window wells, and prune shrubs or trees close to your house.
If you have a compost bin, pest-proof it by not composting fat, fish, oils, bones, or fatty foods. Bury food waste in the center of the pile to avoid attracting pests.
Use pest-resistant trash bins with self-closing lids that have a tight seal.
Encourage birds into your garden by putting up a bird feeder with birdseed.
Plant flowers in your flower beds to encourage insects beneficial to your garden.
Declutter your yard and do regular maintenance checks.

Bugs seem to be a part of our lives since they have been around for over 20,000 years. You can try to manage how many do or don’t get into your home by following the tips mentioned above or using a broom and smiling as you sweep them away.

Additional Reading: Got Pests? Control Them Safely

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