As temperatures fluctuate across metro Atlanta, homeowners may notice more pest activity as rodents and insects seek warmth and shelter. Neil Bloyd, director of learning and technical services with Northwest Exterminating, joins host Carol Morgan on the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast to discuss how homeowners can proactively prepare their homes for winter pests while planning ahead for spring insect activity.

Rodents are the primary concern during late fall and winter, as mice can squeeze through openings “as small as a dime” and rats through openings “the size of a quarter.” Bloyd encourages homeowners to seal entry points and inspect attics—particularly when retrieving holiday decorations—for signs of droppings.

“A lot of pests are attracted to lighting,” Bloyd said. “Keeping the garage door open—those kinds of things are oftentimes overlooked, but they can lead to pest issues.”

What winter pests should homeowners look for in the fall? Smoky brown cockroaches tend to surge in the fall and persist through winter, while Joro spiders are strictly outdoor spiders and unlikely to enter homes. While their long-term ecological impact is still being studied, Bloyd notes that Joro spiders can be beneficial predators, particularly of brown marmorated stink bugs, which are harmful to agriculture.

Looking ahead to spring, managing moisture is one of the most effective preventive strategies.

“Replacing old pine straw or mulch is advised, as well as not piling it too high,” Bloyd said. “If you can keep a six-inch gap between the pine straw mulch and the foundation that allows that area to dry out, which makes it less inviting for those pests.”

Vegetation management is also critical. Tree limbs and shrubs touching the home act as “easy highways” for ants and other insects to enter the structure.

Homeowners should carefully consider when to seal entry points. Sealing too early can trap overwintering pests—such as ladybugs, stink bugs and box elder bugs—inside wall voids, leading to odors and secondary infestations

“I would advise doing that in late spring or even summertime,” Bloyd said, “when they’ve already vacated but before they return for winter.”

Mosquito prevention should begin in February or March to reduce populations before peak season. By summer, populations are often already established, making control much more difficult.

Termites remain a year-round concern in Georgia. Bloyd recommends annual professional inspections. Termite swarms, most common in spring, indicate an established colony and require timely attention.

Northwest Exterminating offers a range of termite protection options, including the Sentricon Colony Elimination System, as well as pretreatment services for new construction in partnership with homebuilders.

Tune in to the full episode for expert tips on preparing your home for winter pests and managing spring insect activity. Learn more about Northwest Exterminating at www.CallNorthwest.com.

Northwest Exterminating provides quarterly pest control, green pest control programs, monthly mosquito services, wildlife removal, bed bug treatments, termite protection and honeybee removal and relocation. The company maintains a long-standing commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

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