Spring Pest Prevention for South Carolina Homeowners

As temperatures rise across the Pee Dee and Grand Strand, pests that slowed down over the winter become more active—moving about more, foraging for food, and looking for ways into your home. Many common pests in the region, like ants, termites, and rodents, never go completely dormant, but warmer weather triggers a surge in their activity, breeding, and nesting. Spring is the perfect time to avoid potential infestations before they become bigger problems. Use this list to identify and correct potential problem areas and how to fix them. 

Seal entry points so pests can’t get inside

• Inspect for cracks, gaps, and openings: Walk around your home and check windows, doors, sides, roofline, and the foundation for small openings. Even tiny gaps can let ants, spiders, and mice sneak inside. Seal them up with caulk or other pest-proofing materials.
• Check screens and vents: Torn window screens and unsealed vents are an open invitation for mosquitoes and other insects. Repair or replace damaged screens to keep bugs where they belong—outside.
• Look over your crawl space door: Rust, warping, or gaps around the crawl space frame should be addressed to prevent pests from taking advantage of that opening. 

Declutter and remove attractants

• Organize storage areas: Rodents, spiders, and cockroaches love cluttered attics, garages, and other storage areas. Store items in sealed, durable plastic containers and keep these spaces clean and well-ventilated.
• Clear yard debris: Piles of leaves, downed tree branches, and overgrown vegetation create the perfect hiding spots for pests. Trim bushes away from your home and tidy your yard to discourage unwanted visitors.
• Store firewood properly: If you keep firewood on hand, make sure it’s stacked at least 20 feet away from your home and up off the ground.

Stay ahead of termites

• Schedule a termite inspection: South Carolina’s climate makes termites a year-round threat. Check for mud tubes, discarded wings, or hollow-sounding wood, and if you don’t already have a termite control plan in place, schedule a professional inspection before they cause costly damage.
• Fix moisture problems: Termites thrive in damp areas. Check for leaks under sinks, around plumbing, and in crawl spaces. Fix any issues and consider using a dehumidifier in problem areas.
• Keep mulch away from your foundation: Mulch retains moisture, which attracts termites. To reduce the risk of termite activity near your structure, keep mulch several inches away from your home's foundation. 

Eliminate food sources that lure pests 

• Keep your kitchen clean: Wipe down counters, tables, floors, and other surfaces regularly to remove food crumbs, spills, and sticky residues that attract ants and other pests. 
• Store food properly: Ensure all perishable and non-perishable food is sealed in airtight containers or stored in the refrigerator. This prevents pests like ants, roaches, and rodents from being attracted to food scents. Pay special attention to pantry staples such as grains, cereal, and snacks that are packaged in wrappers that are easily ripped open. You should also keep pet food in secure containers to avoid inviting pests indoors.
• Manage outdoor trash: Do not overfill garbage bins; keep them covered with tight-fitting lids. Do not allow cardboard or other debris to accumulate near bins, as this will attract pests, including rodents.

Discourage mosquitoes, fire ants, and other yard pests

• Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes breed in even the smallest amounts of stagnant water. Empty flowerpot saucers, birdbaths, and clogged gutters to cut down on mosquito populations before they explode.
• Repair leaks around the yard: Mosquitoes, fire ants, and other pests are attracted to moist areas. Fix any leaks around outdoor faucets, pipes, or irrigation systems to prevent water from pooling and attracting pests.
• Mow and trim regularly: Overgrown grass and dense vegetation create shady, humid conditions where fleas, ticks, and other pests thrive. Mow your lawn regularly and thin out bushes and other landscaping. 

Call the Experts Before Pests Become a Problem

DIY prevention goes a long way, but some pest problems require professional expertise. If you’re dealing with termites, rodents, mosquitoes, or other stubborn pests, don’t wait until it gets worse.

Locally owned and family-operated since 1973, Harris Pest Control provides the best pest control solutions in Florence, Myrtle Beach, and throughout the Pee Dee and Grand Strand regions. Whether you need ongoing home pest control, termite protection, rodent control, or seasonal mosquito treatments, our team is here to help! 

Schedule your spring pest inspection today!