As Fall is right around the corner, it is important to protect your home from wild animals that may be looking for a place to stow away for the Winter. This article will provide tips on preparing your home for the season, and limiting your chances of having wild animals move in.
Clean Up Fall Leaves
Fallen leaves can provide plenty of cover for smaller animals to scurry around unseen. Many rodents, such as squirrels, mice, and chipmunks will hide among leaves to avoid humans and predators. Leaf piles can serve as hideouts for even bigger animals. Snakes, raccoons, opossums, and other critters may use leaf piles to hide out or den in them. Overall, cleaning up fallen leaves is a good first step to reducing animal activity in your yard.
Clean Out the Gutters in the Fall
Leaves and other debris can clog up your gutters. This debris can weigh heavily on your home and cause damage. Wild animals can then exploit damaged areas to gain access to your attic. Additionally, cleaning out your gutters in the Fall will help with drainage from Winter snow.
Cap Your Chimney
Chimneys can make excellent dens for pest animals. Unfortunately, the Fall and Winter are also when you need a clear chimney the most. If you do not have a chimney cap, now is a good time to get one. Be sure to check your chimney for denning animals before you cap it.
Change Air Filters in the Fall
Air filters in your home should be changed every 3 months, or sooner. Generally, if you smoke indoors or have pets, you should replace them every 2 months. Replacing your air filters can also help keep the air quality in your home cleaner. And, it can make your HVAC system run more efficiently.
Check Ventilation Fans
Ventilation fans should be inspected before the Summer and the Winter. This helps ensure a steady flow of air from your central systems (Heating and A/C). Sometimes, wild animals can enter the vents through these openings. Be sure to inspect them for signs of animal activity.