Three Tips for a Pest-Free Garage

With temperatures dropping, mice, squirrels, and other neighbourhood critters are looking for a warm place to escape the snow and hide out until spring. Not only can these pests cause burrowing damage and garage floor stains, but their droppings can also spread viruses that are harmful to your health.

If you want to avoid using traps or pesticides, follow these five humane tips to make sure that your garage is protected from eager pests.

1. Remove Temptations

One of the most important tasks for keeping your garage pest-free is removing their driving forces.

• Warmth

Perform a quick clean of your garage, throwing away any old rags, insulation, or batting that could be used to make a cozy nest.

• Protection

A cluttered garage provides pests with places to hide. Protect your belongings by storing them off the ground in non-porous or plastic containers.

• Food

Store any household garbage in tall garbage bins with fitted lids to keep the smell of food in and hungry rodents out.

Bonus: Avoid storing pet food in your garage. Instead, empty your pet's food into plastic containers that can easily be stored in a cupboard or closet inside your home.

2. Seal Cracks & Openings

Prevent critters from getting into your garage by inspecting the space for any openings that bugs or rodents could squeeze through.

• Weatherstripping

Mice and other rodents can chew through the weatherstripping on your garage door to gain entry. Carefully examine the weatherstripping around the bottom of your door and, if you notice damage, contact the experts at Creative Door to schedule a replacement service.

• Vents & Drains

Tighten the seals around vents and drains in your garage to prevent pests from travelling to other areas of your home.

• Heating & Cooling Units

Double-check garage heating and air conditioning connections to ensure they're tightly sealed. Not only will this help to keep pests out of your garage, but it will also help protect the units from being damaged.

• Windows

Beyond just keeping the windows in your garage closed, inspect the trim and the area around your windows for any small openings. If you do find an opening, use caulking to fill and seal the space.

3. Try DIY Pest Repellent

Pesticides can be harmful to children and pets if accidentally consumed, and many rodent traps can be an inhumane way to dispose of unwanted critters.

• PETA's all-natural pest repellent

Combine salad oil with horseradish, garlic and lots of cayenne pepper. Then, let the mixture sit for several days, strain it and transfer it into a spray bottle. Carefully spray the areas in your garage where you suspect pests are hiding or using as an entryway. The mixture shouldn't be ingested and can be potent; use sparingly in confined spaces.

A secure and properly sealed garage door will help to keep your space free from unwanted visitors this winter. Creative Door can install, service, and help you find the right door to meet your needs and keep the critters away. Contact us to learn more.