Your storage shed is the perfect place for a pest infestation. It is dark, and there’s not too much activity. It is no wonder that pests such as rodents will take shelter in your shed. It is the perfect hiding place where they can stay safe from human intervention.
However, pests can damage the integrity of your shed. An infestation can also damage your tools, especially those with electrical wires. They can damage your garden and vegetation. Worse, they can cause health problems for you and your family.
If you do not want to resort to chemical pesticides, you can prevent a pest infestation from occurring in your shed. Adopting these practices can save you from costly repairs and expenses.
Seal All The Cracks In Your Walls
Bugs, rodents, and other pests enter your garden shed through holes and cracks in your flooring and the siding. Whenever you see a crack, seal it immediately with construction caulk. Regardless of their sizes, these cracks are a welcome invitation to pests and bugs. You can finish your sealant with a new coat of paint to add extra protection.
Clean Your Shed Regularly
Basic shed upkeep and cleaning can help keep pests and bugs away. Regular cleaning helps prevent rodents and other pests from taking shelter in your shed. Remove excess dirt and grime to keep away bugs and insects as well.
Cleaning your shed regularly also allows you to keep your shed organized. An organized and well-kept shed will make it harder for pests to create shelter.
Keep Your Garbage Bin Away From Your Shed
Many homeowners keep their garbage bins beside their sheds. This is a very bad idea. Doing so only invites more pests and bugs into your shed. They will show up to eat through your garbage bags. After eating their tummies full, they will go to your shed for some warm accommodation.
Invest in high-quality garbage bins with lids that you can close tightly. It is wise to wash your garbage bins once in a while.
Keep Your Seeds In Sealed Containers
Open seed bags are appealing to rodents and other pests. Keep them safe in sealed containers and avoid leaving them in open bags. Affordable sealed containers can keep your seeds safe until next year, and can also keep your shed more organized.
While you’re at it, repack other items in your shed as well. Rodents and pests love to nibble and gnaw on cardboard boxes and cartons. They give other pests potential nesting grounds. You can also store cloth items in plastic containers to keep it safe from moths and cockroaches.
Declutter Your Shed
The fewer the items in your shed, the lower the chances of a pest infestation. Keep your shed less crowded and cluttered. Assess the things that you have in your shed and throw away those that you will no longer use. Piles of wood and compost give pests the perfect home. Keep organic matters as far away from your shed as possible.
Patch Any Roof Leaks
Rain leaking into your shed can make it prone to mold and water damage. On top of that, it makes your shed a perfect habitat for pests. Patch roof leaks the moment you see them. Pests and insects are attracted to moisture, so it is a good idea to keep your shed as dry as possible.
Immediately fix leaky pipes and remove any standing water in and just outside your shed.
Use Physical Traps
If you suspect that there are rodents in your shed, set up traps in strategic places and corners. If you want a more humane option, you can use trap-and-release solutions to control the rodents in your property.
Inspect Your Shed
Regularly inspect your shed for signs of infestation. You need to be proactive to get rid of an infestation. Do not wait until they start to destroy everything in your shed.
Signs Of A Pest Infestation In Your Shed
Aside from actually seeing a rodent running around your shed, here are some signs that indicate that you have a pest infestation in your shed.
- Rodent droppings and urine trails
- Bite marks, chewed electrical wires, and chewed holes in boxes
- Evidence of nesting, such as shredded papers, leaves, and grass clippings
- Damaged plants
- Damaged furniture
Make your shed structurally sound and healthy by keeping away bugs and pests. It will help you avoid damages that can even be harmful to your health and family.
