Helena Talbot’s blog – Keep Wintering Pests Out of Your House

Freezing pipes aren't the only things could be invading your home this winter. The National Pest Management Association says many pests enjoy spending winter inside a warm house, and rodents alone will invade an estimated 21 million homes in the U.S. this winter.

More than just a nuisance, there are real threats posed by many of the pests that like to share our homes the NPMA says. Mice and rats can spread diseases like salmonella and hantavirus and can contaminate food.

Rodents can also bring other pests like fleas, ticks and lice indoors and can cause serious structural damage to a home by chewing through wood and electrical wiring.

Beyond rodents, other winter pests include ants, spiders and cockroaches, which can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, spread disease, transmit bacteria, contaminate food and in some cases, bite.

Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the NPMA says an infestation by one or more of these pests can lead to serious health and property concerns if they go undetected or are left uncontrolled.

Fortunately, the NPMA has a few tips to prevent pests from coming indoors on firewood, foliage and family pets - or gaining entry through small crevices in a home's exterior:

• Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home.
• Store items that are kept in garages, basements and attics in plastic, sealed containers rather than cardboard boxes to prevent rodents from nesting inside.
• Keep branches and shrubbery trimmed away from the home.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet from the home and five feet off the ground.
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors and repair damaged screens.
• Screen vents and openings to chimneys.
• Store food in airtight containers and dispose garbage regularly.
• If you suspect an infestation, contact your local pest professional.

By John Voket

I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia.

I have over 25 years experience in the real estate industry.  As a Broker/Owner with Exit Realty Talbot and Company, I bring special tools and solutions that enable me to exceed the expectations of my clientele.  If you are considering listing your property in Loudoun County or the nearby areas, ask me about our latest internet marketing systems.  I would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.  

I am experienced in listing and selling short sales.  For information on the short sale process, please visit  www.LoudounShortSaleSolutions.com.

For a free market analysis on the value of your home, please visit http://www.LoudounHomeValues.com

My past awards and designations include – 2003 President of the Dulles Association of Realtors, 2003 Dulles Area Assoc Realtor of the Year, Salesperson of the year 2000 Dulles Area Assoc of Realtors,  Top Producer awards from both the Dulles Area Association and the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors.  I am a member of the Top 5 in Real Estate Network.

I have lived in Loudoun County since 1979.  I am married with two grown children and two grandchildren.  My son in law is my business partner in real estate.  I love to jog in the mornings and spend time relaxing on my Trawler during the summer months.

Loudoun County and Northern Virginia Real Estate Sales and Solutions – Helena Talbot, Broker. I specialize in helping buyers and sellers invest in real estate in the Northern Virginia area to include Loudoun County and surrounding areas including Fairfax, Clarke, Fauquier, Prince William  Counties.  Our local neighborhoods includeLeesburg, Ashburn, Sterling, Potomac Falls, Brambleton, Broadlands, Lansdowne, River Creek, Belmont Country Club, Beacon Hill, Shenstone, Waterford, Lovettsville, Purcellville, Hamilton, Round Hill and Bluemont.                        Cell 703.727.9885    Office 703.574.3800

Free iPhone/Android Mobile App to search Northern Virginia real estate.  2 easy ways to get the App:  Text “Exit9” to 87778 or enter http://87778.mobi/Exit9 into your browser.