While getting your home ready for winter, you’ll want to take steps to prevent pests from entering the house as they flee cold weather.

Here are four access points to
seal before the onset of winter.

1. Roof

Your roof should be inspected every year to check for broken or missing shingles, damaged downspouts and chimney boot disrepair.

Any of these problems could lead
to an opening in your home’s ceilings or siding, especially if these areas are compromised.

Insects often build nests during the summer in areas near roof access points, and some species enter the home and remain hidden in walls while building larger nests or hives.

Birds and bats may nest in the
chimney, so it is important to have an effective chimney cap in place and to
keep the flue closed during cold weather except when using the fireplace.

2. Foundation

Walk around your home to study the
foundation. Look for cracks, chips and openings that could lead into the
residence.

Patch these entry points to keep
mice, rats and small insects from burrowing into your basement when the
temperatures drop.

Inspecting the foundation is important for another reason: no water should pool around your home, or it could weaken the foundation.