Houston’s Most Common Pest Problems — and How to Prevent Them This Season

Houston’s Most Common Pest Problems — and How to Prevent Them This Season

If you live in the Houston area, you know that our warm, humid climate makes this city a paradise not only for people—but for pests, too. From fire ants and mosquitoes to roaches and rodents, Houston homeowners deal with pest issues year-round. But as temperatures cool in the fall and early winter, pests start seeking shelter indoors, making now the perfect time to take preventive action.

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Common Pests in the Houston Area

Here are the usual suspects that tend to show up around Houston homes:

• Ants – Especially fire ants and carpenter ants, which can damage lawns and wood structures.
• Mosquitoes – Thrive in our humidity and often breed in standing water after heavy rains.
• Cockroaches – The German and American roaches are common indoors, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Rodents – Mice and roof rats seek warmth and food inside walls and attics during cooler months.
• Termites – Subterranean termites are a major threat to Houston homes and remain active year-round.
• Spiders – Usually harmless, but they move indoors in search of prey and shelter.

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Seasonal Prevention Tips (Fall/Winter Focus)

As we move into the cooler months, here are preventive measures Houston homeowners should take:

1. Seal Entry Points

• Inspect around doors, windows, attic vents, and pipe openings.
• Seal cracks and gaps with silicone-based caulk or steel wool.
• Add weatherstripping around doors to keep rodents and roaches out.

2. Eliminate Moisture

• Fix leaky pipes and faucets—roaches and ants are drawn to water sources.
• Make sure gutters drain properly away from the foundation.
• Use a dehumidifier in damp spaces like garages or laundry rooms.

3. Declutter and Clean

• Store food in airtight containers.
• Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
• Clear clutter in attics and garages to remove hiding spots for rodents.

4. Yard Maintenance

• Trim back shrubs and tree branches touching your home.
• Keep mulch and woodpiles at least 12 inches away from your foundation.
• Empty birdbaths, buckets, and other water-collecting items weekly.

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Recommended Services

For Houston homeowners, professional pest control isn’t just a luxury—it’s an investment in protecting your home. Here’s what we recommend seasonally:

Service	Description	Frequency	Typical Cost
General Pest Control	Covers ants, roaches, spiders, and occasional invaders	Quarterly	$75–$125/visit
Rodent Control	Inspection, exclusion, and baiting	As needed	$150–$250 initial, $50–$100 follow-ups
Mosquito Treatment	Yard misting or fogging, especially April–October	Monthly	$65–$100/month
Termite Inspection & Treatment	Detects and eliminates colonies	Annual	Inspection: $75–$150; Treatment: $800–$2,500

Tip: Bundle quarterly pest and mosquito control services for discounted rates—many Houston homeowners save up to 20% when combining them.

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DIY Options

If you’re a hands-on homeowner, there are several things you can do yourself:

• Roaches: Use gel bait (like Advion) in corners and under sinks.
• Ants: Apply outdoor barrier granules and indoor bait traps.
• Rodents: Set snap traps in attics or garages—always wear gloves.
• Mosquitoes: Use larvicide “dunks” in standing water and run outdoor fans to deter them.

However, DIY methods often offer short-term relief. For ongoing protection and guaranteed results, a professional maintenance plan is your best defense.

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Protect Your Home Year-Round

Whether you’re dealing with seasonal invaders or want year-round peace of mind, there are several Houston-based pest control teams that offer customized plans for every home size and budget. Reach out to me for a few solid contacts!