The Creepy Crawlies of Home Maintenance. How to Keep the Bugs Out!

Every homeowner has had that moment, turning on the basement light and spotting something with too many legs scurrying for cover. Or maybe it’s the trail of ants across the kitchen counter that seems to appear overnight, no matter how clean things are. Creepy crawlies have a way of making themselves right at home if we’re not paying attention, and as a home inspector, I see it all the time.

Keeping bugs out of your home isn’t just about comfort (or avoiding the heebie-jeebies). It’s about maintaining your home’s structure and preventing damage that can quietly build up behind the walls. The good news? Most pest problems start small; and with some regular maintenance, you can keep the bugs outside where they belong.

They’re Sneaky, Not Supernatural

Bugs aren’t magical. They can’t teleport inside; they need a way in. During inspections, I often spot the entry points that most homeowners never notice: gaps around vents, unsealed openings where pipes enter, cracks around window frames, and torn door weather stripping. These tiny gaps might not seem like much, but to an ant, that’s a front door.

A quick walk around your home once or twice a year can make a big difference. Look for cracks, gaps, and damaged seals, and use exterior-grade caulking or expanding foam to close them up. Replace old door sweeps and check that you can’t see light under or around your doors. If light gets through, bugs can too.

Moisture = Bug Magnet

One thing I’ve learned after inspecting hundreds of homes: moisture problems almost always attract pests. Damp basements, slow plumbing leaks, or high humidity levels in crawlspaces create the perfect environment for everything from centipedes and silverfish to termites.

If your basement feels damp or smells musty, it’s worth addressing. Fix leaks right away, make sure your downspouts are directing water away from the foundation, and consider using a dehumidifier. Keeping things dry not only deters bugs, it protects your home’s structure from mold and rot too.

Don’t Forget the Yard

A well-maintained yard is your first line of defense. Overgrown shrubs pressed up against the siding or piles of firewood leaning against the house create perfect hiding and nesting spots. Trim vegetation back so there’s space between your walls and the greenery.

It’s also a good idea to keep mulch or soil graded away from the foundation. Standing water and damp soil right next to your house will draw insects like a magnet, and it can cause foundation issues over time.

The Kitchen - A Bug’s Buffet

If there’s one room that bugs love most, it’s the kitchen. Crumbs, spills, and pet food left out overnight are all irresistible. Even a small leak under the sink can create enough moisture to invite ants or roaches. Regular cleaning behind appliances, keeping food sealed, and emptying the garbage often can make your kitchen a bug-free zone.

And remember, pests usually hang out where it’s dark and quiet. Pull your stove and fridge out once in a while and see what’s hiding back there. You might be surprised.

A Light at the Door

Ever notice how porch lights seem to attract a full swarm of insects? That light might as well be a glowing “Welcome” sign. Switching to yellow bug lights or LED bulbs that emit less UV light can drastically reduce the number of flying insects hovering near your doors. And while you’re at it, check those window and door screens; one small tear can be all it takes for pests to get inside.

When to Bring in the Pros

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the bugs win. If you notice wood shavings near your foundation, mud tubes on walls, or recurring infestations, it’s time to call a pest control professional. Termites, carpenter ants, and other destructive pests can cause serious damage if left unchecked.

Bugs are part of nature: but they don’t have to be part of your home. Regular maintenance, good cleaning habits, and a little vigilance go a long way. From my inspector’s point of view, keeping pests out is one of the simplest (and cheapest) ways to protect your investment.

If you’re unsure where pests might be getting in or what conditions might be attracting them, schedule a professional home inspection. A trained eye can spot issues before they turn into infestations, and give you peace of mind knowing that your home is safe, solid, and (mostly) bug-free.

Because when it comes to home maintenance, it’s better to be proactive than to find yourself sharing your space with something that crawls, buzzes, or bites. 🕷️🏠