When windows get old, they tend to leak. Bugs can slip into your home through tiny cracks as thin as a debit card. Screens tend to break, making entry into your home even easier for insects and other unwanted bugs.
During the winter, insects may be drawn to the warmth of your home, while in the spring and summer they may be headed to the food they smell while your windows are open.
Read on to learn how to avoid insect infestations that can be both irritating and unhealthy for you.
How to Prevent Bugs from Getting Through Your Windows
When you get near your windows, do you feel an uncomfortable draft? If you do, there are cracks in your windows that can let bugs inside.
Windows are vulnerable once they get old, and with so many of them in your home, when they are compromised, bugs get inside. How can you keep these pesky critters from entering?
1. Repair window screens
Holes and tears in window screens usher unwanted bugs into your home. You can repair your window screens yourself, or hire a handyman to do it. By installing new screen material, you’ll fortify your home against insects.
2. Caulk your exterior window frames
As long as it’s over 40 degrees, you can seal your exterior window frames by caulking them. If you spot large cracks, use expanding foam to seal them up.
3. Use insect repellent around your window screens
Some insect repellants can trigger respiratory trouble or asthma attacks, so consider a DEET-free repellant or a natural option.
4. Check for wood rot
If moisture has penetrated your window frame and you spot signs of wood rot, that can open the door to insect infestation. Replace rotting wood with new wood, seal it with caulk, and paint it to prevent moisture intrusion in the future. If you aren’t comfortable with DIY repairs, contact a window contractor.
5. Plant greenery near windows that repels insects
A fun solution to the bug problem can be to add a planter box to your window’s exterior and plant (bug-repelling) basil, lavender, or rosemary in it.
6. Take an organic approach
There are natural ingredients that can be used to ward off unwanted insects. Some essential oils have compounds in them that repel insects. Mix 15 drops of oil with water in a squirt bottle and spray it onto your screens or window frames. Or, wipe down your windows with an essential oil-soaked cloth.
Peppermint is usually effective against most insects, but if you know more specifically what you want to repel, here are some guidelines on which oil to use.
- Citronella, Lavender, and Lemongrass ward off mosquitoes.
- Spearmint and Patchouli ward off gnats.
- Peppermint, Spearmint, Lavender, and Lemongrass ward off flies.
- Citronella, Cedarwood, and Hyssop ward off moths.
- Spearmint and Peppermint ward off ants.
- Citronella and Peppermint ward off roaches.
- Peppermint and Spearmint ward off spiders.
- Lavender, Lemongrass, Sage, and Thyme ward off ticks.
7. Add a bird feeder near your windows
Birds love to eat bugs, so adding a bird feeder near your windows will cheer up your home and provide a natural way to keep bugs out of your house.
8. Replace windows if needed
If your windows are damaged, worn out, and leaking, it may be time for a window replacement. New windows fit snugly into your exterior wall and inside their frames, reducing the possibility of bug infestations.
Exterior and Interior Remodeling
Holes and gaps in your windows can lead to more than just bug problems. Leaky windows cause uncomfortable drafts in your home and can trigger the loss of up to 30% of your heat or air conditioning—making your HVAC system work harder and wear out faster, and driving up your utility bills.
At Beissel Window & Siding, we provide whole home remodeling with our sister company Beissel Renovation. We understand the struggle of trying to find someone who can help with your problem when an issue arises. That’s why our Twin Cities clients love that we do home exteriors and interiors and they don’t have to coordinate with multiple companies.
Take a moment to learn more about our replacement window services.
