Structural Deficiencies Invite Pests

What’s one thing that can ruin an otherwise spectacular guest experience? A single pest sighting.

No guest wants to run across pests on your property, and just seeing a rodent or bug may be enough to drive them away from your business for good. What’s more, these unwanted visitors can cause massive amounts of structural damage around your facility—and once they’re in, pests can be tough to get out.

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do stop them in their tracks. After decades in the business, Orkin Canada has learned the exact shortcomings that can put any facility at increased risk for pests. If you’re experiencing any of these pitfalls, it’s crucial to address them quickly in order to preserve your facility’s safety (and profitability).

These can include exterior deficiencies such as:

• Cracks, crevices and gaps in exterior walls
• Gaps around doors and windows
• Torn window screens

Additionally, you’ll want to check for interior deficiencies, including:

• Open doors
• Buildup and grime in drains
• Clogged gutters
• Leaks

Each of the above can result in a torrential invasion of pests in your building, compromising the very fabric of your business and eroding the trust you’ve worked so hard to build with your paying customers.

How to Look for Structural Deficiencies

Structural deficiencies can pose significant risks to both the integrity of a building and its susceptibility to pest infestations. Addressing these deficiencies promptly can help maintain the safety and functionality of your property. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to identify and rectify common structural deficiencies.

Exterior Hotspots

1. Gaps Around Doors and Windows

• Inspection: Regularly check for gaps around doors and windows, as they can serve as entry points for pests.
• Solution: Install door sweeps and use caulk to seal gaps around windows.

2. Torn Window Screens

• Inspection: Inspect window and door screens for tears or damage.
• Solution: Repair or replace torn screens to prevent pests from entering.

3. Cracks, Crevices, and Gaps in Exterior Walls

• Inspection: Look for any cracks or gaps in the exterior walls of your building.
• Solution: Seal these gaps with appropriate materials to block pest entry.

Interior Hotspots

1. Open Doors and High Foot Traffic Areas

• Inspection: Observe loading docks and entryways that experience high foot traffic.
• Solution: Install air curtains or weather stripping to deter flying and crawling pests from entering.

2. Buildup and Grime in Drains

• Inspection: Check drains regularly for organic material buildup.
• Solution: Use a bio-enzymatic cleaner to remove grime and reduce pest attraction.

3. Clogged Gutters

• Inspection: Inspect gutters for twigs, leaves, and other debris.
• Solution: Clean out gutters regularly to prevent water overflow and potential roof leaks.

4. Indoor Leaks

• Inspection: Look for signs of leaks indoors, such as water stains or mold growth.
• Solution: Repair leaks promptly to eliminate water sources that attract pests

To learn how you can take steps to put an end to these structural worries, check out our expert tip sheet here.