How to Keep Bugs & Pests Out of Your Basement

Every home has a secret space; that dark and dusty place where if you look too closely, you feel a little afraid. For many homes, that place is the basement. It probably doesn’t help that basements are the actual setting of many spooky stories, or that they may be poorly lit, slightly unfinished, and just generally designed to give you the heebie-jeebies. One of the most terrifying things is finally gathering the courage to brave the basement, and then you end up seeing something scurrying back into the darkness.

Basement pests and bugs are a common issue for homeowners. These unwelcome intruders may try to make your basement their cozy new home, causing damage and health concerns. Never fear though, here you’ll find tips to help you through identifying common basement pests, understanding why they are drawn to this space, and how to get rid of them for good.

Importance of Addressing Pest Infestations in the Basement

Aside from the ick factor, basement pest infestations are more than just a nuisance. They can have a significant impact on your home, your personal property, and your family’s well-being:

• Structural Damage: Pests like termites can chew through wood and insulation, compromising the structural integrity of your home. Meanwhile, rodents may damage electrical wiring and utility lines, creating a fire risk!
• Health Risks: Some pests can carry diseases harmful to you, your family, and even your pets. Cockroaches and rodents have been known for triggering allergies and asthma symptoms. Furthermore, some of the remedies for these pests can be just as harmful, doubling the health risks.  
• Decreased Home Value: A pest-infested basement, or a home with pest damage can lower the resale value of your property and impact insurance rates.
• Unpleasant Odors: Rodents and other household pests can leave behind waste and unpleasant odors, making your basement less inviting. The odor may linger on stored items even after the issue is resolved or the items are moved, requiring special care and cleaning.

With these risks in mind, let’s delve into identifying common basement pests and understanding why they find your space so appealing.

Identification of Common Bugs and Pests Found in Basements

Whether you have an unquenchable curiosity, or aversion to the site of anything with too many legs, you’ll want to know what kind of bugs are commonly found in basements. Knowing what you’re dealing with will make it easier to resolve the situation, and it might even give you a new perspective on these creepy crawly critters.

Cockroaches – Roaches can be identified by their brown or black coloring, with flattened, oval bodies and long antennae. These bugs can transmit diseases, trigger allergies, and contaminate food.

Spiders – There are various types of spiders found in basements. Some, like the black widow and brown recluse, are venomous and should be approached with caution. The primary concern with spiders is the threat to human health due to their venom. It should be noted that spiders can be beneficial pests, helping to control other insect populations.

Rodents – Signs of mice to look for include droppings, chewed items, and nests. Rodents can cause significant structural and electrical damage and spread diseases.

Termites – Identify an infestation by looking for mud tunnels, damaged wood, or discarded wings. Termites are problematic because they can silently destroy the wood in your home.

Other common basement insects include: House Centipedes, Silverfish, Earwigs, Millipedes, Crickets (Chirping), and Pill Bugs.

Each of these pests can cause their unique set of problems, from property damage and health risks, to simply being a nuisance.

Why Pests are Attracted to the Basement

Understanding why pests are drawn to basements can help you address the root causes of infestations.

Many pests are attracted to moisture. Damp environments like basements provide an ideal environment for them to thrive. Termites and silverfish are particularly drawn to damp spaces.

Basements also often have many dark corners and hidden crevices that provide shelter for pests. Spiders and rodents seek the darkness and concealment these hidden spaces provide.

Basements often include a wide availability of food sources. Many people store organic materials like cardboard boxes, paper, and fabrics in their basements, which attract rodents and insects. Pests that feed on insects, like centipedes, will be drawn to the presence of other bugs.

Now that we understand the reasons behind pest infestations, let’s explore how to keep them away from your basement.

How to Keep Pests Away from the Basement Area

Seal Entry Points

• Identify and Caulk Crevices: Inspect your basement for cracks, holes, and gaps, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Use steel wool or hardware cloth to block larger openings.
• Managing Floor Drains and Windows: Ensure that floor drains and windows are properly sealed and maintained to prevent pests from entering.

Maintain Dryness

• Use Dehumidifiers: Keeping humidity levels in check will discourage pests like termites and silverfish.
• Addressing Water Leakage: Fix any dripping faucets, leaky pipes, and appliances to eliminate water sources for pests.

Limit Accessibility to Food

• Proper Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers to make it less accessible to pests. This goes for pet food too!
• Routine Clean Up and Organization: Regularly clean your basement and declutter to remove hiding spots and food sources for pests. This has the added benefit of helping keep your property in good condition and will make it easier to identify a pest problem before it escalates into a serious infestation.

Repellent Strategies

• Stay Away® Pouches for Prevention: EarthKind’s Stay Away pouches can deter pests like mice, cockroaches, and spiders. Place them strategically in your basement near potential entry points, valuable items, and anywhere there are signs of pest activity.

In summary, keeping your basement free of pests is not only a matter of comfort but also a significant aspect of home maintenance. To recap, here are the key steps to mitigate pest issues in your basement:

Remember, a clean, organized, and well-maintained basement is less appealing to pests. By implementing these measures, you can protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind from the unwanted guests that tend to take refuge in your basement.