Protect Your Home from Summer Pests Before They Invade
Summer in Southeast Alaska brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and—unfortunately—a whole lot of pests. From buzzing wasps to persistent ants and filthy flies, pests don’t wait for an invitation. As the weather heats up, these insects come out in full force, seeking food, water, and shelter in and around your home.
But here’s the good news: you can stop the invasion before it starts.
The Most Common Summer Pests in Southeast Alaska
🐜 Ants
They’re tiny, but relentless. Once a single ant finds food, it leaves a chemical trail that leads the rest of the colony straight to your kitchen, deck, or pantry. Carpenter ants are especially dangerous because they tunnel through wood and can cause structural damage.
🪰 Flies
Flies aren’t just annoying—they spread bacteria. House flies, drain flies, and cluster flies thrive in warm, humid environments and are attracted to garbage, food scraps, and pet waste.
🐝 Wasps
Wasps become more aggressive in late summer, especially if nests are disturbed. These pests love sugary drinks, meat, and sweets left out during picnics and BBQs. A sting isn’t just painful—it can be dangerous for those with allergies.
🕷️ Spiders (and Their Prey)
While not as aggressive, spiders follow the food source. If you’re seeing more webs, it’s likely because other pests (like flies and ants) are already present.
Why Summer Brings an Influx of Pests
Insects are cold-blooded and rely on external heat to regulate body temperature and function. Warmer weather activates their metabolism and reproduction cycles. More heat = more pests.
Here’s what makes your home a target:
- Increased outdoor cooking and eating = more food scraps
- Higher humidity = better conditions for breeding
- Open windows and doors = easy access points
- Cluttered yards = prime nesting areas
What’s Attracting Pests to Your Home?
Pests don’t just randomly wander into your space. They’re driven by three basic needs:
- Food:
Crumbs, fruit, garbage, pet food, and even grease on your grill can attract unwanted attention. - Water:
Standing water in birdbaths, clogged gutters, and leaky faucets can all act as hydration stations. - Shelter:
Overgrown vegetation, woodpiles, cracks in siding, and cluttered sheds provide the perfect hiding and nesting spots.
Prevention Tips That Actually Work
Now that we know the “why,” here’s the “how.” These prevention strategies will help safeguard your home from common summer pests:
🧹 Inside the Home
- Seal all entry points: Use caulk or foam to close up cracks around windows, doors, and foundation.
- Clean regularly: Keep floors and countertops free of crumbs and spills.
- Store food properly: Use airtight containers and avoid leaving fruit out in the open.
- Take out the trash frequently: And clean the bins themselves, especially outdoors.
- Fix moisture issues: Repair leaking pipes, check under sinks, and use dehumidifiers if needed.
🌳 Outside the Home
- Keep gutters clean: Remove debris and ensure proper drainage.
- Trim vegetation: Bushes and trees should not touch your home’s exterior.
- Manage compost and trash: Keep bins sealed and far from entry points.
- Move woodpiles away from structures: These are magnets for ants and spiders.
- Use yellow outdoor lighting: This type of light is less attractive to flying insects like flies and wasps.
🍖 Around the Grill and Patio
- Clean up BBQ messes immediately
- Cover food and drinks outdoors
- Avoid sugary beverages sitting out
- Rinse recyclables before tossing them in bins
Spot the Early Warning Signs
Early detection can save you time, stress, and money. Watch for:
- Ant trails along counters, baseboards, or decks
- Increased fly activity near sinks, drains, or trash
- Paper-like wasp nests under eaves, decks, or in trees
- Unusual pet behavior, like barking at baseboards or swatting at the air
Why a Professional Inspection Matters
Even with the best DIY efforts, pests can still find a way in. A professional inspection with Alaska Pest Management includes:
- A full interior and exterior assessment
- Identification of pest activity and entry points
- Recommendations for sealing and cleanup
- Safe, effective treatment plans
- Long-term prevention strategies
Our team uses industry-leading tools and environmentally friendly products that are safe for your family and pets. We understand Southeast Alaska’s climate and the unique pest challenges that come with it.
Seasonal Services That Make a Difference
Our summer pest control programs are designed to:
- Target seasonal invaders before they nest
- Eliminate current pest problems
- Prevent infestations from spreading into fall
We also offer:
- Monthly or quarterly treatments
- One-time inspections before major events (like outdoor weddings or BBQs)
Custom service plans based on your home’s needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are carpenter ants active in the summer?
Yes—summer is peak season for carpenter ant activity, especially after long, wet springs.
Q: What should I do if I find a wasp nest?
Don’t try to remove it yourself. Wasps can become aggressive. Call a pest professional to safely remove the nest.
Q: How do I know if I have a fly infestation or just a few flies?
If flies are consistently present, especially near drains or garbage, it’s worth investigating further.
Q: Are pest control treatments safe for kids and pets?
Yes. At Alaska Pest Management, we prioritize safe and environmentally responsible products.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Waiting until you have a full-blown infestation is risky. Summer pests can cause damage, health issues, and serious stress—but with a proactive approach, you can enjoy the season comfortably and confidently.
Don’t wait for pests to make the first move—schedule a home inspection with Alaska Pest Management today.
Let us help you make your home a no-fly (or ant, or wasp) zone this summer.
