Boxelder bugs, also known as box elder bugs, typically stay outdoors during the spring and summer months. However, when fall comes along they will seek out a warm, comfortable place to hibernate for the summer. While these bugs are harmless, non-toxic and don’t destroy property or plants, it’s never pleasant to have bugs in the home.
Box elder bugs are red with black stripes and the only real damage they can do is to leave stains on your floor and surfaces. If you happen to have a box elder tree within your garden, you’re much more likely to have an infestation in your home. Their numbers can range in the hundreds per colony and your best bet to keep them out of your home is to carefully seal it.
The first step in sealing your home is to look for cracks around the house. Begin in the summer as the box elder bugs are enjoying the warm months, as they’re likely to later attempt to enter your home in the same areas in which they congregate during the summer months. Look for cracks all around your foundation and fill or cover any cracks you see. Remember that these are very small bugs and that once one makes its way in your home, the rest of the colony is soon to follow.
When inspecting your property for likely places box elder bugs will enter, remember that they prefer warm, sunny areas. As a result, pay special attention to the southern and east sides of your home or areas without shade that get more sunlight than the rest of your property. Look for any holes, cracks or areas that box elder bugs might be able to enter through. This includes any gaps between your windows and your windowsills, doors that don’t close completely, holes in screens and cracks in your foundation.
Solid silicone caulking material can go a long way towards fixing these problem areas. It can be used on many surfaces and can fill both gaps and holes. However, remember that it is a permanent solution. You don’t want to close your windows for good, you simply want any gaps to be closed off. Screens with holes should be repaired and while this will require an initial investment, it’s much less expensive and time consuming that dealing with a box elder bug invasion.
Weather stripping can also help with doors and windows. The purpose of this material is to keep cold air out of your home during the winter and keep the heat out in the summer, but it can also help to keep bugs out of your home. Weather stripping kits are simple to install and can be purchased at most any hardware store or online.
While it might seem time consuming to search your property for every little hole, gap or rip in a screen, keep in mind that a few hours now can prevent an entire winter of trying to get rid of an infestation. The solutions above are permanent ones that will help keep your home safe for years to come.