The Hidden Entry Points Pests Use to Invade Your Home

You keep your doors shut, your windows closed, and your home clean—so how do pests keep finding their way inside? The truth is, many homeowners overlook the small, hidden entry points that pests like ants, spiders, cockroaches, and rodents use to sneak in. These gaps may be out of sight, but they’re a wide-open invitation for uninvited guests.

At Brooks Pest Control, we specialize in identifying these often-missed vulnerabilities. Here’s a look at the most common hidden entry points pests exploit—and how to seal them off for good.

1. Gaps Around Doors and Windows

Even the smallest gap beneath a door or around a window frame is an open door to pests. Weather stripping that’s worn out, cracked caulking, or improperly sealed thresholds create easy access points for ants, spiders, and even mice.

What to Do:

• Inspect door sweeps and weather stripping annually.
• Re-caulk window frames where sealant has deteriorated.
• Consider installing door seals that block even the smallest gaps.

2. Cracks in the Foundation

Over time, homes settle and small cracks can develop in the foundation. These crevices might seem insignificant to you, but to pests like cockroaches and ants, they’re a perfect entryway.

What to Do:

• Walk the perimeter of your home and check for cracks.
• Seal small cracks with silicone-based caulk.
• For larger gaps, consult a professional to ensure structural integrity.

3. Vents and Utility Lines

Dryer vents, attic vents, and areas where utility lines (water, gas, electrical) enter your home are notorious for small openings that pests exploit. Rodents, in particular, can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter-inch.

What to Do:

• Install mesh screens over exterior vents.
• Use steel wool or copper mesh to block gaps around utility penetrations, followed by a sealant.
• Check these areas seasonally to ensure they remain sealed.

4. Rooflines, Chimneys, and Eaves

Birds, squirrels, and insects often find their way into attics through gaps in rooflines, loose shingles, or uncapped chimneys. Once inside, they can create nests and attract other pests.

What to Do:

• Inspect your roofline and eaves for loose panels or shingles.
• Install chimney caps to block animal access.
• Trim tree branches away from the roof to reduce pest highways.

5. Garage Door Gaps

Garages often have small gaps along the bottom or sides of the door, which are frequently overlooked. These serve as a main highway for pests entering your home.

What to Do:

• Install a tight-fitting garage door sweep.
• Seal any cracks or holes in garage walls.
• Avoid leaving the garage door open for extended periods.

6. Plumbing Gaps Under Sinks

Inside your home, areas under sinks where plumbing pipes enter can have gaps or spaces. These are perfect hiding and entry spots for cockroaches and other moisture-loving pests.

What to Do:

• Seal gaps with expanding foam or caulk.
• Regularly check under sinks for signs of moisture or pest activity.
• Don’t Let Hidden Gaps Invite Pests In

Pest prevention starts with sealing off their entry points. However, many of these vulnerabilities aren’t obvious to the untrained eye. That’s where Brooks Pest Control comes in. Our experienced technicians know exactly where to look and how to protect your home from pest invasions—before they become a problem.

Ready for a thorough inspection?

Call Brooks Pest Control today for a free consultation and let’s keep pests where they belong—outside your home.