If you are doing a kitchen remodel, this is a great time to do some basic pest proofing. Keeping this area free of food crumbs is just the start. Bugs and rodents have other reasons for visiting your kitchen - warmth, shelter, and moisture. Here are some tips for keeping pest problems to a minimum:

Remodeled Kitchen

Check the exterior of your home outside the kitchen. Seal any cracks or openings that may allow critters to infiltrate. Pay special attention to entry points for pipes. Use weather stripping or caulk to fix any gaps around windows or doors in your kitchen.

If your kitchen adjoins your garage, this is particularly important. Garages are usually not well sealed and pests can easily enter from outdoors. If you keep pet food or organic material like mulch in your garage, it is very likely that there are bugs present.

Check all the plumbing in your kitchen including the sink, dishwasher, and the water line to your refrigerator. Fix any leaks or drips to discourage pests. Replace any water-damaged or mold infested particle board.

When you repaint your kitchen or resurface the floor, take advantage of this opportunity to move all your appliances away from the walls. Check behind them for egg casings and rodent droppings that may indicate an infestation.

Are you installing new appliances? Choose built in models that don’t leave gaps between the countertop and the unit. That way you don’t have to worry about food crumbs or spills between the counter and the fridge or stove.