Keep Arizona Critters Out This Winter: How to Seal and Protect Your Garage Door from Unwanted Guests
As winter approaches, many homeowners in Arizona face an influx of uninvited guests. While family and friends are welcome, scorpions, spiders, snakes, rodents, and insects are not. Cooler temperatures drive these critters to seek warmth and shelter, and your garage is often a prime target. Here’s how to protect your garage from these unwelcome intruders.
Common Critters to Watch For in Arizona During Winter
When the temperatures drop, many critters seek refuge from the cold. Arizona’s unique climate makes it a hotspot for specific pests looking for warmth. Some of the most common garage invaders include:
- Scorpions: These arachnids thrive in warm, dark spaces and can squeeze through small gaps.
- Spiders: Many species of spiders look for warm, dry areas to spin their webs.
- Snakes: Cold-blooded snakes seek out warm, sheltered spots to regulate their body temperature.
- Rodents: Mice and rats are notorious for chewing through materials to create nests inside garages.
- Insects: Cockroaches, ants, and crickets often invade garages in search of food, water, and warmth.
As these critters look for shelter during colder months, they’re more likely to find your garage’s weak spots and sneak inside.
How Critters Get In Through Your Garage Door
Critters are resourceful, and your garage door may have more entry points than you think. Here are the most common ways pests find their way inside:
- Gaps at the Bottom, Sides, and Top of the Door: Even small gaps provide easy access for insects, spiders, and scorpions.
- Damaged Weather Stripping, Seals, or Door Frames: Over time, weather stripping and seals wear down, creating entry points for critters.
- Cracks or Holes in Garage Walls or Foundation: Tiny cracks in the walls or foundation may seem insignificant, but small pests like insects and spiders can easily slip through.
By identifying these entry points, you can take the necessary steps to secure your garage and prevent infestations.
Essential Tips to Critter-Proof Your Garage Door
Protecting your garage from unwanted critters doesn’t have to be a major project. These simple and effective tips will help you seal off entry points and create a strong defense:
- Inspect and Replace Weather Stripping
- Check the rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door. If it’s cracked, brittle, or worn, replace it immediately.
- Quality weather stripping not only blocks critters but also keeps out rain, dirt, and cold air.
- Install Garage Door Threshold Seals
- A threshold seal is a durable, heavy-duty barrier that attaches to the ground beneath your garage door.
- It provides a tight seal that prevents pests, water, and debris from entering.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks
- Use caulk or foam sealant to fill any small gaps around the door frame or cracks in the concrete.
- Focus on areas where the garage door meets the ground or walls, as these are prime entry points for small critters.
- Upgrade to a Critter-Proof Garage Door
- If your garage door is old or damaged, consider upgrading to a modern door with a built-in, heavy-duty bottom seal.
- Newer garage doors have stronger seals and better insulation, keeping pests out and reducing energy loss.
- Install Door Sweeps and Side Seals
- Door sweeps are simple attachments for the sides and top of your garage door.
- These seals block gaps that insects and spiders might otherwise crawl through.
Routine Maintenance Tips to Prevent Critter Infestations
Sealing your garage door is a strong first step, but ongoing maintenance is essential for long-term protection. Here’s how to stay ahead of critter infestations:
- Check for Signs of Critter Activity: Look for droppings, chew marks, and nests. Early detection allows for quicker action.
- Keep the Garage Clean and Organized: Cluttered areas provide hiding spots for critters. Store items in sealed, airtight containers, and keep floors clean.
- Schedule Annual Garage Door Inspections: A professional inspection ensures that your weather stripping, seals, and overall door integrity remain intact. Small issues can be fixed before they become major problems.
Don’t wait until you spot a scorpion or rodent in your garage. Be proactive this winter by inspecting and sealing your garage door. Schedule a professional garage door inspection to ensure your home is fully protected. Many companies offer free inspections or promotions for winter readiness—take advantage of these offers and keep your home critter-free.