How to Prevent Pill Bugs: Tips for Tennessee Homeowners
Pill Bugs in Tennessee
As a type of crustacean called woodlouse, the pill bug (aka roly-poly) is commonly found under logs or other kinds of wood. These small crustaceans are naturally attracted to moist soil conditions, decaying plant material, and indoor areas with water sources. While generally harmless, pill bugs can damage edible crops in gardens and become a nuisance when they enter your home in large numbers.
Pill Bug Prevention Tips
Outdoor Prevention Tips
Preventing pill bugs begins with your outdoor environment and landscaping. Focus on eliminating moisture and debris, particularly near entry points to your home:- Store firewood elevated off the ground
- Water your lawn in the morning so it can dry during the afternoon
- Avoid overwatering that creates consistently wet soil conditions
- Empty any standing water near entry points
- Create a barrier around your home’s perimeter that’s free of mulch, shrubs, tree limbs, and other materials under which pill bugs like to nest
Moisture Management
Since pill bugs require damp conditions to survive, controlling moisture is essential for prevention:
- Fix leaky outdoor faucets and pipes promptly
- Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your foundation
- Properly ventilate your basement and crawl spaces to eliminate excess moisture
- Consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas of your home
Home Entry Prevention
Seal potential entry points to keep pill bugs from making their way inside:
- Repair openings around your foundation, walls, windows, and doors
- Apply caulk or weather stripping to seal small cracks and gaps
- Install door sweeps on exterior doors
- Inspect and repair damaged screens on windows and vents
Indoor Prevention
If pill bugs do make their way inside, these measures can help discourage them:
- Fix leaky indoor plumbing promptly
- Keep bathrooms, kitchens, and basements dry and well-ventilated
- Store pet food in sealed containers
- Regularly inspect and clean dark, damp areas where pill bugs might gathe
Trust U.S. Pest for Pill Bug Prevention
Prevention is key to successfully keeping pill bugs away from your Tennessee home. However, if these crawly crustaceans are already a problem despite your best efforts, it’s time to call the experts.
At U.S. Pest, our trained professionals can identify entry points, address conducive conditions, and create a personalized pill bug prevention plan so you can enjoy a pest-free space. Our experts understand the specific challenges Tennessee homeowners face with pill bugs and can implement effective, long-lasting solutions.
