Your garage is meant for storing cars, tools, and outdoor gear—not for housing bugs, rodents, and other pests. Unfortunately, garages provide the perfect shelter for critters looking for warmth, food, and protection from the elements. Once pests find their way in, they can cause damage, create unsanitary conditions, and even make their way into your home.
At State Line Garage Doors, we understand that keeping your garage pest-free is just as important as keeping it secure and functional. Here’s how you can protect your garage from unwanted invaders year-round.
1. Seal Any Gaps and Entry Points
The smallest cracks and gaps can be an open invitation for pests. Bugs, mice, and even small snakes can squeeze through surprisingly small openings.
✔ Inspect your garage door for gaps – If you notice daylight coming through the sides or bottom, your weather stripping may need to be replaced.
✔ Check for cracks in walls and the foundation – Use caulk or expanding foam to seal any holes or openings.
✔ Make sure windows are properly sealed – If your garage has windows, check for gaps around the frames and apply weatherproofing as needed.
Pro Tip: If you frequently deal with rodents, consider installing a rodent-proof brush seal on the bottom of your garage door.
2. Upgrade Your Garage Door Weather Stripping
One of the biggest culprits for pest invasions is a worn-out garage door seal. Over time, weather stripping becomes cracked or loose, making it easy for bugs and rodents to squeeze through.
✔ Inspect your garage door seal at least once a year – If it’s brittle, torn, or missing, replace it immediately.
✔ Install a bottom seal if your garage door doesn’t have one – This prevents pests from crawling in through the small space beneath your door.
✔ Check for gaps along the sides of your garage door – If necessary, install side and top seals to keep pests out.
Pro Tip: A properly sealed garage door doesn’t just keep bugs out—it also improves insulation and keeps your garage more energy efficient!
3. Keep Your Garage Clean and Clutter-Free
A cluttered garage gives pests plenty of places to hide and nest. Reducing clutter can significantly minimize the chance of an infestation.
✔ Avoid storing cardboard boxes – Rodents love to chew on cardboard and use it for nesting. Opt for plastic storage bins instead.
✔ Sweep and remove debris regularly – Bugs are attracted to dirt, dust, and organic material. A clean garage is far less inviting.
✔ Get rid of standing water – Mosquitoes and other insects thrive in damp areas. Make sure your garage stays dry.
Pro Tip: If you must store pet food, birdseed, or grass seed in your garage, keep it in airtight, sealed containers to prevent attracting rodents.
4. Keep Outdoor Areas Well-Maintained
Your garage is only as pest-proof as the surrounding environment. If your yard is overgrown or cluttered, it increases the likelihood of pests sneaking into your garage.
✔ Trim bushes and trees away from the garage – Overhanging branches provide easy access for insects and rodents.
✔ Move firewood away from the garage – Stacks of wood attract termites, ants, and rodents. Store firewood at least 20 feet from your home.
✔ Fix any drainage issues – Poor drainage can create puddles near your garage, attracting mosquitoes and other pests.
5. Use Natural Pest Deterrents
You don’t have to use harsh chemicals to keep pests away. Many natural solutions are effective at deterring insects and rodents.
✔ Cedarwood chips or essential oils – Cedar naturally repels moths, cockroaches, and silverfish.
✔ Peppermint oil – Mice, spiders, and ants hate the smell of peppermint. Add a few drops to cotton balls and place them around entry points.
✔ Diatomaceous earth – This powdery substance is safe for humans but lethal to insects like ants and cockroaches. Sprinkle it around the perimeter of your garage.
Pro Tip: If you’re dealing with a severe pest problem, consider setting up humane traps or contacting a pest control professional.
6. Inspect Your Garage Door and Schedule Maintenance
A garage door that doesn’t close properly or has damaged panels is an open invitation for pests. Regular garage door maintenance ensures that your door seals tightly and operates correctly.
✔ Check for misaligned tracks – A door that doesn’t close all the way leaves an entry point for pests.
✔ Lubricate moving parts – Keeping your door’s hinges and rollers in good condition ensures a secure closure.
✔ Schedule a professional garage door inspection – If you’re experiencing issues, a technician can make necessary adjustments to keep your garage sealed and pest-free.
At State Line Garage Doors, we specialize in garage door maintenance, repairs, and weatherproofing solutions to help keep your garage secure from unwanted pests.
Final Thoughts: A Pest-Free Garage is a Secure Garage
Keeping bugs and rodents out of your garage isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your property and maintaining a clean, safe environment. With the right preventive measures, you can keep pests at bay year-round and avoid costly damage.
🚪 Need help sealing your garage against pests? Contact State Line Garage Doors today for expert garage door maintenance and weatherproofing services.
📞 Call us now to schedule your garage door inspection and keep pests out for good!