DIY Danger Zone: What We Really Mean by ‘Seal Gaps’?
When pest professionals tell you to “seal gaps,” we’re not just talking about closing a door or stuffing a hole with steel wool. Sealing gaps is the process of finding and closing off any tiny openings in and around your home that pests can use to get inside. Mice can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime, and insects can exploit cracks so small you may not even notice them.
Common Places Where Gaps Hide
Homeowners are often surprised where pests slip in. Some of the most common spots include:
Door and window frames: Worn weather stripping or loose caulking.
Utility penetrations: Gaps where pipes, cables, or vents pass through walls.
Rooflines and attic vents: Openings where rodents or insects sneak in from above.
Garage doors: Damaged trim or missing seals along the bottom edge.
Foundation cracks: Even hairline openings can invite ants and spiders.
Why DIY Can Be Risky
Many DIY attempts involve foam spray or temporary plugs. While these might look sealed, pests can chew right through or find their way around them. Some foams even degrade in weather, leaving your home exposed again. Using the wrong material can make the problem worse.
How Professionals Do It Differently
At Paragon Pest Control, we use durable, pest-resistant materials like galvanized steel mesh, metal flashing, and weather-appropriate sealants. We don’t just cover the hole, we match the material to the type of pest we’re targeting, ensuring the barrier lasts. We’ll even paint over sealed areas to blend them with your home.
The Bottom Line
When you hear “seal gaps,” think beyond a quick patch job. True gap sealing means identifying every hidden opening and closing it with materials pests can’t beat.
If you’re in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and want it done right the first time, give us a call. We’ll help protect your home from pests trying to sneak their way inside.