How to Keep Your Garage Pest-Free in Florida’s Warm Climate

Florida’s warm and humid climate makes it a paradise for residents but, unfortunately, also for unwanted pests. From ants and roaches to rodents and snakes, garages in Florida can become a hot spot for infestations if they’re not properly maintained. Because garages offer shelter, warmth, and sometimes food sources, they can quickly become a breeding ground for pests, especially during the cooler months when animals seek refuge indoors.

At On Track Doors, we know that your garage is an integral part of your home, and keeping it pest-free helps protect your property and belongings. Here are some practical steps to keep unwanted guests out of your garage, ensuring it stays clean, safe, and pest-free all year.

1. Seal Any Entry Points to the Garage

The first step in keeping pests out of your garage is eliminating possible entry points. Even small gaps or cracks around your garage door, walls, or foundation can invite insects and rodents.

• Check the garage door seal – Over time, the rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door can wear down or crack, creating a gap that allows pests to crawl in. If you see a gap when the door is closed, replacing the weather stripping will ensure a tight seal against the ground.

• Keep your garage door maintained - If your garage door doesn’t close completely due to misaligned tracks or another issue, it could create small openings for pests. Regular inspections and maintenance by a professional can help ensure your garage door is properly sealed.

• Inspect for cracks and gaps – Small openings around windows, the roofline, vents, or utility lines are common entry points. Use caulk or foam insulation to seal these gaps and prevent pests from squeezing through.

• Keep the garage door closed – Leaving the garage door open for long periods, especially at night, makes it easy for pests to enter undetected.

2. Eliminate Moisture and Humidity in the Garage

Florida’s humidity is one of the biggest factors contributing to pest infestations. Many pests, including roaches, termites, and mosquitoes, thrive in damp environments. Keeping your garage dry can help deter these unwanted visitors.

• Use a dehumidifier or fan – If your garage tends to stay humid, using a dehumidifier or a fan can help reduce moisture levels and make the space less inviting for pests.

• Eliminate standing water - Do not leave buckets, sinks, puddles, etc., with water in your garage. This is the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, who like to lay their eggs in standing water, as the water provides the larvae with nutrients. 

• Fix leaks immediately – If you notice any leaking pipes or condensation buildup, address them right away to prevent standing water from occurring.

• Store items in plastic bins instead of cardboard – Cardboard boxes absorb moisture and provide the perfect home for cockroaches and silverfish. Opt for plastic storage bins to keep your belongings safe and pest-free.

3. Keep Your Garage Clutter-Free

Pests love hiding in dark, undisturbed spaces. A cluttered garage gives them plenty of places to nest, making it harder to spot an infestation until it’s too late.

• Organize and declutter regularly – Store items on shelves or cabinets instead of piling them on the floor, which can attract rodents and insects.

• Avoid storing food in the garage – Pet food, birdseed, and even certain household supplies can attract ants and rodents. If you must store food items, keep them in sealed, airtight containers.

• Sweep and clean the garage floor – Regularly sweeping away dust, crumbs, and debris helps eliminate food sources that could attract pests.

4. Use Natural Pest Deterrents

Chemical pesticides can be effective, but if you prefer a safer, more natural approach, there are several ways to deter pests without using harsh chemicals.

• Cedarwood and peppermint oil – Mice and insects dislike the smell of cedar and peppermint. Soaking cotton balls in peppermint oil and placing them in corners or entry points can help repel pests.

• Diatomaceous earth – Sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth along the perimeter of your garage can help deter crawling insects like roaches and ants.

• Keep spiders in check – While spiders might seem like unwanted guests, they help control other pest populations, such as mosquitoes and ants. However, if they become a problem, using a vinegar-water spray along windows and door frames can help keep them at bay.

5. Prevent Rodents and Larger Pests

While insects can be a nuisance, rodents and snakes can also make their way into your garage in search of shelter.

• Keep firewood and trash bins away from the garage – Storing firewood, garbage, or compost too close to your garage can attract rats and other pests. Keep these items at least 20 feet away from your home when possible.

• Use rodent-proof traps and deterrents – If you suspect rodents are in your garage, placing rodent traps or ultrasonic deterrents can help keep them at bay.

• Trim back vegetation – Overgrown plants or bushes near your garage can provide hiding spots for rodents, snakes, and insects. Keep landscaping well-maintained to reduce the risk of pests finding their way inside.

Keep Your Garage Pest-Free with On Track Doors

A clean, dry, well-sealed garage is the best defense against pests in Florida’s warm climate. By taking these proactive steps, you can keep unwanted insects and rodents out of your garage year-round.

If your garage door isn’t sealing properly, or if you’re considering upgrading to a more secure, pest-resistant garage door, On Track Doors can help. We provide expert garage door maintenance, repairs, and installations throughout Southwest Florida to ensure your garage stays protected.

Contact us today to schedule a garage door inspection and keep your home pest-free!