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The time it takes for termites to damage a house varies, but it generally does not happen within days or weeks. Significant structural damage typically takes several months or years to occur, with serious damage often taking 3 to 8 years. The rate of destruction depends on factors like the termite colony's size and maturity, the type of wood they are feeding on, and local conditions. It can take 3 to 5 years for damage to become visible and 5 to 6 years for the home's structural integrity to be compromised. However, some species, such as Subterranean termites, are more destructive and can cause extensive damage in as little as 2 years. Because of this risk, it is important to treat your home as soon as you notice any signs of termites.

If you’ve had a prior bat infestation or simply want to avoid having bats invade your home in the first place, there are a few steps you can take without the need for a pro. 

• Seal entry points, such as where your chimney meets your house, or other gaps or holes exist.

• Use bat deterrents like bright lights or ultrasonic devices to force them away from your home. 

• Reduce bat attractions like standing water and bird nectar feeders inviting bats into your yard.

Trapping is generally not recommended, as even gentle traps can become as inhumane as kill traps if a rabbit is caught and stuck for several days. Additionally, capturing one rabbit isn’t likely to prevent other rabbits from wandering your yard. If you choose this method, it's essential to use live traps designed for humane capture and release of the rabbits in a suitable, safe habitat far from your property. Be sure to set a reminder and check the trap at least twice per day.

Aside from a warm, cozy place to curl up, you might wonder what attracts mice to your home. Several items attract mice, including: Birdseed Pet food Water Cereal and whole grains Food scraps from the composting bin Open trash cans High-fat and high-sugar foods Unused cars—they make great homes for chilly mice Insulation in the attic Clutter Brush from your yard, including leaves, sticks, wood, and shrubs (so mice can make nests) Overgrown trees or bushes—mice love to leap from branches onto the roof Indoor nesting materials, including cloth, paper, tissues, and toilet paper Tiny cracks in the siding or foundation