When you care about your home, paying attention to the small details makes a big difference. This February, showing your home a little extra love means knowing what to watch for and addressing concerns early—before pests settle in and overstay their welcome.

Your home does a lot for you—it shelters your family, protects your belongings, and gives you peace of mind. One of the best ways to return the favor is by catching pest problems early, before they turn into costly or disruptive issues.

In McKinney, Texas, pest activity is common due to rapid growth, nearby greenbelts, creeks, and established neighborhoods. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that pest problems often start quietly. By the time pests are obvious, they’ve usually been around longer than expected.

Here are some early warning signs McKinney homeowners should watch for.

Unusual Sounds—Especially at Night

Scratching, scurrying, or light tapping sounds inside walls, ceilings, or attics—particularly after dark—can indicate rodent activity. Rats and mice are nocturnal and often enter homes seeking warmth, food, or shelter.
Why it matters in McKinney: Rodents commonly travel between neighboring homes, fence lines, greenbelt areas, and drainage corridors.

Droppings or Debris

Small droppings in garages, pantries, utility rooms, or along baseboards are often one of the first visible signs of rodent activity. You may also notice shed insect wings, wood shavings, or fine dirt near walls or entry points.
Tip: Even minimal debris usually indicates active pests—not just past visitors.

Ant Trails or Increased Insect Sightings

Seeing ants indoors during cooler months may not seem concerning, but consistent activity often means a colony is nearby. Ants are especially common in McKinney homes as temperatures fluctuate between warm days and cooler nights.
Early action helps: What starts as a few ants in February can become a larger issue by spring.

Moisture Issues or Musty Odors

Many pests are attracted to moisture. Damp areas under sinks, around HVAC units, in crawl spaces, or near foundations can draw insects, rodents, and termites.

Watch for:
• Condensation or standing water
• Soft or warped wood
• Persistent musty odors
These conditions often invite pests before homeowners realize there’s a problem.

Damage Without an Obvious Cause

Chewed cardboard, gnawed wiring, damaged insulation, or small holes near walls and foundations are red flags. Rodents chew continuously, while termites and other pests can cause structural damage quietly and out of sight.
Important note: Minor damage can escalate quickly if pests remain active.

Outdoor Clues Around Your McKinney Home

Many pest problems begin outdoors before moving inside. Be alert to:
• Burrows or small holes near foundations
• Increased insect activity in mulch or landscaping
• Overgrown shrubs touching the home
• Standing water after rainfall
In North Texas, yard conditions play a major role in pest activity.

Why Early Detection Matters

Addressing pest issues early allows for:
• More targeted, preventative solutions
• Less disruption to daily life
• Lower long-term costs
• Reduced risk of property damage
Professional inspections are designed to identify subtle signs before they turn into major concerns.

A Little Love Goes a Long Way

February is a great reminder that loving your home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about protecting what’s behind the walls. Staying alert to early pest warning signs helps keep your McKinney home comfortable, safe, and stress-free all year long.

Home Run Pest & Termite Control is proud to serve McKinney homeowners with preventative pest solutions, inspections, and local expertise. If you have questions or notice early signs of pest activity, a professional inspection can provide clarity and peace of mind—long before pests make themselves at home.

Home Run Pest & Termite Control
We knock pests out of the park.

Call: 972-800-6354
Visit: https://homerunpest.com