Summer is in full swing, and that means plenty of outdoor activities. If you’re like most people, your garage is a central part of your summer routine. But did you know that wasps love to nest in garages too? Every summer, wasps seem to find their way into our garages. This can be a real problem, especially if you have allergies. In this blog post, we will share some tips on how to keep wasps out of garage. Keep reading for more information.
Summary: To keep wasps out of your garage, you can start by sealing all the cracks and gaps in your garage’s walls, floors and doors. You can use natural repellents like peppermint oil or citrus sprays or hang fake wasp nests to deter them. Lastly, remember to remove any existing wasp nests as soon as you detect them, as they can quickly grow and pose a risk.
What Causes Wasps to Nest in Garages?
There are a few reasons why wasps might nest in your garage. First, garages provide plenty of hiding places for wasps. Second, wasps are attracted to dark, secluded areas. If your garage is cluttered, has cracks in the walls, or is otherwise not well-sealed, wasps will be able to find their way in.
Another reason why wasps might nest in your garage is that they are attracted to the food that is stored there. Wasps are drawn to sweet smells, so if you have food stored in your garage, they will be attracted to it. However, even if you don’t have food in your garage, wasps may still nest if they find other food sources nearby.
The other major reason why wasps nest in garages is because they are looking for a place to build their nests. Wasps will build their nests in any location that provides them with shelter and protection. If your garage meets these criteria, wasps will be more likely to nest there.
12 Easy Steps How to Keep Wasps Out of Garage:
Step 1: Inspect Your Garage for Existing Wasp Nests
Before taking any measures to keep wasps out of your garage, inspect the space thoroughly for any existing nests. Look for nests in corners, under shelves, and around windows or doors. If you find any nests, proceed with caution and consider contacting a professional pest control service to remove them safely.
Step 2: Remove Attractants
Wasps are attracted to food sources, water, and nesting materials. To reduce the likelihood of wasps entering your garage, remove potential attractants:
- Clean up food and drink spills immediately.
- Store trash in sealed containers.
- Keep pet food in airtight containers and promptly clean up after your pets.
- Fix any leaking pipes, faucets, or hoses.
- Remove woodpiles, old newspapers, or other materials that could serve as nesting sites.
Step 3: Seal Entry Points
Inspect your garage for potential entry points and seal them to prevent wasps from entering:
- Install weatherstripping around doors and windows.
- Use caulk or expandable foam to seal any cracks or gaps in the walls, foundation, or roof.
- Repair or replace damaged window screens or vents.
- Close garage doors and windows when not in use.
Step 4: Use Wasp Deterrents
There are several natural and chemical deterrents available to keep wasps away from your garage:
- Natural deterrents: Wasps are repelled by strong smells, such as peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and cloves. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and spray the solution around the garage’s perimeter, focusing on potential entry points.
- Wasp traps: Commercially available wasp traps can be used to capture and kill wasps. Place the traps around the exterior of your garage to prevent wasps from entering. Remember to empty and clean the traps regularly.
- Wasp sprays: Use wasp sprays designed to repel or kill wasps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
Step 5: Install Wasp-Repelling Lights
Wasps are attracted to bright white lights. Replace your garage’s exterior lights with yellow or sodium vapor bulbs, which are less attractive to wasps. Additionally, consider installing motion-activated lights to minimize the time the lights are on, further reducing the attraction for wasps.
Step 6: Use Decoy Wasp Nests
Some species of wasps are territorial and will avoid areas where other wasp nests are present. Install decoy wasp nests around the exterior of your garage to discourage wasps from building nests nearby. Decoy nests are available for purchase or can be made at home using a crumpled paper bag.
Step 7: Keep Your Garage Clean and Organized
A clean and organized garage is less appealing to wasps looking for nesting sites. Regularly sweep and clean your garage to remove potential nesting materials. Organize items on shelves or in sealed containers, and avoid leaving clutter or debris that could attract wasps.
Step 8: Maintain Your Yard and Landscaping
Keeping your yard well-maintained can also help deter wasps from your garage:
- Trim bushes and trees, particularly those close to your garage, to remove potential nesting sites.
- Keep your lawn mowed and free of debris.
- Remove any fallen fruit from trees or bushes, as wasps are attracted to the sweet scent.
Step 9: Regularly Monitor for Wasp Activity
Stay vigilant and regularly inspect your garage and the surrounding area for signs of wasp activity. Address any issues promptly to prevent wasps from becoming established in your garage.
Step 10: Consult with a Pest Control Professional
If you continue to experience issues with wasps in your garage despite taking preventative measures, consult with a pest control professional. They can assess your situation, identify any underlying issues, and recommend appropriate solutions to keep wasps out of your garage.
Step 11: Consider Planting Wasp-Repelling Plants
Some plants are known to repel wasps due to their strong scents. Plant these near your garage to create a natural barrier against wasps:
- Mint
- Lemongrass
- Marigolds
- Wormwood
- Eucalyptus
- Basil
These plants not only deter wasps but also add aesthetic value to your garden.
Step 12: Educate Family Members About Wasps
Inform your family members about the potential dangers of wasps and the importance of preventing wasp infestations in your garage. Teach them how to recognize signs of wasp activity and how to respond safely if they encounter a wasp nest.
Step 13: Practice Safe Wasp Removal Techniques
If you decide to remove a small wasp nest on your own, follow these safety tips:
- Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, gloves, and goggles, to minimize the risk of stings.
- Use a wasp spray or insecticide specifically designed for wasps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.
- Conduct the removal during cooler temperatures, such as early morning or late evening when wasps are less active.
- Approach the nest slowly and calmly to avoid agitating the wasps.
- Have an escape route planned in case the wasps become aggressive.
Step 14: Encourage Natural Wasp Predators
Some animals and insects prey on wasps and can help control their population around your garage. Encourage natural predators by creating a welcoming habitat:
- Install birdhouses or bat houses to attract birds and bats that feed on wasps.
- Create a small pond or water feature to attract frogs and toads.
- Provide shelter for beneficial insects like dragonflies and praying mantises, which also prey on wasps.
By creating an environment that encourages natural predators, you can maintain a healthy ecosystem that helps control the wasp population.
By following these steps, you can effectively keep wasps out of your garage and minimize the risk of wasp infestations. Regular maintenance, proper storage practices, and the use of deterrents can help ensure a safe and wasp-free environment in your garage.
How Much Does Wasp Removal Cost?
The cost of wasp removal depends on the severity of the problem. If you have a small number of wasps, you may be able to remove them yourself. However, if you have many wasps, you may need to hire an exterminator. The cost of hiring an exterminator can vary depending on the size of your garage and the number of wasps. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 for wasp removal.
Tips and Warnings on How to Keep Wasps Out of Garage
Tips:
- Be sure to keep your garage door closed as much as possible.
- If you have any cracks or gaps in your garage, seal them up as wasps can enter through these openings.
- Store food in airtight containers and keep it out of reach of wasps.
- Keep trash cans sealed tight and empty them regularly.
- Keep wasp nests away from your garage if possible.
Warnings:
- Do not attempt to remove a wasp nest on your own, as this can be extremely dangerous.
- If you see a wasp inside your garage, do not panic and try to avoid it if possible.
- If you are stung by a wasp, seek medical attention immediately.
- Always use caution when dealing with wasps, as they can be aggressive and dangerous.
- Do not use insecticides inside your garage as this can be dangerous to you and your family.
Conclusion
It is clear that wasps can be a nuisance, but there are ways to keep them out of your garage. By following the tips in this article on how to keep wasps out of garage, you can make your garage less appealing to wasps and deter them from nesting there. If you have any questions or need more help, please get in touch with us. We would be happy to assist you further.
