DIY House Sealing for Stinkbugs

Stick the end of a screwdriver into the opening beneath your door and the floor. If it fits easily, so will a stink bug. These nasty little pests arrived in the United States in the mid 1990s, according to entomologists with Penn State University. Stink bugs love warmth and tend to congregate in the sun. In September and October they begin the hunt for a warm place to spend the winter. That place, unfortunately, is indoors. Although sealing your house against the pest is something most homeowners can accomplish, it takes time. If you miss one crack or other opening, the stink bugs will be spending winter indoors with you.

Things You'll Need

• Caulk
• Aluminum screening or mesh
• Weather-stripping
• Spray foam

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Use caulk to seal openings around light fixtures, baseboards and fans. Stink bugs congregate in attics and basements and gain access to the home’s interior through cracks.

   • 2

     Seal holes around pipes coming into the house, such as those under the kitchen and bathroom sinks. Use foam spray for large openings.

   • 3

     Apply aluminum screening or mesh over larger holes in the home, such as chimneys and vents. Use the finest mesh you can find.

   • 4

     Apply weather stripping around doors and windows. Remove and replace worn window stripping.

   • 5

     Check the attic for holes. If you see daylight coming from somewhere, use spray foam or caulk to seal the opening.