Fix & Seal: Practical Building Repairs

In Structural Integrated Pest Management (SPM), many infestations signal construction, operation, maintenance, or sanitation deficiencies—not a lack of pesticide. Targeted fix/seal work closes access, removes harborages, and supports long-term results.

Why “Fix It” and “Seal It” Are Core SPM Tactics

SPM begins with an inspection and converts findings into practical actions. The chapter highlights that building modification often means fixing, sealing, or replacing relatively minor parts of a structure to resolve and prevent infestations.

  • Reduce entry and concealment points.
  • Improve effectiveness of targeted products (when needed).
  • Address underlying building factors driving pest presence.

These repairs are paired with conducive-condition corrections and perimeter adjustments.

Targeted Repairs That Make a Difference

  • Seal interior and exterior cracks and crevices.
  • Replace broken or rotted components.
  • Install screening and door sweeps.

These actions remove harborage and access that allow pests to develop unnoticed in voids, pipe chases, false ceilings, and other construction features. See Conditions Conducive.

From Inspection Findings to a Repair Plan

During inspection, SPM identifies distribution, density, origins, entry pathways, and critical infestation control points. Mapping these on diagrams/floor plans clarifies where small repairs create the biggest impact. Documentation feeds the written plan. See Mapping & Documentation.

Integrating Fix/Seal with the Rest of SPM

  • Clean/Remove: eliminate debris and attractants that block inspection or reduce treatment effectiveness. (Conducive Conditions)
  • Fix/Seal: apply repairs based on mapped entry/access points and harborages. (This page)
  • Perimeter Adjustments: adjust grade, set back/trim vegetation, and refine mulch practices at the foundation–landscape interface. (Perimeter Modifications)
  • Targeted Pesticides (when needed): never routine calendar applications; choose formulations and methods suited to site sensitivity, surfaces, moisture/grease, and odors. (Pesticide-Use Policy)
  • Customer Coaching: focus on the one or two highest-impact items first; address lesser issues later. (Customer Coaching)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “fix/seal” include in SPM?

Sealing interior/exterior cracks and crevices, replacing broken or rotted components, and installing screening and door sweeps—repairs that remove access and harborage.

Do minor repairs really matter?

Yes. Many SPM repairs are relatively minor yet pivotal for eliminating access and concealment that sustain infestations.

How do you decide which repairs to do first?

Inspection identifies distribution, entry pathways, conducive conditions, and high-risk control points. Mapping and documentation prioritize small repairs with the biggest impact. See Mapping & Documentation.

How does moisture relate to repairs?

Moisture intrusion and retention degrade components and support pests. Repairs that prevent or limit moisture help resolve underlying conditions. See Moisture & Building Performance.

Will you still apply pesticides?

Only when needed, and never on a routine schedule. Any application is targeted and matched to site conditions per our Pesticide-Use Policy.