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Wednesday, May 22, 2013 | 2:08 p.m.

Posted: 9:23 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2011

6 News Consumer Investigation: Preventing Stink Bugs From Invading Your Home

By Robin Taylor

Stink bugs have invaded our homes, and experts say it could get much worse.  That's why 6 News’ Consumer Investigator Robin Taylor talked to one of those experts to find out what can  be done to keep the  bugs  out.

 

Stink bugs over winter live in dark cracks and crevices and then head outdoors in the summer where they damage gardens and ornamental plants.

 

Chad gore, an entomologist with Ehrlich Pest Control, said after that they lay eggs making many more stink bugs. According to gore we could see at least double the population of the stinky bugs this fall. 

 

In September, millions of stink bugs looked for a nice warm place to stay over winter and were drawn to the south and west sides of homes.

 

"The stink bugs will fly to this because they're attracted to the heat of the building, and when they hit the building they start crawling upwards," said gore.

 

When they find a hole, they crawl in getting into your home or attic.

 

"Something like the attic vent, where it just has louvers on it.  That is a great place for stink bugs to get into.  This is clearly an example of how stink bugs could get in because this is not flush against here," said gore.

 

Gore said summer was the time to seal cracks with silicone, and fix doors and windows.  Dryer and furnace vents should also be covered with a screen that won't restrict air flow.

 

"We’ve had a lot of reports of people having trouble with their furnace as a result of stink bugs," said gore.

 

Come fall, you can also treat the exterior of your home with an insecticide which is another barrier to keep the pests from getting in.

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