As summer winds down in Texas, you might notice an uptick in uninvited guests, specifically stink bugs and flies, making their way into your home. This seasonal spike is more than just a nuisance. These pests are preparing for the cooler months by seeking warm, sheltered places to overwinter, often inside your home.

Don’t wait for pests to settle in. Schedule preventive pest control services today or call us at (972) 945-9226. Your window to block fall invaders is closing fast!

What Makes September a Hotspot for Overwintering Pests?

While many associate pest problems with the height of summer, the transition into fall is actually one of the most critical times of year. Stink bugs and certain fly species, like cluster flies, become particularly active in September as they begin searching for entry points into homes and buildings.

These pests don't just appear out of nowhere. They are driven by natural instincts to survive the winter. As temperatures cool, their search intensifies, and homes in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston offer ideal shelter with warmth, humidity, and access to food.

Why You’re Seeing More of Them Right Now

You may be seeing more flies buzzing around windows or stink bugs clinging to sunny sides of your home. These behaviors are warning signs that overwintering activity has started. Key factors contributing to their September surge include:

Warm daytime temperatures and cool nights, which trigger migration indoors
Increased moisture levels, which attract pests seeking a humid environment
Availability of entry points, such as cracks, gaps, and poorly sealed windows

Recognizing this uptick early allows you to take proactive measures before these pests gain a foothold indoors.

Common Entry Points Stink Bugs and Flies Use

Both flies and stink bugs are opportunistic when it comes to finding a way inside. Understanding their preferred access points can help you shore up your defenses. Watch for these trouble areas around your home:

Cracks in siding or foundation
Gaps around windows and door frames
Torn or loose window screens
Vents and attic access points
Unsealed utility openings (plumbing, wiring, AC lines)

Once they get inside, they often head for attics, wall voids, and other undisturbed areas—making them difficult to remove without professional help.

How to Stop Fall Pests From Sneaking In

If you want to avoid dealing with an infestation in October or November, September is the time to act. Taking preventive steps now is far more effective than trying to remove pests after they’ve settled in. Here are smart, homeowner-friendly steps you can take:

Seal cracks and crevices. Use weather-resistant caulk to seal exterior gaps around doors, windows, and siding.
Replace damaged window screens. Ensure all vents, chimneys, and windows are covered with tight-fitting screens free of holes.
Install door sweeps and weather stripping. Add or replace seals under exterior doors to eliminate gaps.
Clear yard debris and trim vegetation. Overgrown plants and debris can serve as pest harborage near your home’s perimeter.
Schedule a professional inspection. A licensed technician can pinpoint vulnerabilities and apply targeted treatments to keep pests out. Proactive stink bug control and fly control solutions can go a long way.

These actions, especially when combined, create a multi-layered barrier that prevents stink bugs and flies from getting a foothold before winter.

Why DIY Isn’t Always Enough

While sealing and cleaning are important, they may not address hidden nests or entry points that aren’t immediately obvious. Overwintering pests are persistent, and a few getting through can quickly lead to a larger problem as they reproduce or become active indoors during warm winter days.

Professional pest control providers like All-Safe Pest & Termite use targeted treatments around key areas of your home’s exterior to discourage entry. These treatments are safe for families and pets and are especially effective when applied before pests fully settle in.

The Best Time to Act Is Now

By late fall, many overwintering insects will already be nestled inside walls, attics, or crawlspaces, making them much harder to eliminate. That’s why September is your best opportunity to prevent a frustrating infestation later.

Don’t let stink bugs and flies claim your home this fall. The team at All-Safe Pest & Termite is here to help you take control before the weather changes. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston, offering solutions designed to protect your home and family.