What pest control method involves sealing cracks, crevices, and small openings in buildings?

The method of pest control that involves sealing cracks, crevices, and small openings in buildings is known as exclusion. This technique aims to prevent pests from entering a structure in the first place, thus reducing the likelihood of infestations. By sealing potential entry points, such as gaps around windows and doors, holes in walls, and openings around plumbing, exclusion helps maintain a pest-free environment.

Exclusion is a proactive approach to pest management. It not only addresses existing issues but also helps prevent future problems by creating barriers that pests cannot easily cross. This method is particularly effective for small pests like insects and rodents that can squeeze through tiny openings.

Understanding this method is crucial in pest control practices, as it emphasizes the importance of building maintenance and vigilance to eliminate conditions that may allow pests to thrive. While monitoring, trapping, and application are also vital components of pest management, they focus on dealing with existing pest issues rather than preventing their entry into structures.