One fly buzzing at the window, a trail of ants along the skirting board, or a moth fluttering out of a cupboard — it often starts small. But once insects find an easy way in, they’ll keep coming back (and some can multiply fast).
The good news is you don’t need to wait for an infestation to take action. Most household insects enter through predictable places — tiny cracks, poorly sealed gaps, vents, and air bricks — and once you block those access points, you remove the problem at the source.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to insect proof your home step-by-step: where insects get in, the most common entry routes in UK properties, and the simple DIY proofing measures you can use to keep flies, ants, moths, spiders and more out for good.
Why insect proofing is important
Insects are experts at exploiting even the smallest gaps. Unlike rodents, many insects can enter through cracks as small as 1–2mm, making homes that appear sealed still vulnerable.
- Prevent infestations before they start
- Reduce reliance on sprays and chemical treatments
- Improve hygiene and comfort indoors
- Protect food cupboards, soft furnishings and stored goods
Taking a preventative approach is often more effective and longer-lasting than dealing with insects once they are already inside.
How do insects get into homes?
Most insects enter buildings through structural gaps rather than open doors or windows. Common entry routes include:
- Air bricks and wall vents
- Cracks in brickwork or render
- Gaps around doors and window frames
- Openings around pipes, cables and drains
- Gaps under skirting boards or floorboards
Because these entry points are often hidden or overlooked, insects can gain access unnoticed.
What about insects living inside walls?
Many household insect problems start inside wall cavities rather than in open living areas. Ants, wasps and beetles can enter through small external gaps and establish themselves inside walls, insulation or voids before becoming visible indoors.
This is why insects may appear around kitchen units, plug sockets or skirting boards, even when windows and doors are kept closed.
Insect proofing helps prevent this by blocking access points such as air bricks, vents, cracks in brickwork and gaps around pipes. By stopping insects from entering wall cavities in the first place, you reduce the risk of hidden nests developing behind walls.
If insects are already established inside a wall, you may need to combine proofing with appropriate treatment to fully resolve the issue.
Common insects that enter UK homes
Insect proofing is effective against many common household pests, including:
- Ants – entering through cracks in walls and foundations and nesting inside wall cavities
- Flies – using air bricks, vents and poorly sealed windows
- Moths – accessing lofts, cupboards and ventilation points
- Wasps – entering through vents and wall cavities while searching for nesting sites
- Spiders – crawling through small gaps and crevices
- Cockroaches – accessing buildings through gaps around pipes, drains and service entry points
- Beetles and silverfish – entering through damp or dark areas
Stopping access at entry points is one of the most reliable ways to control all of these pests.
Key areas of the building to focus on for insect proofing
1. Air bricks and vents
Air bricks are essential for ventilation but are also a major entry point for insects. Fitting fine mesh vent covers allows airflow while preventing insects from getting inside.
2. Cracks, gaps and crevices
Small cracks in walls, around window frames or along skirting boards are ideal entry routes. Using sealants or gap fillers blocks these access points and stops insects crawling indoors.
3. Pipes and cables
Where pipes or cables enter the property, gaps are often left unsealed. These openings should be filled or covered to prevent insects travelling along service routes.
4. Doors and windows
Even small gaps around doors and windows can allow insects inside. Making sure frames are properly sealed and gaps are filled helps reduce access.
What products are used for insect proofing?
Effective insect proofing relies on physical barriers, not chemicals. Common products include:
- Fine insect mesh for vents and air bricks
- Sealants and fillers for cracks and gaps
- Mesh barriers for larger openings
- Proofing materials designed for long-term durability
These products work continuously once installed and don’t rely on reapplication like sprays.
Can you insect proof your home yourself?
Yes. Most insect proofing measures are simple DIY tasks that require minimal tools and experience. Identifying entry points and sealing them properly can make a significant difference in a short amount of time.
For best results:
- Inspect the exterior of your home carefully
- Seal gaps thoroughly rather than partially
- Focus on prevention rather than reacting to infestations
When should you insect proof your home?
Insect proofing can be done at any time of year, but it’s especially effective:
- In spring, before insects become active
- In summer, to reduce flies and flying insects
- Any time, after noticing recurring insect activity indoors
The earlier gaps are sealed, the easier it is to prevent problems later.
Final thoughts
Insect proofing is one of the most effective ways to protect your home from unwanted pests. By blocking entry points and creating physical barriers, you can significantly reduce insect activity and enjoy a cleaner, more comfortable living space.
Taking action early saves time, money, and stress — and helps keep your home pest-free all year round.
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our insect control products are effective, fast & easy-to-use. You may also find our expert guide useful if you want to learn more about getting rid of flies from your home or workplace.
