How Winter Weather Impacts Pests in Hampton Roads
When winter settles in across Hampton Roads, many homeowners assume pest problems go on pause. After all, cold weather should send bugs packing… right?
Not exactly.
Virginia’s winters don’t just slow pests down—they push them indoors. And with our mix of chilly nights, mild daytime temps, and the occasional cold snap, winter can actually be one of the busiest seasons for pest activity inside homes.
At Getem Services, we’ve been protecting homes across Hampton Roads and the Tidewater region for more than 100 years, and one thing hasn’t changed: when temperatures drop, pests look for warmth, shelter, and food—and your home checks all the boxes.
Let’s break down how winter weather affects pests in our area and which ones homeowners are most likely to encounter.
What This Blog Covers
- How Hampton Roads winter weather affects pest behavior
- Which pests remain active during colder months
- Why pests move indoors in Norfolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach
- Common winter pest issues in coastal Virginia homes
- How Getem’s century-long local experience helps prevent infestations
Why Winter Drives Pests Indoors
Hampton Roads winters are rarely consistent. Instead of long, deep freezes, we experience fluctuating temperatures, frequent rain, and persistent humidity, even in winter.
When temperatures drop, pests aren’t trying to escape winter entirely. They’re looking for:
- Stable warmth
- Protection from wind and moisture
- Reliable food and water sources
Homes, crawl spaces, garages, and commercial buildings throughout Hampton Roads provide exactly that.
Common Winter Pests Virginia Homeowners See
Rodents (Mice & Rats)
Rodents are by far the biggest winter pest concern in Virginia.
As outdoor food sources disappear, mice and rats, particularly roof rats, squeeze through gaps as small as a dime to get indoors. Once inside, they:
- Nest in walls, attics, basements, and garages
- Chew wires, insulation, and stored items
- Leave behind droppings and contamination
In many Virginia homes, especially older properties or those with crawl spaces, rodent activity ramps up significantly during winter.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches don’t hibernate, and Virginia’s climate allows them to remain active year-round.
During winter, roaches:
- Move deeper into wall voids and kitchens
- Seek warmth near appliances and plumbing
- Become more noticeable when populations grow indoors
Because they’re excellent at hiding, homeowners often don’t realize roaches are present until winter forces them into more visible areas.
Spiders
Spiders follow their food.
As insects move indoors to escape the cold, spiders follow, setting up shop in:
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Attics and garages
- Corners, ceiling edges, and storage areas
While most house spiders aren’t dangerous, winter web buildup can quickly make homes feel dusty and neglected.
Ants
Certain ant species in Virginia remain active indoors during winter, especially when colonies have already established themselves inside walls or under slabs.
Homeowners often notice:
- Ants near sinks or pet bowls
- Activity during warmer winter days
- Recurring issues despite DIY treatments
Why Hampton Roads Homes Are Especially Vulnerable in Winter
Hampton Roads homes face unique challenges due to:
- Fluctuating winter temperatures
- High humidity and frequent rainfall
- Coastal moisture intrusion
- Crawl space and slab construction
- Older homes with aging seals and foundations
Small gaps that seem insignificant during warmer months become major entry points once pests are motivated by cold weather and wet conditions.
The Getem Difference: 100+ Years of Protecting Virginia Homes
Since 1922, Getem Services has helped homeowners and businesses throughout Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and the greater Hampton Roads area stay protected through every season.
Our in-depth understanding of local weather patterns, coastal construction styles, and seasonal pest behavior enables us to prevent infestations before they become established. We don’t rely on one-size-fits-all treatments; instead, we focus on prevention, exclusion, and solutions tailored specifically to Hampton Roads properties.
Winter pest control isn’t about reacting. It’s about preventing problems before they start and ensuring a pest-free spring.
Winter Pest Prevention Tips for Hampton Roads Homeowners
To reduce winter pest activity:
- Seal cracks, gaps, and utility entry points
- Store food in airtight containers
- Reduce moisture in basements and crawl spaces
- Keep clutter away from walls and storage areas
- Schedule a professional inspection before problems escalate
Don’t Let Winter Pests Settle In
If pests have already found their way inside, winter won’t push them out, but the right home pest control plan will.
Locally owned and family-operated, Getem Services understands how Virginia’s winter weather impacts pests and how to keep them from turning your home into their cold-season refuge.
Additional Services
Get Help Now!
Request Your Free Quote
