The historic homes of McKinney speak to Texas charm and architectural beauty, but also carry within them a persistent nuisance that many homeowners endure. The perfect entry points and habitats for common pests are these aging properties, which often feature early construction methods and living materials. Due to structural gaps, wood in an advanced state of degradation, and older building practices, a historic homeowner often spends more time and money battling infestations than someone in a newer property.
The city has more than 200 structures on the National Register of Historic Places, according to the McKinney Heritage Commission, which highlights some of these beautiful homes that are in need of specialized pest management.
If there is odd behavior happening in and around your property, speaking to romneypestcontrol.com, who know how to treat older homes, such as villas or character homes, will help prevent severe damage in the future.
Why Older Homes Are Pest Magnets
1. Original Construction Methods Leave Gaps
Early homes constructed in McKinney were built using methods with different concerns than keeping pests out, as we do today. Natural gaps in wood framing and spaces created by foundation work are also convenient entryways for pests that are still in use today.
2. Aging Materials Break Down Over Time
Wood siding ages, mortar breaks down, and these materials crack and crumble, forming highways for insects and rodents. And as foundations age and naturally settle, they create more gaps than were present when the house was brand new, providing multiple entry points for pests into wall voids and attics.
The Climate Connection: McKinney’s Weather Worsens Pest Activity
The warm, humid subtropical climate in McKinney makes it a year-round breeding ground for pests. Insects and rodents seek cool spots indoors during summer temperatures that consistently reach the mid-90s, and mild winters ensure that numerous pests do not truly hibernate. With an annual rainfall of about 40 inches from October through early April, the miraculous clouds that keep the city green are seldom missed.
Moisture permeates older homes through failing weatherproofing, which can breed termites, carpenter ants, and roaches. Historic homes are particularly vulnerable during the transition periods of spring and fall, when peak activity seasons coincide with pests actively seeking shelter and food.
Subtle Signs Your Historic Home Has a Pest Problem
- Unexplained sounds in walls or ceilings – Scratching, scurrying, or rustling sounds, particularly at night, indicate that rodents are active within the wall voids or attic spaces of the home
- Small piles of sawdust or wood shavings – These are often found near baseboards, window frames, or wood beams, suggesting that carpenter ants or termites are currently infesting musical instrument wood.
- Musty odors in specific rooms – Consistently odd smells, especially in basements or crawl spaces, mean that pest droppings or nesting materials have built up
- Visible damage to wood trim or flooring – Small holes, hollow-sounding wood, or blistering on the surface indicate pests may be hiding underneath.
Protecting McKinney’s Heritage With Professional Help
The new structure must retain its historic character while providing the necessary modern protection. They know the struggle because they have experience with McKinney’s older properties throughout the historic downtown and neighboring areas, and they work with Romney Pest Control.
They target how pests are getting into vintage construction without damaging the character features that make these homes unique. They employ treatment methods that safeguard both the structure and its historical character, which is crucial when considering buildings that have stood for generations.
The National Pest Management Association reports that termites cause more than $5 billion in property damage nationwide each year, which is why years of service, along with what has already been damaged, should be inspected professionally. Routine assessments ensure early detection of problems before a small pest problem turns into a significant renovation project.