How do I get rid of slugs crawling into the cracks between the bricks in my fireplace?

A:

This question is a first for me!

Slugs are attracted to moisture and are moving from the yard, where there are food sources, to the crawlspace, where there is moisture, and then back out for more food. Except they aren't taking the same path back out and end up in your home instead.

Here are some steps to take:

  • Have your crawlspace and outdoor spigots checked for leaks or moisture issues.
  • Make sure there aren't old boards or construction materials down there. Slugs love to lay eggs under things.
  • Remove any plants and mulch that are up against the foundation. This will break up the "path" that is leading to the crawlspace and limit food sources. Even leaving a one-inch gap will help.
  • As best you can, seal the gaps that slugs can get through. This includes door sweeps and around windows. This can be tough with crawl space vents because you also want to ventilate the crawlspace to reduce moisture, so do what you can.
  • If you can identify a main spot where they are entering your crawlspace then do some trapping there. Here is info on managing slugs in the garden and another type of trap.
  • I'm not sure how hot those fireplace bricks get, but you could remove the trim and apply caulking to physically block the slugs. Then reattach the trim. That wouldn't get rid of the slug problem in the crawlspace but at least they wouldn't be sliming around your home.

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