With so many pest control methods out there, it can be tricky for regular home and business owners to determine the fastest, safest, most effective, and budget-friendly solution.
Of course, the Internet is full of do-it-yourself methods that are cheap and easily administered. However, the chances of these methods negatively affecting the local flora and fauna if not done correctly are very high.
What’s more, while these at-home methods might fight back small instances of bugs and other pesky creatures making themselves at home, when a true pest infestation arises, you’ll need to call in the big guns for more effective treatment solutions unavailable over the counter.
In this post, we’ll take a look at professional pest control, what it entails, and if it’s really worth it in the long run.
Which Pests Can Be Eliminated Using Professional Pest Control Methods?
Unfortunately, many types of pests can find their way into our homes and our nightmares. Homeowners and businesses don’t have the luxury of choosing what kind of creature lurks in the attic, cupboards, beds, or within walls. Still, they must deal with the fallout, damage, and potential for contracting diseases from different types of wildlife and insects.
When you have an infestation, the sooner you address the problem, the better. The reproduction rate of some insects and wildlife is lightning fast. While you’re considering your options, your adversary is likely multiplying before your very eyes.
A licensed exterminator can eliminate the following types of pests:
- Bed bugs
- Mice and rats
- Cockroaches
- Carpenter bees
- Wasps
- Carpenter ants
- Termites
- Centipedes
- Earwigs
- Fleas
- …and more!
Pest Control Treatments Explained
A seasoned exterminator offers several types of pest control treatments depending on which creature has invaded your space and your preferences for the solutions used on your property. For instance, people with pets and children may be concerned about chemical treatments and opt for organic pest control solutions that are more environmentally friendly and maintain a safe space for kids and pets to re-enter after the treatments have been applied.
Organic Pest Control
Organic pest control is a safe, cost-effective method of removing and preventing pests from taking up residence on your property. Non-chemical agents attract and destroy specific types of insects and rodents.
These organic compounds are biodegradable and gentle to the environment around us. They’re also becoming increasingly popular as households and commercial organizations seek greener, healthier choices.
Chemical Pest Control
As licensed pest control experts with significant safety training, your exterminator is certified to use chemical pest control methods unavailable to the average person.
For environmental and safety reasons, only licensed professionals have been approved to apply these chemicals, and they must do so following strict precautions.
Your pest control technician will consult with you to determine your comfort level and suggest the best methods to remedy the problem immediately.
Sometimes, your technician may advise you to leave your home temporarily while they apply chemical pest control treatments. They’ll always advise you in advance about how long this will take, when it is safe to return, and what to expect when you arrive home.
Bait and Trap Pest Control
Highly effective for removing rodents and some types of insects, bait and trap pest control works by luring pests in with a delicious treat they just can’t resist.
Once inside the bait station, the pests are trapped. From there, a technician can regularly monitor the situation, replace the baits as needed, and remove any dead pests.
When to Call in an Exterminator
Have you noticed critters in your home? Perhaps you’re hearing a rustling in your walls or have found traces of insect or animal droppings.
If you’ve noticed any of the following, calling an exterminator is the right choice:
- Signs of animal or insect droppings
- Contaminated food
- Signs of nesting
- Different smells
- Sounds coming from the flooring, ceilings, and walls
- Damaged property
- Animal or insect tracks
Maybe your pest situation is still relatively small, or perhaps the problem has gotten out of hand faster than you anticipated. Whatever the case, it’s never a bad idea to call an exterminator for a consultation whenever you need expert advice on what to do next.
Typically, initial consultations are risk-free and will give you the opportunity to have all your questions answered.
How Long Does It Take for Pest Control to Work?
Depending on the type of pest control treatments you select and what kind of critter you’re combating, it can take up to three days to see a noticeable decrease in pest activities. For some creatures like ants, only 48 hours is needed for treatments to take effect.
Your pest control provider can tell you precisely how long each treatment should take, specific to the size of the infestation, the space in question, and the treatment choice you’ve made.
How Much Does Pest Control Cost?
Pest control costs can vary greatly depending on the provider you choose and the type of pest infestation you have on your hands.
Typically, pest control companies consider the following when putting together an estimate on your behalf:
- The type of creature that is causing the problem
- The size of the space to be treated
- The number of treatments required to remove the pests
- Safety measures that must be taken
- Inspection and warranty considerations
Be sure to ask your exterminator about warranties and what type of guarantees they offer in advance. It always pays to know your options if you find yourself dealing with a reinfestation down the road.
Pest Prevention Is Always the Best Method of Pest Control
It’s worth saying more than once. Pest prevention is the absolute best method of pest control.
But what exactly does pest prevention include?
- Removing water sources
- Removing access to food
- Removing sheltering and nesting options
- Removing entry points for pests
Did you know that storing food away from walls and at least six inches off the floor is recommended to keep pests from being able to sink their teeth into your larder?
Your pest control technician is trained to spot potential energy sources and shelter that allows pests to proliferate. Removing these will leave pests with no viable options, so they’re much more likely to move on rather than settle in your home or place of work.
Upon inspection, a technician will also identify entry and exit points that should be sealed to prevent future pests from finding a way inside.
The Bottom Line: A Visit from an Exterminator Is Worth the Peace of Mind
If you’re dealing with a severe pest infestation or would like to take measures to ensure you’ll never have to, a visit from an exterminator is always worthwhile.
These trained professionals perform comprehensive inspections and provide a full diagnostic report, complete with several organic and chemical treatment options and a list of ways to fortify your property to prevent future infestations. Not only that, but pest control experts are discreet and can solve your problems fast.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with a local pest control professional. The peace of mind you seek is guaranteed when you partner with an established exterminator company.
Did these tips help you formulate a plan to take action against pests who’ve set their sights on your home or commercial property? Let us know how you deal with pests by dropping a few lines in the comments!