An insect infestation can be a very stressful situation for homeowners. Insects are unsightly, they spread disease, and in the case of termites, they can compromise the structure’s integrity. Whether they have become an inconvenience or an intolerable nuisance, you need to consider insect control at home.
Using our wide network of pest control specialists, we will help match you with a reputable company that meets your needs. So, stop sharing your home with creepy crawlers and eliminate them once and for all.
How Insect Control Works
Initial consultation. The first step toward a bug-free home is setting up a consultation with a pest control expert. The expert will come to your home during the consultation to determine which insect species is causing you issues. This is important because each species requires a different treatment method to ensure they are fully eliminated.
Infestation assessment. Once the expert determines the insect species, they will assess your home to identify the problem areas. Insects commonly build nests behind walls, under floorboards, and in basements. Locating the nests is vital, as these are the areas where the insects spawn. Eliminating the eggs and spawning grounds helps ensure that the insects do not return.
Choosing a treatment. After the consultation, the expert will explain the treatment process in detail. Certain species can be eliminated using FDA-approved, biodegradable pesticides, while other insects require different means of treatment. You can rest assured that insects will no longer be a nuisance in your home.
Types of Nuisance Insects
There are several types of insect species known for causing infestation issues. Here are the most common and problematic:
- Ants
- Bedbugs
- Cockroaches
- Mosquitoes
- Termites
- Spiders
- Ticks
- Wasps & Hornets
How are Insects Getting into My Home?
Insects can enter the home through almost any tiny crack or crevice imaginable. They typically do so to find food sources, build nests, and escape predators. Once inside, their numbers can grow exponentially if left unchecked.
Without preventative measures, it’s nearly impossible to stop insects from getting into your home. However, to reduce the chances of pests coming in, it is best to seal all noticeable cracks and gaps. Also, be sure to keep foliage, such as sticks, branches, and woodpiles, away from the house’s exterior.
Insect Control Methods
There are two primary types of insect control methods used to eliminate unwanted pests.
- Biological insect control. This involves using non-invasive insect and plant species to fight off the pests infesting your home. For instance, minuscule pirate bugs and beetles effectively control aphids and mites. Certain plant species can help to ward off ants and other small insects. Biological methods are a popular alternative to spraying chemical pesticides.
- Chemical insect control. The foremost method of insect control and elimination is through chemicals. And while the term “chemicals” brings to mind the unhealthy and unsafe pesticides that were once acceptable, this is no longer the case. Today, most pesticides are FDA-approved and biodegradable. They are safe to use in residential dwellings and schools, and hospitals.
Preparing Your Home for Insect Treatment
The most important step in preparing your home for insect treatment is decluttering. A clean, clutter-free interior and exterior will help ensure that no area goes unchecked. Additionally, cover any open food containers and store them accordingly. It’s also wise to stow away children’s toys and other related items, so they don’t get contaminated.
The technician may request that you clean under any appliances where bugs could be hidden. Scrubbing and mopping hardwood floors is also recommended, as insects can lay eggs under the wood. If there are specific areas where you’ve noticed insects, eggs, or exoskeletons, be sure to inform the exterminator before treatment.
When is it Safe to Return home?
In most cases, homeowners can return immediately after completing treatment. If the pesticide is slow to dry, you may have to wait 2 – 4 hours before returning. To ensure safety, always abide by the recommendations stated on the product label. Furthermore, the pest control technician may have additional instructions to be followed.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The amount of time it takes to eliminate the pests is dependent on the insect species and the severity of the infestation. Typically, homeowners will begin to notice a difference within a couple of days of treatment. You may even see an increase in insect activity immediately after the initial visit. But do not fret! This means that the pesticide is working, and the insects are fleeing and dying.
If you continue to notice the insects after a couple of weeks, a second application may be necessary. Some insects, such as bedbugs, are more difficult to eliminate than other nuisance species. If the bedbug infestation is serious, the home may require heat treatment. This process can take several days, but it’s extremely effective.
Preventative Insect Control
Developing a preventative maintenance plan is necessary for insect control in the home. If there is no preventative plan, the insects will eventually return. Generally, maintenance applications are faster and cheaper than the initial visit. Be sure to ask the pest control technician about the varying types of preventative maintenance.
Do-It-Yourself Methods
There are countless insect sprays and devices on the market. However, the vast majority of these DIY treatments perform poorly. Their subpar performance is that they don’t get to the root of the bug problem. Instead, they offer only a temporary and often potentially hazardous solution to insect infestations.
An Insect Free Home
There is no denying that insect infestations pose a serious problem for homeowners. Insects spread disease, invade food sources, and they’re just plain creepy. If bugs are beginning to overrun your home, then it’s time to contact a professional exterminator. They will be able to implement a treatment plan that will keep your home insect-free for years to come.
