Home Pest Control Means Preventing and Eradicating Minor and Major Infestations
Homeownership comes with a lot of responsibilities. You must upkeep the wiring, plumbing and other costly maintenance. You also must be diligent in keeping the home free of pests. Pests, no matter what type, are a nightmare for homeowners once they get inside the house. They may lead to a plethora of damage inside and outside the home. How much damage?
- They can damage electrical wiring and electronics.
- They can chew holes into clothing, blankets, walls, carpets, furniture, etc.
- They can damage the wood, causing it to become brittle and break.
- They can destroy wallpaper, paper and fabrics.
- They can chew through a home’s insulation.
The damage can be so extensive, so homeowners must be alert of any concerning signs!
It’s Not Just The Damage To Your Home But Your Health
It’s also not just about the damage to the homes that is so worrisome. Pests tend to have diseases that can sicken residents. You may have heard of some of these diseases:
- West Nile Virus
- Lyme disease
- Bubonic plague
- Meningitis
- Typhoid fever
These diseases can lead to a host of ailments, ranging from skin rashes to paralysis. This is why you need to be mindful of the potential problems pests can bring. You also need to know what to do to keep them out of your home.
Why Do Pests Enter A Home?
Pests, of all kinds, enter a home for the same reason you have one. They need food, shelter and warmth to survive! The more of these things you offer them, the more of them will “move in.” Therefore, to keep them from making a home out of your home, remember to do the following:
- Clean dishes immediately
- Sweep and mop floors daily
- Clean up the table
- Address leftovers
- Wash surfaces down after prepping and cooking supper
- Take garbage out at the end of the day
- Place garbage can away from your home
Pests have four typical hiding spots – attics, basement, roof and walls. You tend to see evidence of a pest before the pest itself. You must get control over the pests before any more damage is done.
What Is Pest Control?
Pest control is the management and control of any animal kingdom pests that can have a negative impact on humans. It is the method to control and remove pests from within a home. Pest control may mean to deter or kill the pests. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional exterminator.
Pest control may mean a simple change or closing potential entryways within the home.
Keep in mind that it’s better to prevent an infestation than to fight one. If your home is already invaded, getting control over them is imperative!
So, when it comes to controlling or preventing pests, you must be informed. The first thing to know is what pest has invaded. Learn what the pest’s lifestyle is like. Find out where they’re making their home and what their food sources are.
From there, you can develop strategies that rid your home of them. This will be time-consuming but think of the alternative if you don’t take time learning. All the information you can get will help you to eradicate them.
What Are Some Popular Methods To Control Pests?
Chemical Pesticides
Most people tend to resort to chemicals to rid their homes of pests. Pesticides can be purchased in aerosol, solid or liquid form, usually focused on certain pest types. However, they are not safe to occupants, users and pets, whether ingested orally, respiratory or dermally. Chemical pesticides can cause a host of health problems, including death.
Natural or Non-Potent Options
Homeowners with children or pets may opt for natural pest control methods. Non-potent methods usually involve baits or traps. Another method is a biodegradable poison poured into baits to kill pests. You can also use floating row covers, insecticidal soap, oil sprays and parasitic nematodes. Some companies opt to use kid and pet safe chemicals. You can read more about this pest control method. Hartz Pest Control in Houston uses kid and pet safe pest control methods, read more.
Biological Control
This is the introduction of the pests’ enemies that will hinder them from proliferating. This method is considered the safest for the family, pets and plants. Success is dependent on the knowledge you learn about the pests in the home. It’s also reliant on them being appropriately applied.
No matter what pest control method used, apply measures in and around your home. Focus on the outside keeps the pests from getting inside. If you use DIY methods, be sure to get products that aim for outside protection. This will likely increase the cost you pay. However, it’s necessary to prevent a future infestation. Be sure the product can withstand weather like rain, wind and snow.
