If you are considering trying to handle a pest problem yourself, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind as you determine your plan of action.
Do try and determine the source of the problem or infestation.
All of your efforts to get rid of pests will fall short if you fail to fix the problem that allowed the pest to enter your home in the first place. There are a few key factors that may be attracting and allowing pests in your home.
Shrubbery, firewood, and other items up against your house
If you have items that are close to or touching your house those could be the source of your problem. Shrubbery that touches the house can hold in moisture and create an environment that attracts bugs. Cut back any shrubbery that is touching the house to insure that is not the source of the problems.
Wood and other items stored against the house can attract pests as well. Firewood stored against the house can attract carpenter ants that can transfer from the wood into your home. Remove any items that are against your house to a different storage location to keep from housing pests that can easily transfer into your home.
Improper soil levels against the house
When the soil level against the house is too high, it can lead to pest problems. An overabundance of soil against your house can hold in moisture and become a home to all sorts of bugs and pests. In addition, the moisture can cause decay on your home-especially if you have siding. The wrong soil levels can also lead to flooding and water damage on the inside of your home. This is an issue that needs to be addressed whether or not it is the source of your pest problem.
Gaps around windows, doors, and crawl spaces
Check all the seals around your house for gaps that may allow pests to get in. Windows and doors are a good first place to start. You should also check around your foundation, in the crawl space, and attic for any possible breeches. A little caulk may be all you need to seal up the breech and prevent another pest infestation.
Don’t take on more than you can handle.
There are some pest problems that require more than a once over with an insecticide you bought at the hardware store. Some pests can do major damage to your home if they are not dealt with properly. In these situations, it is easy to get overwhelmed with the steps required or simply miss an important step in the process. Sometimes the best way to handle a pest control problem is to call a professional. There are a few situations in which you should always seek the help of a pest control professional.
Termites
If you suspect termites, your best option is to call in professional help. Termites can cause major structural damage to your home. A professional will recognize the signs of termite damage and will have the knowledge to treat the infestation efficiently and properly.
Serious infestation
A serious infestation may require treatment with a higher potency insecticide that is not typically available at the local hardware store. In addition, it could end up requiring more than one treatment to completely eradicate the problem from the home. An experienced pest control company will have access to the products, tools, and knowledge necessary to handle even the most difficult pest control problems.
