Pest control services work to manage and eliminate household pests. Hiring professionals can help tackle infestations and prevent future problems. This guide covers what you need to know about pest control services.
Inspecting the Property
The first step any reputable pest control company will take is thoroughly inspecting your home. The technician will check for signs of infestations, identify problem areas, and figure out how pests might be entering.
Some key areas they’ll inspect include:
- Cracks and crevices – Small gaps around windows, doors, pipes, etc. where pests can enter
- Clutter – Messy areas that provide hiding spots
- Moisture issues – Leaks, high humidity that attract pests
- Food sources – Pet food, crumbs, dirty dishes, etc. that provide pest “meals”
The inspector will also note environmental factors that could be contributing to problems, like overgrown landscaping providing breeding grounds.
Identifying the Pest(s)
An experienced pest control technician can identify what type of pest is causing issues based on the evidence, signs of infestation, and your reports. Common household pests include:
- Cockroaches – Droppings, egg cases, foul odor
- Ants – Tiny black specks, trails along walls
- Rodents – Droppings, gnaw marks, noises
- Termites – Swarms, hollowed wood
- Bed bugs – Red bites, blood spots on sheets
Correct identification ensures the right pest control methods are used. The inspector may set out glue boards, traps, or do targeted spraying to confirm the specific pest.
Recommending a Treatment Plan
After thoroughly investigating, the pest control technician will recommend a tailored treatment plan. This may involve:
- Insecticide spraying – Targeted spraying of baseboards, cracks, attics, etc.
- Rodent baiting – Strategic bait trap placement
- Fumigation – Tenting and gassing the structure for severe infestations
- Heat treatments – Heating up the home to lethal temperatures
- Sealing entry points – Caulking cracks, installing door sweeps, etc.
- Improving sanitation – Recommending decluttering and better food storage
Reputable companies avoid broad chemical spraying if possible and focus on precision treatments. They’ll use the least toxic methods that solve the specific issue.
Scheduling Follow-Up Services
Pest control takes time. A single treatment often won’t completely solve the problem. The technician will schedule follow-up visits about every 2-4 weeks to check progress and re-apply treatments as needed.
For ongoing prevention, they may recommend:
- Quarterly/bi-annual spray treatments
- Annual inspections
- Monthly bait checks/refills
Staying on top of pest control ensures you catch any new infestations before they get out of hand. Think of the service as maintenance for a pest-free home.
When to Call the Pros
In summary, it’s smart to contact professional pest control services if you see any signs of an infestation. DIY treatments often just scatter the pests, making problems worse. The pros have the expertise and chemical arsenal to fully eliminate pests. They’ll inspect, identify issues, recommend a treatment plan, and provide ongoing management. With their help, you can keep unwanted critters out of your home for good.
What does a pest control do?
Pest control professionals inspect properties, identify infestations, and implement treatment plans to eliminate pests like insects, rodents, and wildlife. Their services help manage and prevent pest problems.
How do pest control companies get rid of pests?
They use a combination of methods like targeted insecticide spraying, trapping, sealing entry points, removing food sources, and improving sanitation to safely eliminate pests.
What is an exterminator?
An exterminator is another term for a pest control technician who specializes in getting rid of pest infestations.
How can I become a pest control professional?
You can get trained through on-the-job experience, apprenticeship programs, or certification courses to gain the knowledge and skills needed for pest control work.
What is integrated pest management?
It’s an approach to pest control that uses a variety of methods together to prevent, monitor, and control pests with minimal hazard or risk.
What are the signs of a pest problem?
Signs include seeing pests, droppings, damage to home structures, strange odors, and bites or stings on skin.
Are pest control products safe for humans and pets?
When applied correctly by certified technicians, today’s pest control products are generally safe, but it’s still important to follow all label precautions.
Do pest control workers need to be licensed?
In most states, pest control workers must hold licenses demonstrating knowledge about pesticides and proper application techniques.
What are some common pests that pest control companies deal with?
Common pests include cockroaches, ants, termites, rodents, bed bugs, stinging insects, spiders, and wildlife like raccoons.
How often should I get pest control treatment?
Treatment frequency depends on the pest and infestation level. Consult with a pro to determine the right schedule for your situation.
