No homeowner wants pests in their home, but somehow, they seem to make it inside, no matter how hard you try to keep them out. When cockroaches, rodents, or termites invade your living space, what was once a peaceful sanctuary turns into something else.
The worst part is that they can multiply quickly when not treated and removed from your living spaces as soon as possible. Pests also have the potential to destroy property and spread diseases.
While DIY pest control methods may offer temporary relief, professional exterminators use proven techniques to eliminate them for good. In most cases, the pest control method applied will depend on the type of pests in your home.
This blog explores the five most common pests and how top exterminators handle them effectively.
1. Ants
As far as common household pests go, ants are probably at the top of the list. You'll often find them invading your kitchen or pantry for food. Most ant species are harmless; however, some have painful bites and can also cause structural damage to your home.
Ant infestations often begin with just a few scouts searching for food. When they locate a steady source, they deposit pheromone trails to draw the rest of the colony in.
The best way to deal with an ant infestation is to enlist top-rated pest control services. They often begin with first identifying the type of ant invading your home.
This is crucial as different ants respond to different treatments. Then, they'll find and eliminate nests with specially targeted bait that workers take back to feed their respective colonies. The approach ensures you kill all of them, not just those you see.
Professional pest control services will also suggest sealing off easy access points (like cracks in windows or doors), storing foods in air-tight containers, and cleaning up crumbs regularly to prevent new infestations.
2. Termites
Termites are known for their destructive tendencies, often digging out holes in walls, floors, and foundations in secret. Signs of their infestations are difficult to point out. However, if you notice mud tubes along walls or discarded wings near doors or windows, you might be having a termite problem.
These signs may not paint a clear picture of the extent of termite infestation, which is why it’s advisable to have a professional termite inspection once a year.
Top exterminators have tools like infrared cameras and moisture meters that can uncover the presence of termites hiding inside walls. When they confirm an infestation, they use different kinds of treatment plans, including:
- Liquid termiticides applied under and around the foundation or beneath concrete slabs.
- Baiting systems.
- Fumigation if the infestation gets out of hand.
They also offer preventive treatments, such as soil-applied liquid termiticides or barrier protection methods, that prevent termites from ever reaching your home's structure.
3. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are among the most common pest you’ll find at home, often hiding in kitchen cabinets and other dirty compartments. They survive in warm and humid climates if food and water are easily accessible. Being nocturnal insects, they remain hidden in cracks, crevices, and kitchen areas.
Not only are roaches unsightly, but they are also a known health hazard—debris from dead roaches, body parts, or droppings can trigger allergies or asthma. Besides, their shed skin and saliva can contaminate food and surfaces in your home.
The best exterminators address the source of cockroach infestation, by dealing with the problem at its root cause. They conduct targeted inspections to find where these pests hide and how they get inside.
Some of the common techniques they use to rid your property of both adult cockroaches and their hidden eggs include:
- Insect growth regulators to eliminate adult insects and prevent the eggs from maturing.
- Residual insecticides if you need immediate results.
Professional pest control services also emphasize sealing entry points and making sanitation improvements. Implementing these tips can considerably decrease the chances of experiencing another cockroach infestation.
4. Rodents
Rodents such as mice and rats are a nuisance and can be harmful. Sometimes, mice and rodents chew on electrical wire insulation, which can increase the risk of fire in your home. Mice, rats and squirrels can also gnaw on pipes, water lines or plumbing fixtures, causing water damage to your home.
A rodent infestation in your home manifests through droppings, scratching noises in the walls, and nests made of shredded material. They often breed quickly, so even a small infestation can quickly become a big issue.
The best exterminators use an integrated pest management (IPM) process to control rodent infestations. They inspect your home for all potential entry points and seal them so no new rodents can enter. Then, they place traps and bait stations in high-activity areas.
Some professionals may implement advanced monitoring systems to track rodent movements and apply targeted treatments. They also educate homeowners on how to store food, dispose of waste, and perform necessary house maintenance to help keep rodents from coming back.
5. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are stubborn pests and can be extremely difficult to control and treat. They are easily transported into your home on luggage, used furniture, or clothing. These small reddish-brown insects seek out human blood, primarily at night. Their bites cause itchy red welts that can cause a loss of sleep.
While bedbugs don't transmit disease, their presence can cause considerable emotional distress. They're so good at hiding in mattresses, furniture, and wall cracks that it's nearly impossible to rid your home of them without professional help.
Expert exterminators often utilize advanced heat treatments to completely remove bed bugs at any stage of life. Heat treatment is particularly highly effective. It kills adult bugs and eggs without any chemicals. They also provide homeowners with guidelines on how they can self-inspect furniture, clothing, or travel bags before bringing them inside to avoid re-infestation.
Final Thoughts
Good pest control and management is about knowing what pests you are against and what risks they pose. The more you know, the easier it will be for you to make informed decisions about safeguarding your home from pests.
Whether you're dealing with cockroaches, rodents, bed bugs, ants, or termites, top exterminators have the expertise and tools to handle them. They eliminate infestations and prevent future outbreaks by advising you on the right steps to protect your home and family.
