An infestation of pests like rodents, roaches, or termites can be a homeowner or renter’s worst nightmare. To some, it may feel like they’ll never get their house back even after an exterminator or rodent control service has been through. However, rest assured — if you hire professional services, you have a better chance of fully getting rid of your pests than if you try and search for pest control solutions yourself. There are certain things you can do to take control in your home and apartment and reduce your chances of getting an infestation in the first place as well. And, of course, having a set plan of action to follow if you should have an infestation can reduce stress during the whole process. You deserve to have peace of mind in your home and these steps can give you back the control you’re looking for.
Pest Types and Factoids
Mice
Mice can be very prevalent — and numerous. In just one year, a female mouse may have five to 10 litters with about five or six babies per litter. A national study showed that over 80% of U.S. homes have mouse allergens and can host and spread multiple diseases, parasites, and bacteria quickly. Furthermore, mice are pretty adaptable, which can often make them resistant to treatments and traps.
Termites
Termites can prove to be harmful to your entire home, especially the foundation, which makes them especially dangerous. The queen of some termite species can lay as many as 40,000 eggs daily and around 15% of all new homes already have serious structural defects or damage, including termite damage. We spend over $2 billion every year in the United States combating termite and their effects on our homes. Indeed, 20% of homeowners who took a survey said that termites were their top pest concern.
Cockroaches
To some, cockroaches can be among the most loathsome of pests. American roaches tend to be more active when the temperature is over 70 degrees, but under the right conditions, they can adapt to survive lower temperatures. They are shy and will scuttle away, but they can spread over 30 types of bacteria, six types of parasitic worms, and seven other types of human pathogens.
How Can I Keep These Pests From Invading?
In terms of mice and roaches, keeping food sources away from rodents is a great method of rodent control, as that can contribute in attracting them to the home. Figuring out and sealing up as many entry points as possible in your home is important — use aluminum foil, as mice don’t like chewing through it. Cardboard will not work, as mice frequently chew through that and use it as part of their nests. Roaches are probably coming into your home to find food, water, and a safe environment, so eliminating at least some of those will keep them from sticking around too long.
A dry home or apartment will help keep termites out, as they seek out damp or moist environments. Minimizing the amount of wood on your property and sealing up cracks routinely can also go a long way.
What Should I Do If I Have an Infestation?
The first thing you should do is to call a rodent control service or a termite or roach exterminator right away. A rodent control service or exterminator is going to be adequately equipped and prepared to fight the infestation effectively and efficiently. Because these creatures tend to breed quickly, you don’t want to give them more time to multiply.
After the rodent control service or exterminator have done their jobs, you want to start taking the preventive measures listed above. Keep glue traps, repellent, and bait stations out for awhile as well — and if you’ve had problems with termites, make sure that you’re retreating your home as often as the exterminator suggests.
Don’t hesitate to call pest control services if you suspect you have an infestation. Swift action can save you a lot of expense and anxiety later on down the road. Their methods of operation will take care of the problem in no time.
