Pests and Termites: 6 Techniques to Determine and Control Them

Pests are tiny creatures that most homeowners overlook until they’re causing damage. They cause millions of dollars in damage annually to businesses and homes. Termites are a significant part of the problem. They can cause vital issues with infrastructure. They are challenging to eliminate and can quickly become a problem when they’re not controlled in time.

Here are six techniques you can use to control pests and termites.

1. Have Your Home Inspected Regularly

The first step to pest control is having your home regularly inspected by an industry-certified technician. They will thoroughly inspect your property and take the necessary actions to identify the pests and termites. They will also assess the extent of any damage they’ve caused so you can decide whether or not it needs to be repaired. Building and pest inspections are critical, even if it’s just the outside of your home. A trained eye will be able to spot things that you might miss. Your HVAC system could be a prime spot for pests and termites. Regular preventive maintenance can reduce the chances of that happening.

2. Declutter Your Home

Pests thrive in cluttered areas. They prefer dark, warm areas that have plenty of food sources. Messy areas provide them with all these things. Piles of debris and trash make it much harder for you to detect them. Clear out the clutter and keep things organized. Wipe down baseboards, keep the floors swept, and vacuum regularly. A clean space is much easier to stay pest-free. The aesthetics will also improve, making it a much more pleasant environment for you and your family. Your yard also needs to be kept clean and clutter-free. Maintain your shrubbery, grass, and trees. Keep the yard free of leaves and other debris. You should also get rid of any wood lying around outside your home. It could allow pests to establish themselves inside your home as well. A regular cleaning schedule can help you spot any unwanted guests. Once you’ve spotted them, taking action is much easier before they can do any real damage.

3. Seal Off Entry Points

Use some material that’s durable to shut off access points in your home. Any cracks and crevices between the floor and ceiling, in your walls, behind cabinets, or in other places are ideal. The pests can travel through these holes and get into your home. Use caulk to seal out mice and ants. Keep any doors and windows in the home tightly shut so pests can’t get inside. A pest control technician can provide information on the best products and methods. The exterior of your home also needs to be secured. Pests travel along downspouts, gutters, and other places where they can find cracks. Cover any exposed areas such as vents, utility holes, and chimneys with caulk to prevent them from entering your home. Inspect your roof for any holes or damaged shingles. They can be pest entry points as well.

4. Use Traps

Traps are a helpful alternative to pesticides when you want to control pests on your own. In many cases, they’re as effective as high-priced anti-pest products and more environmentally friendly. For rodents, use traps to catch specific animals, such as mice or squirrels. Bait the traps with high-protein bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit. For insects, it’s essential to use a sticky sheet like cockroach glue traps. These can be effective against fire ants and other insects too. Place the sticky trap in areas where you see signs of pests and termites, like behind appliances, cabinets, or under furniture. Termite colonies can be spotted using bait stations. A wood-based bait will attract the termites to their demise. The colony will feed on the bait and eventually die off.

5. Hire an Industry Professional

It doesn’t make sense for you to spend time and money on products that don’t work or have dangerous side effects. A professional will know exactly what products to use and how to apply them properly. They can also recognize the signs of infestation and take appropriate action as soon as they see them. A licensed pest control technician will come with a comprehensive plan that includes regular visits, preventative maintenance, and the proper tools for the job. When choosing an exterminator, make sure that you ask for references from people who have used them before and see if they offer a warranty on their work. A company that stands behind its work is one that you can trust to take care of the problem.

6. Install a Termite Shield

They’re designed to be installed on your home’s exterior. They come in many shapes and sizes to fit any home. They keep termites from getting inside. The shields are installed around the entire perimeter of your foundation wall. They’re screwed into place and connected with short metal bands. Ensure that there aren’t any spaces where termites could get in between the shields or at their seams. Most problems are preventable with the proper knowledge. Having a pest problem is no fun for anyone. It multiplies the stress levels in your home, wastes your time, and can damage your home’s interior. Regular inspections are the best way to spot potential issues before they become significant problems.

About the author

This article is provided by Jim Pulman who has extensive knowledge and experience in Home Building, Construction, and Design. He writes articles in his free time and partners with content creators to share his expertise with the online community.