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On the list of “unpleasant homeownership tasks,” pest control is near the top. From insects to rodents, unwelcome house guests can cause serious trouble. That’s why preventing pests from getting indoors or quickly banishing them once they’ve made their presence known is key. In some cases, DIY pest control is an inexpensive and effective way to reclaim your home. However, there are other instances that call for professional pest control help.
As a good rule of thumb, you should be able to DIY your pest control if you are preventing pests from arriving or dealing with a small number of non-wood boring insects. On the other hand, if the pests carry a significant risk of disease or could cause significant structural damage, it’s best to call in an expert pest control company.
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How Can You DIY Pest Control?
When it comes to DIY pest control, the solution should fit the problem. That means that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach that will be best. Instead, you will need to consider your goals if you are preventing pests or if there are already pests in or around your home.
Evaluate Your Landscaping and Exterior
Rodents, birds, insects and more can all be problematic whether in your home or on your property. If you want to reduce the chances of a pest problem, the first place to start is by assessing your exterior. Pests are often seeking a place to nest and are attracted to moisture. For that reason, it’s best to move any piles of leaves or logs away from the exterior of your home, regularly clean out your gutters and do what you can to stop rainwater from flowing toward your home’s foundation.
If you find pests inside your home, that’s your sign that your exterior isn’t effectively sealed. Check the siding for any holes, the roof for any damage and the window seals for any gaps. Pests can get inside through incredibly small holes. You will want to thoroughly repair any damage or gaps that you find as soon as possible.
Put a Line of Defense Around Your Home
To take your DIY pest control strategy a step further, you can spray the perimeter of your house or yard with a repellant designed to serve as a natural, invisible barrier that pests won’t want to cross. Although this is a service that many pest control companies will offer with guaranteed results, you may find success with a DIY approach by using a natural or chemical-based repellent. Just be sure to read the instructions and warnings—especially if you have kids or pets. Pest control sprays should only be used as directed and while wearing proper protective gear.
Banish Bugs and Other Pests From Within Your Home
It’s safe to say then when you spot one pest in your home, there are others roaming about. Although some are relatively solitary and only nest outdoors (like centipedes), other types of pests can make themselves at home and rapidly multiply. The sooner you can address the problem, the more successful your technique is likely to be.
Depending on the type of pest in your home, there are a number of natural and chemical-based DIY pest control options. These include:
- DIY natural solutions: Using readily available ingredients like vinegar, boric acid or essential oils, you may be able to find a tutorial that will help you attract and then kill certain pests like fruit flies or ants.
- Store-bought natural solutions: There are a number of eco-friendly products on the market that can help kill or repel pests. These are best used in localized areas where you know there is a problem.
- Traps or baits: If you have a rodent problem, traps can be an effective solution. Just be sure to put the traps away from any place where a child or pet may find it. Smaller baits designed to attract and trap insects like ants or roaches are also available.
- Chemical-based pest control: The strongest DIY option is to purchase a chemical-based pest control product, such as an aerosol spray, fogger or gel. These can help control heavy infestations of insects such as ants, roaches, spiders and ticks in small spaces.
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When Should You Call a Pest Control Expert?
The biggest advantage to taking a DIY approach to pest control is that it has the potential to save you money. However, if there is a serious pest problem that isn’t adequately addressed, it can just turn into a larger, more costly headache down the road. That’s why there are some instances when it is best to call a professional from the beginning.
If You Have Signs of Wood-Boring Pests
Wood-boring insects such as termites can cause a significant amount of damage in a short amount of time, which is why it’s best to get an expert’s help. With additional resources, tools and training to help them discover the root of the problem and thoroughly mitigate the pests, you can confidently move on.
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If You’ve Noticed Health Effects
Pests aren’t just unpleasant to see. They can also pose real health risks to the people living in a home. From carrying diseases to exacerbating conditions such as asthma or allergies, the presence of pests can be a real hazard. If you have concerns about potential health risks, it may be best to get the job done right with a professional’s help.
If You Feel Pest Control Is Hazardous to You
Getting up close and personal with pests can be concerning—especially if you don’t have any experience. If you are dealing with an infestation of potentially dangerous pests, such as wasps, a professional will have the right gear to safely complete the job.
By evaluating the problem, you can find the pest control solution that is right for you.
