Early identification and prevention of pest infestation are crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment. Pest infestation poses a significant threat to health and the environment.
Whether cockroaches are in the kitchen, termites are in the walls, or rodents are in the attic, Brooks Pest Control, a professional pest control service, can detect an infestation and take preventive measures to save time, money, and stress. In severe cases, professional services are essential to ensure the complete eradication of pests and the safety of the homeowners.
Rodents
Rats and mice are common rodents that enter and reside in a house in search of food during winter. They can enter any building from the smallest of cracks and cause extensive damage to property by gnawing on wires, insulation, and wood. Rodents are also carriers of various diseases.
The most common sign of rodents is the presence of small, dark, pellet-shaped droppings near food sources, in cupboards, or along walls. Rodents often leave gnaw marks on baseboards, wires, and food packets. Rodents are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. Therefore, one can hear scratching or scurrying sounds from walls, ceilings, or attics.
Sealing all entry points and smallest openings can easily prevent rodents from entering the building. Sanitation and cleaning of the place are important to avoid rodents being attracted by unattended food. It is also crucial to store food in airtight containers, keep pet food sealed, and regularly clean up crumbs and spills. Garbage should be kept in a sealed dustbin and disposed of regularly.
Termites
Termites are wood-eating insects that can silently chew through wood, flooring, and wallpaper without people noticing them. Termite infestation cannot be easily identified. However, the presence of mud tubes, hollow wood surfaces, frass, and discarded wings are the factors one can identify termite presence. Termites build mud tubes along foundation walls, beams, or crawl spaces to travel between their colonies to the food sources.
Termites often feed on wood, and the significant damage or presence of the hollow surface of timber can indicate termite infestations. Termite droppings, known as frass, resemble sawdust or wood shavings and are frequently seen around the afflicted wood pieces. Discarded wings are another identifying criterion for the presence of termites as they shed their wings after swarming.
Termite prevention focuses on eliminating moisture sources and maintaining proper ventilation. To reduce moisture, homeowners can fix leakages around the house and keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris. Wood structures and furniture should be regularly inspected and coated with termite-resistant varnishes to prevent termite infestation. Also, a dehumidifier can be sprayed in basements or crawl spaces to reduce humidity levels.
Read also: How to Hire Safe Pest Control Companies
Cockroaches
The most resilient insect in a household is a cockroach. They thrive in warm, humid environments, posing serious health risks by spreading bacteria and triggering allergic reactions in humans and pets. The presence of cockroaches in an area can be easily detected by their strong, musty odor, which can indicate a large infestation.
Cockroaches are also nocturnal like rodents; therefore, they can be observed more at night. These insects hide inside cracks or crevices and lay small brownish egg cases. These eggs can be visible while cleaning the house. A cockroach’s droppings resemble black pepper or coffee grounds. They are typically observed in cabinets, drawers, or under appliances.
Cockroaches are attracted to warmth, moisture, and food, so preventing an infestation involves eliminating these attractants. This can be achieved by maintaining proper sanitation. Homeowners should regularly clean their floors, keep the kitchen surface tidy and free from food particles, and dispose of waste.
Food should be stored in an airtight container, and any spills should be immediately addressed. Homeowners can fix cracks, gaps, and any other openings in and around the house. Sealing doors, windows, and utility pipes can be done with insect-resistant caulk or strips.
Professional pest control services can conduct regular inspections to detect and eliminate any infestations early. Depending on the pest and the intensity of the infestation, professional services may use targeted treatments such as baiting, trapping, or chemical applications to assist avoid pest infestations.
