Got Pests? The Ultimate Guide to Home Pest Remediation

Beyond being annoying and embarrassing, certain indoor pests can be harmful in home environments and cause irritation and illness among residents. Cockroaches, rodents, fleas, silverfish, bedbugs and mites are the most common culprits, but these invaders can vary depending on demographics and the time of year. Some pests are more challenging to eradicate while others succumb rather quickly to conventional and/or organic pesticide methods. However, here's what homeowners should ponder when considering the do's and don'ts of home pest remediation.

Conventional Pesticide Treatment for Eradicating Pests From the Home

Pest control experts typically come to the home, access the situation and then formulate a plan with homeowners for eradication. This is the time where owners need to discuss with professional exterminators their preference concerning methods: traditional and/or integrated pest management (IPM). As their name implies, the primary goal of traditional exterminators is to kill insects, and they typically do it with toxic pesticides that negatively affect human health.

These professionals will typically put your home on a seasonal inspection and treatment schedule, whether signs of pest still occur or not. More reputable extermination companies will be willing to do inspections and set traps that let them know when treatments are needed to accommodate homeowners looking for IPM options.

This is why eco-conscious individuals will want to find a pro that is willing to minimize toxic treatments from the get-go. Inquire whether they are willing to use less toxic products or minimize the areas of impact by treating the most compromised ares such as cracks and crevices. Baits, pastes, granules, sprays and gels are typically effective for such treatments, whether you live in Homer or elsewhere.

Natural Pest Control Alternatives

Those looking to take a less toxic approach to pest remediation may be seeking more natural options, commonly known as Integrated Pest Management. Instead of simply blasting away pests with toxic poisons, the IPM approach utilizes multiple to strategies to keep pests at bay with minimal toxic interventions. An on-site inspection is essential to determine the degree of the pest issue in addition to deciding the best method for eradication.

If chemical use is a priority, inquire with service providers about their willingness and ability to utilize the least harmful products possible. This can be especially important with households that have pregnant women, young children, seniors, or those with breathing problems within the home. There are a number of natural solutions to eradicate household pest problems, such as blends of essential oils, borax, ammonia, diatomaceous earth, spicy sprays and so on that are proven to be effective for many invaders. However, these are best discussed with the professionals familiar with the region the home is within and the unique handling requirements of such techniques.

The Danger of Unremediated Pest Infestations

The most obvious reason most people seek a pest control solution is that insects and other pests are that they are, quite simply, gross. However, there are other issues to consider too. There are certain dangers involved with unremediated pest problems. A few of these include:

• Asthma and Respiratory Problems - Pest droppings, carcasses, and other leavings are a common allergic trigger which can lead to serious problems for those with respiratory distress and asthma.
• Food Contamination - Insects are attracted to an easy food source. When pest problems are left unchecked, food can become contaminated and inedible.
• Disease - Insects carry disease. Eliminating the pests protects humans from these illnesses.
• Damage to Property - While damage from termites may be the most commonly known, there are many pests that can wreak havoc on a home and its contents. Resolving a pest problem quickly is the best way to assure a home remains in good condition.

The reality is these are just a few of the dangers insects bring—achieving swift and thorough pest remediation is key to protect a home and its inhabitants.

Why Call A Professional Exterminator?

Even the most modern and innovative ‘green' pesticide methods have potential health risks. The key to safety for a household is having an expert on the job, but only one you can trust to fulfill the household's needs. Don't take risks with pest or health, but seek out experienced guidance, especially for serious infestations or those that cause structural damage or compromise a household's safety.