Ants, termites, fleas, bed bugs – these critters can wreak havoc on your home and cause extensive damage, leading to costly repairs.
Termites alone cause 5$ billion in damage a year across the US. So you could say that pest control and homeownership go hand in hand.
But dealing with pests doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Once you know about the methods available, you can find the right services to prevent problems before they get out of hand.
Keep reading to discover what types of pest control methods are out there.
Types of Pest Control
Pest control is as old as civilization, and many tactics have come about since ancient Egypt. Standard methods include chemical, biological, electronic, and physical.
So whether you’re seeking to keep things natural or are ready to use every tool in your shed. There are exterminator services out there to suit your needs.
Let’s dive into the four main categories.
Chemical
The use of chemical agents can be an inexpensive and effective means of pest control. The three chemical methods include organic, inorganic, and synthetic.
Organic methods use botanical or fermented products; oils like rosemary, jojoba, tea tree, and citronella. Inorganic agents, like diatomaceous earth, also have natural origins but don’t contain carbon.
Synthetic treatments are better known as pesticides. Chemical treatments like space fumigation work well for severe infestations.
There are risks associated with pesticides, so exercise caution when using them. These products can be harmful to the environment, humans, and other living creatures.
This option may not be the best pest control option for your home if you have pets or small children.
Biological
Biological control is a natural method. It uses living organisms to manage and eliminate pests. This method is chemical-free and can also be beneficial for the environment.
Biological control employs the use of insects, parasites, and plant pathogens. These pathogens can include bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Predators can also be biological control agents. For example, introducing ferrets, dogs, cats, or snakes can eliminate small rodents.
If not careful, this method may affect the biodiversity of untargeted populations.
Electronic
Electronic pest control relies on two technologies: electromagnetic and ultrasonic.
Electromagnetic devices work to adversely affect the nervous system while ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency radio waves. Both can successfully drive pests away.
You can use electronic devices for rodents, cockroaches, mosquitoes, flies, and more.
This method of pest control is less common and sought to avoid using chemical agents. However, there are fewer regulations on electronic pest control devices. So these may work best when combined with other methods.
Your local pest control agency can help you explore which combination of methods is right for you.
Physical
Also called “Mechanical,” this method involves using physical means to remove, kill, or create barriers to deter pests.
Physical pest control can be as simple as keeping the windows closed, using a fly swatter, or hand-picking bugs off a plant. Barrier methods include electric wires for large rodents and nets for protecting crops.
Mechanical trapping methods can include glue boards, snap traps, and live traps. These can be simple, inexpensive, and effective.
Use Pest Control Services Today
Now you know the different types of pest control out there and the advantages and drawbacks that come with them.
Don’t fall victim to these pesky bugs, be a smart homeowner. Reach out to your local exterminator to get started on maintaining the health of your home.
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