At times, homeowners look for ways to save money on projects. There are some projects that you can handle on your own, such as painting cabinets. However, there are some tasks, such as electrical and plumbing, that are better left to the professionals. This logic also applies to pest control. In some cases, you can handle it yourself. In others, you need to consult someone who knows about pest behavior and treatment. Read below to see when you should ask for help.
Knowledge
While DIY methods come with instructions on their labels, they do not come with the knowledge that a trained pest professional possesses. These technicians spend their days identifying pests and know how best to eliminate them. For example, many DIY bed bug methods exist on the marketplace. However, a trained pest professional knows that bed bug treatment is not always “one size fits all”. By consulting a pest professional, you can save yourself time and frustration.
Expense
While DIY pest control may seem like a cheaper option up front, the reality is that it may cost you more money than hiring a professional in the long run. Professional pest technicians know how to treat specific pests and what methods work, and will make the right treatment choices from the beginning. If you choose the DIY route, you may go through several rounds of trial and error before you begin to make a dent in your infestation.
Risk
Handling chemicals always comes with a risk. While most readily available DIY pest treatments have been approved for home use, you should always use caution when handling chemicals you aren’t familiar with. These chemicals could potentially cause harm to humans, pets or plants in the area. By hiring a pest professional, you can eliminate some of these potential risks. The technician will evaluate your surroundings and needs, such as pets, and help you select the chemicals (as well as non-chemical treatments) that best suit your household.
Effectiveness
For very small infestations, DIY methods can be effective if used correctly. However, for stinging insects, termites, bed bugs or large and recurring infestations, it is best to call a professional. Here’s why:
- Stinging insects can pose serious health risks. In fact, they send half a million people to the emergency room every year.
- Termites are especially destructive pests that cause more than $5 billion in property damage every year. Pest professionals are trained to understand the unique biology and behaviors of termites. They can perform routine inspections to spot early signs of a problem, and if necessary, have the tools and know-how to effectively treat an infestation.
- Bed bugs are certainly not a pest that should be handled on your own. For one, they are notoriously elusive, often hiding out in hard to detect places like behind electrical switches and under wallpaper. A trained pest professional will know where bed bugs are likely to hide in your home and can develop a treatment plan to target the pests while ensuring the safety of your family and pets.
- Recurring pest infestations are a sign that your home is just too enticing for pests, and could be a sign that you are missing something that a trained professional would look for, such as a small entry point or drip under the bathroom sink.
Convenience
DIY pest control methods seem easy because you can do them at a time that works for you. Many people believe that hiring a professional pest control company will be inconvenient to their lifestyle. However, a reputable company will work with you to make sure that they come at a time that works for you.
Ready to call a professional? Our trained pest technicians are ready for you. Simply contact us and tell us about your problem, and we’ll be in touch shortly.
