Do it yourself fix it

Archive for the ‘Pest Control’ Category

Termites are a threat to homeowners. Even well-maintained homes are not spared from termite infestation. Chemical treatments are available, but preventive actions are worth considering. Repairing moisture and ventilation problems helps lessen termite infestation but do not provide control.

Factors in termite control measures

Do it yourself termite control kits, commonly known as termiticides, are readily available in the market for treating termites. The first thing to be done for a successful termite control project is to locate and get rid of the egg-laying queen and other reproductive elements. The chemicals in the treatment contain slow-acting poisons that are carried in the food. This is eventually eaten by the workers, and later by the queen and other colony members. For dry wood termite control, there are non-chemical treatments available such as heat, cold, fungal pathogen or microwave treatment.

Essentials for do it yourself termite control

Termite control products such as stomach poisons, growth regulators and quick-kill formulations are readily available in the market. However, proper knowledge is needed to assure safe application. The things to be taken into consideration for a successful do it yourself termite control project are the interior and exterior structural features of the house, the type of termites present and the type of treatment to be applied. It may also help to deal with house problems or conditions that may lead to termite infestation.

Disadvantages of a do it yourself termite control kit

As mentioned earlier, the following factors are to be considered before going into a termite control project. First is the type of materials the houses were constructed with. Second is the type of land soil where the houses were built. Third is the drainage system. All these determine the type of termites present, the magnitude of infestation and the appropriate treatment alternatives. For a homeowner lacking in knowledge and skills, undertaking a do it yourself termite control project can be quite expensive. The environment and health of the whole family is also put at stake if the chemical treatments are not mixed, applied and monitored properly.

After you have decided that a do it yourself pest control project is better than availing of professional help, the first thing you need to do is to “weatherize” your home. Weatherizing your home means identifying the places where household pests, insects and rodents access your home. Usually, these are one-inch gaps such as door and wall bottoms, and the part where roofs overlap. If possible, these entry points should be sealed.

Guidelines for do it yourself pest control

A thorough inspection of your home will help you decide on what pest control project to undertake. Look out for structural damage such as rat holes or decaying wood as well as water damage, which weakens the wood and therefore makes it easier for rodents to enter.

Immediately repair broken windows and screens. Use chimney caps or wire mesh to cover your chimneys, as these are favorite spots of squirrels, raccoons and birds. On the outside, it is recommended that you trim limbs of trees, shrubs or vines that touch any portion of the house.

Tips for do it yourself pest control treatment

* Having sealed off all possible entry points to your home from pests, it is time to get rid of all forms of food that attract these pests. These may be drawer and cabinet liners, paper grocery bags and even wallpaper.

* If you aren’t already doing it, start practicing proper waste disposal. Don’t let any food, trash or decaying wood to remain longer than necessary within the premises of your property.

* Properly maintain areas where food is prepared, stored and served. Keep these areas clean and free from crumbs and grease.

* Regularly clean drains and gutters.

* Don’t stack firewood on the ground.

* Once in a while, rearrange stored items. Keep boxes and plastic bags tightly sealed.

Safety measures on the use of pest control chemicals

To get rid of flying insects, cockroaches and crickets, there are pesticide sprays that are readily available in the market. For rodents, there are also different kinds of poisons. Termite treatments also work well. No matter which product you choose, extreme caution should be undertaken to protect yourself from accidental contact with these products.

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking while you are doing any sort of pest control task. After using pest control products, wash your hands thoroughly to remove even the slightest trace of the pesticide.

With the different treatment options available nowadays, sanitation proves to be the best solution against pests. A clean and uncluttered home makes it easy to spot potential problems. Moreover, you must always be on the lookout for signs of another pest invasion in the future.