9 Common Pests Homeowners Should Look Out For

Insects are the first things that homeowners think about when it comes to the subject of pests. No one enjoys seeing nasty critters invading their home. However, they can mess with your property and cause illnesses. The first step in pest control is understanding the threat you are up against, and how to eliminate them. Hiring pest removal experts can help you eliminate a variety of pests from your home and protect your property. You can also DIY this task. That said, here are the most common pests to watch for in your home and how to get rid of them.

1. Ants

Several species of ants exist, with the most troublesome ones being capable of infesting where you live. Carpenter ants appear to be the most common reason for phone calls to professionals in the Pacific Northwest. They are a considerable nuisance for property owners and contractors. Aside from this, ants can destroy properties and cause a myriad of other inconveniences. The small creatures are notorious for infesting food storage areas and creating trails in living spaces. They may interrupt outdoor activities in gardens and patios and compromise your property’s structural integrity. Are you grappling with ant infestation in your home? Consider controlling their infestation by practicing good sanitation. Keep food containers tightly sealed, clean food crumbs, and seal cracks and gaps to block the entry points of ants. Professional pest control companies can provide tailored services to remove specific ant species that may threaten your home.

2. Termites

There is no doubt that termites are among the most destructive pests confronting homeowners. These insects may play crucial roles in the ecological cycle of a forest but are dangerous when it comes to your home. Termites consistently rank among the most stubborn household pests, and the species include subterranean, damp wood, and dry-wood termites. The subterranean species are especially popular for building mud and tunnels that allow them to move through the soil and destroy wooden structures. You can find dry-wood termites in structures like wooden furniture, framing, and flooring. Dampwood termites, too, may try feeding on wood with high moisture content. Termites are social insects, so they often live in cooperative groups, sharing their work among specialized members. 

Non-professionals may find it hard to distinguish between termites and ants. This is why many homeowners don’t realize what they are up against until the damage is successful. Common signs you have a termite infestation in your home are small piles of faecal pellets, wings near windows and doors, and hollow wood. Fighting termites requires routine inspections and adopting preventative measures such as good ventilation and reducing moisture. You can book expert termite control services for comprehensive protection and treatment to safeguard your property.

3. Cockroaches

These hardy little pests are never friendly. Cockroaches hunt for water more than food; this is because they can go a whole month without food but just a week without water. However, some species thrive in different environments, including the Arctic and the desert. Cockroaches are one of the most resilient pests homeowners across the world have to deal with. They can infest your property or business and cause substantial health risks by spreading diseases. Therefore, don’t hesitate to take the right steps to eliminate cockroaches to improve your family’s safety.

4. Rodents

Rodents are beneficial mammals, yet they are annoying pests. Many homeowners hate living with these creatures. The Norway rat and house mouse are the most common rodents challenging homeowners. Apart from being a significant nuisance, rodents can transmit diseases, contaminate food, and cause severe structural damage by chewing wires and insulation. In addition, the rapid reproduction rate of these animals also means that a minor infestation may soon grow into a bigger issue. You may want to be vigilant for signs of rodent activities like droppings, gnaw marks, and scampering noises in ceilings.

5. Mosquitoes

Over 150 species of mosquitoes exist. These malaria-causing creatures can bite hard and become a persistent problem when temperature rises in spring and summer. They requently make the headlines because of their nuisance and health risks. Therefore, learning how to get rid of mosquitoes around your home is important. Investing in repellent insecticides and removing standing water can help fight this problem. 

6. Bed bugs

These flat and brown-red oval insects love to hide in the dark. Bed bugs may infest mattress seams, headboards, drawers, carpets, and bedroom furniture. One way to get rid of them is to wash blankets and bed sheets in warm water. It would help if you emptied and cleaned your vacuum bin. Bed bugs may resist several chemicals. Therefore, try to use insecticides specially designed to control them. 

7. Centipedes

Identifying centipedes is quite easy; they are recognizable by their 15 pairs of legs and fangs. Centipedes use their fangs to attack other insects for food. You can find these pests in humid environments such as kitchens and bathrooms. If you see centipedes in your home, chances are other creatures are lurking in the vicinity. Check the humidity level of these areas as soon as possible. Spot treatment may be necessary to eliminate centipedes from cracks, under sinks, and around the windows, so feel free to consider this. 

8. Wasps

Wasps are aggressive and territorial pests that can be scary to have in your home. They typically prefer to nest up under a covered roof or awning, growing their nest size and laying eggs all over the place. Wasps will do anything to protect their nests from danger – unfortunately, that sometimes includes stinging any person who visits the area. Serious problems are bound to happen if they build their habitat near your home, garage, or patio. Wasp stings can be painful, and some individuals may show allergic reactions in the process.

9. Bees

You may have to deal with expensive problems if a bee colony invades your home and makes it theirs. About 30,000 bees can quickly hijack your home a few days after arrival, producing a sizable hive of wax and honey. Experts can best handle bee removal without necessarily killing the pests with insecticides, so feel free to contact them. 

Scheduling an appointment with pest control companies is highly recommended when you are experiencing trouble with household pests. Professionals who are well versed in their job can treat pest infestation and prevent further damage to your home. However, DIY solutions are also effective, provided you know the right steps to take without compromising your safety.