Pest Control Tips

Pests are a sore sight in your home. A guest that finds cockroaches under your kitchen sink may not be very comfortable eating food in your home. The primary objective of any pest control measure is to eliminate pests living in your home and prevent similar pests from infesting the property. Below is an extract with some pest control measures you can use to get rid of common house pests. 

Termites

A termite mud tube along your exterior wall could seem harmless. However, a termite infestation could cause untold damage to your property. The pests consume the interior of wooden poles and trusses, thus making them weak. Over time, these fixtures could give in, thus compromising the structural integrity of the property. Below are a few ways to curb termite infestation in your home: 

• Install termite barriers when building the foundation of your home. It will prevent termites from accessing the house.
• Damaging termite mud tubes will expose the termites to the sun's heat. Ultimately, they get dehydrated and die.
• Remove dry vegetation around your home and along your foundation. It harbours termites and enables their population to grow.
• Consider professional termite treatment. The pest inspector will use a chemical barrier to protect the property from pest infestation. 

Cockroaches

A cockroach infestation in your home could expose your family to allergies. Besides, the cockroaches could contaminate your food, causing illnesses such as Staphylococcus and diarrhoea. The easiest way to prevent cockroaches is by ensuring a clean kitchen. Wash dishes after every meal, clean your home regularly and keep the rubbish bin far from your house. However, if you have an existing cockroach infestation, you could consider DIY hacks such as cleaning surfaces with hot water and vinegar or hot water, lemon and baking soda. These solutions will kill cockroaches and prevent subsequent infestations. Alternatively, you could use boric acid and sugar to poison the pests. You will also find a wide range of pesticides used to kill cockroaches. However, conduct due diligence to ensure these chemicals do not have any substances that could cause allergies or make kids sick. 

Spiders

People with arachnophobia (the fear of spiders) are likely to panic at the sight of a spider. However, most spider species are non-poisonous to humans. Therefore, there is no need to get anxious if you see spiders in your home. The easiest way to get rid of spiders is by damaging their web and keeping the area clean. Besides, seal crevices that let spiders into your home. Peppermint oil and insecticides will also help you kill spiders in your home. 

As a rule of thumb, you should seek a pest inspector's advice if you have a rampant pest infestation in your home. The inspector will develop suitable control measures to make your home habitable and pest-free.