Few people welcome the sight of pests in their homes. For example, spiders assist in keeping away flies and mosquitos, but many don’t enjoy a large, eight-legged arachnoid skittering across the floor. However, it is the pests that often go undetected that could be causing the most havoc. If you notice signs of unwanted guests, it is wise to contact a pest control company like Saela to make a thorough inspection. The experts can eliminate an infestation and help you maintain a pest-free household. Check out our list of the pests that could be destroying your home.
Honey Bees
Bee numbers are in remarkable decline due to climate change, disease, pollutants, and habitat loss. Although bees play an integral role in pollinating crops, we don’t want them infesting our homes. Unfortunately, bees are known to enter small holes in siding or roofs where they can proceed to build massive hives. If you have an infestation of honeybees, call a professional beekeeper who can safely offer relocation.
Cockroaches
Finding a cockroach in your home is distressing. Even more disturbing is how fast they can breed and how challenging and time-consuming they can be to eradicate. Cockroaches can destroy fabric, furniture, wallpaper, and cabinetry in your home. Cockroach control is of utmost importance in your house due to the significant impact these pests can have on your home. Not only are cockroaches unsightly and unwelcome guests, but they also pose serious health risks. They can contaminate food, surfaces, and the air with bacteria, allergens, and even pathogens, which can lead to illnesses and allergies.
Termites
Most people have heard how destructive termites can be, but few know the signs to look out for or what they even look like. Check for fine, sawdust-like piles around walls and close to wooden beams or siding. Termites look nearly translucent or are off-white in color. They cluster together, so if you see one, there are likely plenty more in hiding. Unfortunately, termites tend to eat wood from the inside before working their way out, so it is often too late by the time that you witness the damage.
Powderpost Beetles
Powderpost beetles are a telltale sign that the wood in your home was not properly treated. Although termites get the bulk of poor press for their wood-devouring damage, powderpost beetles give them a run for their money.
Mice
If you don’t have a cat, then chances are greater that you will have to contend with a mouse problem at some point. Mice breed at a staggering rate, and can fit through holes smaller than their circumference. We recommend using steel wool to block up access points and putting out humane mouse traps. However, if the problem persists, then call an exterminator before significant damage is done to your home.
Bed bugs
Waking up to itching and red welts on your skin is not pleasant, but the embarrassment and financial ramifications of a bed bug infestation can be much worse. Bed bugs are such a problem that many charities refuse to accept used mattresses, couches, or other soft furnishings.
Did you know that dogs can detect bed bugs? If you are worried your home may have bed bugs or plan to buy a new home, we would highly recommend hiring a professional inspector. Once the bed bugs have been found, it’s time to contact a professional for removal. If you’re concerned about the implications of chemical treatment, maybe because you have pets or young kids, consider
bed bug heat treatment instead. It’s a safer alternative, and usually more effective, as well.
Squirrels
Did you have any idea that squirrels cause massive havoc with the American power grid? They might look cuter than other pests, but squirrels are deceptive critters. If they find their way into your attic or walls, then they can chew insulation, wiring, and air ducts. Squirrels are challenging to catch, so ideally, block up the access points once you know they are out foraging.
Before you reach for poison or toxic chemicals, we recommend searching for non-toxic methods of detecting and eradicating pests in your home. However, if you are ever in doubt about a pest infestation, call a professional before potentially expensive damage is done to your home.
