While tackling DIY projects can be fun and rewarding, one job is best left to experts: pest control. When rats, ants, spiders, bed bugs, termites and silverfish decide to camp in your home or commercial space, they can contaminate your food, destroy your lawn and even cause structural damage to your property.
DIY pest control may initially seem like a great way to save costs and address unwanted critters in your home. However, the lack of proper tools, training, and knowledge can lead to greater costs and health risks in the long run. In this blog, we explore the risks and pitfalls associated with DIY pest control.
Incorrect Product Use
If you’re facing your first pest infestation, you might find yourself overwhelmed with the number of pest control products in the market, each promising to deliver the best results. Without specialized expertise and training, selecting which product fits your needs can be challenging.
Using the wrong product can have far-reaching consequences. Health hazards could put you and your family and pets at risk. Moreover, incorrect application of certain pesticides, such as caustic sprays, can adversely affect wallpaper, paint and other surface materials in your home or commercial property.
If the chosen product fails to tackle the pest problem, you’ll likely return to the store for a better solution. This repetitive cycle is not only frustrating but also costly and time-consuming. Seeking help from professionals can make things easier. They’ll know which products to use on which pests, sparing you the hassle of trial and error.
Failure To Treat the Root Problem
DIY pest control methods usually focus on visible signs of a problem but neglect underlying causes like entry points, nesting sites or conditions that attract pests.
Without specialized equipment or prior experience, it’s easy to overlook infestations hiding in your walls, attic or beneath your property. This oversight may cause pests to return or the issue to persist, leading to ongoing health risks and potential property damage.
Pest control specialists provide a comprehensive diagnosis of the pest issue, prioritizing identifying and treating the root cause. They address the current infestation and employ preventive measures to deter future problems.
Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals
Pesticides can help in managing a severe pest or weed issue. It’s helpful to remember that certain chemicals can be potentially toxic to other organisms, including humans and animals. Pesticides can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation or skin contact. As such, they need to be used and disposed of safely.
Below are common types of pesticides:
Insecticides
Insecticides are chemicals designed to kill disease vectors like ticks and mosquitoes and household pests like termites, ants and cockroaches.
Rodenticides
These chemical agents are formulated to eliminate rodent populations, encompassing various species like rats, mice, chipmunks, squirrels, beavers, porcupines and woodchucks.
Fumigants
Fumigation is a pest control technique in which gas is released into the air or injected into the soil to eradicate many pests and avoid future infestations. Before fumigation, the area to be treated must be prepared and sealed to prevent the gas from escaping.
Pest control specialists choose the appropriate fumigant based on the type of pests, the location of the infestation and environmental conditions.
Repellants
Repellants create a barrier that deters pests from settling, nesting, or causing damage to certain surfaces and locations.
Fungicides
Fungicides kill or impede the growth of fungi and their spores. They’re applied on plants or other surfaces to combat mold and mildew.
Disinfectants
Also referred to as antimicrobials, disinfectants are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They encompass many products, including bleach, household cleaners and swimming pool chemicals. They prevent the proliferation of harmful microorganisms and help maintain sanitary environments.
Herbicides
Weeds are fast-growing and competitive. They can considerably impact your lawn’s health and appearance when left untreated. Herbicides are strategically applied to target and remove weeds, allowing desired vegetation to thrive without competition.
Effects of Pesticide Exposure
The effects of pesticide exposure can be grouped into three categories:
Allergic Effects
Some individuals are more sensitive to chemical irritants than others, leading to severe reactions like asthma and irritation of the skin, eyes and nose.
Acute Effects
Acute symptoms appear immediately or within 24 hours from exposure. They frequently include nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. Rashes and blisters may also occur.
In many cases, pesticide poisoning symptoms resemble a cold or flu. If you suspect pesticide poisoning, seek medical attention right away.
Chronic Effects
Chronic effects refer to health problems that endure over long periods and may not manifest until several years later. They encompass a wide range of health issues, such as cancer and tumors, congenital disabilities, reproductive problems and damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs and other organs.
When using pesticides, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid direct contact and reduce exposure.
Considering the potential health risks linked to pesticide use, it’s best to rely on professionals for pest control. They have the expertise and equipment necessary to handle these products safely.
Environmental Risks
When attempting outdoor DIY pest control, consider its broader environmental impact. DIY methods may harm not only pests but also birds, non-target plants and beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Improper or excessive pesticide use may contaminate soil, potentially affecting plant health and the native environment. Moreover, pesticides that reach nearby water sources can threaten aquatic life and your local water supply.
In addition, inappropriate treatments may harm your lawn’s overall health and appearance. This can manifest as wilting, discoloration or even death of non-target grass and plants. Addressing the damage through lawn restoration, reseeding and replanting can only incur additional expenses.
Maintain a Safe, Clean and Pest-Free Environment
When maintaining a pest-free environment, relying on professionals offers peace of mind and long-term solutions. At Pest Control Unlimited, we offer commercial and residential treatments that help you ensure a safe, hygienic and comfortable space.
We provide two options: one-time visits and a Quarterly Program tailored to your needs and property conditions. The Quarterly Program includes visits at different times of the year to tackle common pests during those seasons. Additionally, our experienced technicians take proactive measures, such as sealing entry points, to minimize future infestations.
Whether you’re dealing with a rodent, bed bug or mosquito issue, we’re just a call away. Our services cover various areas in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. Contact us now for tried-and-tested pest control treatments.
