Innovative Pest Solutions takes an IPM approach to pest control. This means they treat only when necessary, using a targeted method to keep environmental impact low. Contact Nature Shield Pest Solutions now!
Prevention includes:
- Sanitation practices.
- Removing food sources and shelters.
- Reducing the carrying over of pests from one area to another.
Clutter also provides places for pests to breed and hide, so remove paper or junk mail stacks.
Termites are wood-boring pests that can cause immense damage to homes and structures. Unless properly treated, damage from termites can be costly and may not be covered by homeowner’s insurance policies. Homeowners in Westchester County, NY, should be vigilant about identifying signs of termite infestation and seek professional advice for termite control as soon as possible. Some common signs of termite activity include:
Fumigation is a common method of addressing an active termite infestation, and it is often the only choice when dealing with an underground colony. Fumigation can be effective against both subterranean and drywood termites, though it is less effective at treating existing colonies of the latter.
Chemical barrier treatments are a common and effective way to manage termite infestations. These treatments are primarily composed of liquid termiticides, which are sprayed directly on and into the ground around a structure to create a protective barrier against termites. Liquid termiticides can be applied either during new construction or to existing buildings, and they are generally used in combination with other methods of treatment.
Other types of termite treatments include wood treatments, surface sprays, and injected sprays and foams. Wood treatments involve injecting termiticide directly into infested wood to both kill current termites and prevent future infestations. These treatments can be used on both existing and new construction, and they are especially useful in preconstruction treatments.
Surface sprays and foams are also used as termite control products, although they are more commonly employed in new construction treatments. These treatments are sprayed directly onto infested wood surfaces and can be sprayed or injected into crevices that sprays may not be able to reach.
Regardless of the type of termite treatment chosen, it is important to follow all label directions carefully. This helps minimize health risks for both homeowners and pest control professionals, and it ensures that the product is being used in a manner that will be effective against the type of termite infestation being addressed. Additionally, homeowners can take steps to reduce the likelihood of termite infestation by repairing leaky pipes, removing wood from direct contact with soil, and by reducing moisture levels around their homes.
Bed Bug Control
Bed bug infestations can be a nightmare to deal with. While you may be tempted to just throw everything out, this is expensive and can spread the pests to other homes. Instead, make a plan for treatment. Start by emptying drawers and boxes of clothes and personal items. Double bag these and set them aside until they can be carefully treated, cleaned or inspected.
Also, pay special attention to bedroom accessories and picture frames. Some pest management professionals suggest that these are favorite hiding spots for bed bugs and their eggs. Check the felt backing of these and the cardboard mats that hold pictures and other knick-knacks for signs of bed bugs.
If you do find them, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove the insects and their eggs. You can also use steam to kill the bugs. Steamers can be purchased in most stores that sell household cleaners and appliances.
Nonchemical control methods include encasement of the mattress and box spring (special zippered covers are available). Moat-style traps can also intercept the bugs as they leave their hiding places to bite people. Interceptor traps are designed to be placed under the legs of infested furniture, and they are especially effective when monitored weekly.
Another option is the use of desiccants such as silica dust or diatomaceous earth, which work by drying out the pests. It can take several months for this method to fully work. Avoid using pool or food grade diatomaceous earth, however, as it can irritate your respiratory tract if you breathe in the fine particles. Only use the type of diatomaceous earth registered by EPA as a pesticide.
It is also important to isolate the infested room so that the pests do not get into your clean laundry or other items. Seal cracks and crevices, including those around electrical outlets and pipes. This will help prevent the bugs from moving between rooms and also make it easier to treat them. Finally, keep records through the process to track your progress and make sure that the pests are completely gone.
Rodent Control
Rodents carry diseases and contaminate food. They also gnaw on electrical wires, cause structural damage, and create fire hazards. The droppings, urine, saliva and feces of rodents can make people sick with Salmonella, hantavirus, leptospirosis, rat-bite fever and other serious illnesses.
Rodents are attracted to open containers of pet food and water, unsecured garbage cans, unsecured compost piles and sink drains, as well as cracks in foundation walls, unscreened vents and doors, and holes around pipes, drains, and windows. Rats can also enter a home by climbing up ivy or other vines that hang over a house and are used to climb. They are also attracted to cluttered storage areas, garbage cans, and outdoor firewood stacks.
Traditional traps and poisons can be effective for individual rodents, but they often fail to address the root cause of an infestation and may pose risks to children and pets. Our pest control technicians offer a variety of long-term, preventative strategies that are designed to provide effective, permanent rodent control.
Our pest control technicians can advise you on the benefits and drawbacks of various natural rodent control methods. Generally, these methods require ongoing monitoring to be successful, but they are usually less toxic and safer for your family, your pets and the environment than rodenticides.
A comprehensive rodent control program should include multiple city departments to ensure that all aspects of the problem are addressed. For example, the water/sewer authority may be responsible for inspecting and possibly managing rodents in sewers, the public works department for trash disposal and collection, and the parks and recreation department for landscaping and rodent management at municipal facilities.
Rodent control programs should also be integrated with community health, education, enforcement, abatement and maintenance. This will help ensure that the city’s program is fully funded and sustainable. A well-integrated city-wide strategy for eliminating rodent infestations will result in a significant reduction of the health, economic, and environmental problems associated with this serious nuisance.
General Pest Control
Pests like mice and rats spread diseases, gnaw through wood structures, and leave behind rodent waste. Rodents are also known to chew through electrical wires and cause fire hazards in homes. General pest control services offer a range of treatment options that can prevent rodent infestations and keep them from coming back for good.
A general pest control service will assess your property and identify potential entry points, environmental factors that attract pests, and other vulnerabilities. They’ll then develop a pest control plan to address your specific issues and needs. A good general pest control service will also provide ongoing monitoring and support to ensure that your property remains protected.
Generally, general pest control companies will use non-toxic methods to treat common household pests. However, if an infestation is particularly severe or resistant, they may recommend fumigation. Fumigation involves filling a space with gaseous materials to suffocate and eradicate the pests inside. It’s typically reserved for situations where other methods can’t resolve or reach the pests, and it may be required to treat large areas.
If you notice a lot of holes in your shed, doghouse, or home, it could be an indication of a serious powderpost beetle or other wood-boring insect infestation. These pests can destroy wood trim, kitchen cabinets, and wooden structural beams in your house.
A good general pest control company will be able to identify the type of wood-boring insect you have and create a plan to eliminate it. They may also recommend sealing any exposed wood to prevent future pest problems.
The cockroach population thrives in environments where food, water, and shelter are readily available. To reduce roach numbers, a pest control company can recommend a series of sanitary measures and other cleaning strategies. In addition, they can provide preventative treatments in the fall to stop cockroaches from overwintering indoors. Taking these steps will help to improve your quality of life and preserve your home’s value.
