Having pests in the house can be disheartening and stressful, but you can take control by working with a pest control company. Hiring good pest control can rid your home of pests safely and efficiently.
It’s important to know when you need help from the professionals, especially in the early stages of a pest invasion. Treating the problem before the infestation grows can help you avoid a more significant problem later on. Below are signs that it’s time to find good pest control.
1. You’re Seeing Pest Leavings
Wherever there are pests, there are also pest feces. In fact, you can tell what kind of pests are in your home based on the size and shape of the feces.
Mouse feces are small, symmetrical and shaped like a grain of rice. They’re about a quarter of an inch long, or slightly smaller. You’ll see mouse feces in areas where mice run, which means you may see them under cabinets, near the refrigerator, under the stove, in your garage, along walls and in closets. If you see clusters of mouse feces together in one area, this could mean the nest is nearby.
Rat feces are larger than mouse feces. Unlike mouse feces, they’re not symmetrical or consistent in size and shape. Like mouse feces, they’re dark brown or black. Fresh rat feces can be shiny, while older feces may take on a grayish and dusty appearance. You’ll see these feces grouped in areas where rats run frequently, and in areas around the nest.
Cockroach feces look like flecks of pepper or coffee grounds. These feces are easiest to see when they’re clustered in one spot – usually in an area near the nest. If you can find the area where the cockroach feces are grouped in a clump, you’re almost certain to find the cockroach nest.
2. You’ve Noticed Signs of Pest Damage
Some pests do damage to homes when they move in. Mice and rats, for example, may chew through walls so they can move throughout the house. Mice and rats will also tear apart materials for their nest. Good nesting materials may include plastic bags, packing paper, rags and even clothes.
3. Sightings May Be Time for a Pest Control Company
Of course, one of the clearest signs that your home has been invaded by pests is the appearance of a pest. Where you see the pest and how often you see the pest depends on the severity of your pest problem. Many pests are most active at night and can be seen most often at night. They also run from people when they see them, so you may only catch glimpses.
The more glimpses you’re seeing of mice or bugs, the bigger your problem. For example, if you see one mouse one time, without noticing any other signs of a problem, this could be a passing mouse, not necessarily a sign of an infestation in your house. If you see multiple mice, and have noticed mouse feces in parts of your house, it’s time to get help from a pest professional.
4. Hearing Noises
Some pests make noises, some don’t. Rodents and small mammals like raccoons can make noises in the walls and in the ceiling. You’ll hear these noises most often at night when the animals are active.
You may also hear noises in your own room, especially when it’s dark. Chewing noises and other sounds are indications that there’s something in the room with you. Rodents have long front teeth that they must use regularly, so they may be chewing on food, your wall, or anything hard they find.
5. You’ve Had Past Pest Control Problems
If you’ve had pest problems in the past, then it’s important to keep up with your pest control regimen, even if you’re not seeing mice or insects in your home now. Keeping up with pest control services can prevent a problem from recurring, and may prevent future problems as well.
When the pest control professional comes to your home, show them the parts of your house where you’ve noticed sounds, seen feces, or have sighted any pests.
What To Look for in a Pest Control Company
When you’re hiring a pest control company, it’s important to know what to consider before deciding which is best for you.
- Availability and frequency of treatment. How often will your pest control company come to your home, and are they available for re-treatments? Find out if you’ll be charged for re-treatments.
- Safety of treatments. Some pest control companies use pesticides that are toxic for the earth and for people. It’s important to hire a company that uses safe pesticides that won’t harm you, your landscaping or your family.
- Expertise. How many years has the company been in business? Consider their years in business and level of expertise when choosing a company. You may also consider checking references to find out how the company treats their customers.
Contact EcoTek Pest Control Company in Spokane
Are you noticing signs that you need a pest control service? Contact EcoTek pest control company in Spokane for help with your pest problems. EcoTek pest control serves homeowners in Spokane and the surrounding area.
