Signs You Might Have A Pest Problem And What You Can Do About It
Knowing that you have some cute, fuzzy friends nesting in your kitchen, or some less cute termites running around your loft, can make you feel a little uncomfortable and concerned. Sure, it makes sense that these critters need to find a home to stay warm in and collect food, but part of the problem is that, not only do they make a complete mess (that can be toxic), but they can also chew wires can cause dangerous problems, such as fire hazards.
Because of this, it is always worth keeping your eyes peeled to make sure you can get on top of any pest issues before they cause a serious issue. This piece is going to take a look at what signs you might notice if you have a pest problem, and how you can deal with it.
Read on to find out more.
What Is A Pest Infestation?
When wanting to be able to spot a pest infestation, it is important to know exactly what you are looking for. Pest infestations are essentially where pests move into your home and create a problem. Specific areas can be more of an attractive breeding ground for pests, such as where people store or prepare food.
One or two little visitors will usually not call much of a problem. However, if you find they start nesting, breeding, and settling in, then this can cause a significant health risk to you and anyone else living in your home. Therefore, they need to be taken care of as soon as possible.
You Notice Droppings Around The Home
Droppings are a tell-tale sign that you might have some unwelcome guests in your home. So, if you spot some poop patches, especially in a basement or a loft where there is not as much human traffic, it could signify that you have some regular visitors that might need to be moved somewhere else.
Certain pests can be easier to identify than others, such as rodent droppings. However, if you have an insect infestation, or something a little more unusual, it can take a little longer to work out what you are dealing with.
There is not much you can do about droppings until you can get rid of the pests. All you can do is keep on top of removing them and keep things clean and hygienic while you try to sort out the problem.
Damage To Masonry And Furniture
Something else to look out for when it comes to pests is visible damage. Rodents will chew their way through almost anything to get to where the food is, and unfortunately, this damage is often irreversible. This usually means you must get some replacement cupboards or boards, and depending on how bad the damage is, you might need to call a professional in.
You also might find that you need a complete renovation in some areas of the home where patching things up just will not do. This will help keep pests out for good and deter them from trying to get inside.
Kitchens can often see the brunt of the damage, as that is where the goodies are stored. So, if you feel like it is time for a new kitchen and some mice have forced your hand in that direction, head over to nonpareilsolutions.co.uk to discuss your options.
A new kitchen can help ensure that you keep out anything you do not want in your home, and if you are prone to pests, this can be considered during your design and renovation.
You Notice Bites On Your Body
Bed bugs are up there with one of the worst infestations you can get. Not only are they very difficult to exterminate, but they are also excellent at breeding.
There are some clear signs that you may have a bed bug problem, and one of them is itchy bites over your body. On top of that, you might also find brown bits or splodges lining your bed (bedbug poo), which can be another indication that you might have a problem.
Getting rid of these pests does take a little bit of time. Washing everything on a boiling wash is essential. Alternatively, you can put any affected clothes, bedding, or removable upholstery in the freezer for 3-4 days, ensuring their demise. It is also important to keep on top of hoovering and cleaning, so they do not have time to settle down and create a home for themselves.
If you have been bitten, do your best not to scratch the area so they do not get infected, and treat the bites too.
You Notice A Trail Of Eager Ants
Ants might not necessarily be what you could consider a common pest, but if you do find a trail of determined team workers on the way to your cupboard, it is best to get it sorted sooner, rather than later. Ant nests outside are much easier to deal with than inside. Be careful using poison if you have pets, and if you have the patience, you can guide the line out of your house and relocate them.
Conclusion
Having pests in the home can be a real pain. At best, it can be an inconvenience, but at worst, it can be a serious health hazard. Not many people want to harm the animals that move into their homes, but it is important to relocate them, so they do not cause any more problems. Hiring a professional pest removal company, renovating your home to make sure it is secure, and doing what you can to deter animals are the three main actions to take if you have a problem.
Keep your eyes peeled for the tell-tale signs that you might have some little intruders, and make sure to keep on top of them if you do. If they do show up in hoards, always try to move them along humanely, and turn to the professionals when required.