Signs of Common Pests in the Home

Homeowners are often surprised by a pest infestation, as they are not always aware of the signs of a pest problem. The extent of the problem can grow quickly before a person decides to call an exterminator. From musky smells to droppings, there are ways homeowners can deduce that a pest issue may be forming. Understand more about signs that pests may be lurking in a home and what to do about it - especially if you are considering selling your home in a buyers market.

Termites in the Home

Some traditional and rustic homes may be more susceptible to a termite infestation, as these small insects devour wood window frames, wood support beams and other wooden products. A homeowner may see tiny particles that resemble sawdust—this is the excrement of termites. Other signs include termite wings or an odd hollow sound upon knocking on wood. When the problem goes unaddressed, termites can cause serious damage to a home. Calling an exterminator may be the only solution, as termites can be difficult for a homeowner to successfully handle on their own.

Cockroaches in the Home

People who keep a clean home may find that the common cockroach decides to make a visit. The German cockroach is one of many types of cockroaches that can be introduced into a home via boxes, grocery bags or secondhand appliances. A few signs of a cockroach problem are feces, dead insects, and a musty or oily smell. Cockroaches cannot only infest a home, but contaminate food sources and cause allergic reactions. Regularly cleaning surfaces and storing food in sealed containers can help address the issue, as can sealing gaps in walls or floors. Thin lines of Boric acid may help keep this insect away. This pest can be difficult to eliminate and homeowners may need to seek the assistance of a professional.

Mice and Rats in the Home

Since they leave droppings everywhere and are quite destructive, mice and rats in the home are a big deal. And it does not take much to attract them to the inside of the residence. Cold weather, crumbs on the floor, or just general bad luck can all lead to a serious rodent infestation.

Mice and rats will chew their way to comfortable living accommodations and food galore. For that reason, obviously chewed building materials, food boxes, and more is usually the first sign of a problem. As they work, they leave their droppings here and there, which is another sure sign of an infestation.

Although traps can work to prevent the problem, they are often not quite enough. Instead, homeowners can bring in pest control pros to block of entry points and create a plan of action to keep rodents at bay.

Prevention and Remediation

There are a multitude of insects and animals that can make their way into a home and begin to multiply. Homeowners can avoid an infestation with a few ounces of prevention. The majority of insects, rodents and other organisms need resources like food and water to thrive. A homeowner can often avoid a pest problem when:

• Removing and recycling old cardboard boxes and paper;
• Washing dishes soon after eating;
• Cleaning any crumbs and spills;
• Taking garbage out often and storing cans far from an entrance;
• Keeping sugar and dry ingredients stored in secure glass or plastic containers; and
• Repairing leaky pipes and fixtures.

Homeowners finding that they may have a few of the same type of pests in their home may want to try some methods to address the issue. After identifying the pest, it is easier to find a potential remedy. For example, ants are a common intruder relatively easy to identify and remediate. Some have success by sealing and caulking entry points and using a commercial repellant like Orange Guard. However, depending on the tenacity of the intruder and the size of the problem, some find it easier to work with an experienced exterminator.

Other Pests

Residents may be subject to a range of different household pests, including blacklegged ticks, bats, bedbugs and more. Some pests are easier to identify than others that may be most active at night. Evidence of pests are often seen in basements, attics, kitchens and bathrooms. Proper identification is often needed before successful elimination of the problem. Nesting materials like shredded paper, unusual odors, and grease or track are common signs of a pest issue.

Remediation may be only part of the solution needed to prevent a reoccurrence. Addressing holes or gaps in the structure of a home's roof, walls or foundation may also be recommended by an exterminator. Leander TX homeowners with a stubborn pest problem can require a multi-pronged approach when trying to eliminate the issue.