You know the drill – ants marching across your kitchen counter, spiders spinning webs in the corners, and rodents scurrying around your attic.
These are frustrating – yet all too common – occurrences that leave us, as homeowners, scratching our heads and wondering what we did to invite these pests indoors in the first place.
Chances are, you probably aren’t laying out the welcome mat for these creatures and are instead just wondering how you can get rid of them as soon as possible. That’s why we’re here to teach you how to prepare for pest control before your next visit.
How to Prepare for Pest Control
The great news is that Banner Pest Control is here to help with our tailored pest control solutions for San Francisco Bay, San Jose, and the East Bay Area. If you’ve recently hired us to help out with eradicating these troubling pests, you might be wondering how to prepare for pest control.
It’s easier than you might think! Just follow these steps.
1. Know Your Pests
In the Bay Area, the most common pests include ants, cockroaches, spiders, and rodents. Knowing what type of pests you’re dealing with can help you prepare more effectively. For instance, ants often seek food and water, while rodents look for shelter and warmth.
Again, ants are a common nuisance, particularly during the warmer months. Look for trails leading to food sources in your kitchen and pantry. In San Jose, carpenter ants are especially problematic as they can damage wooden structures.
As for rodents, these are especially problematic, as they can cause significant damage to your home. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and nests made from shredded paper or fabric. In the East Bay, roof rats are prevalent and often found in attics and crawl spaces.
Another common pest is the spider. Spiders can be beneficial by controlling other pests, but some species can be dangerous. Look for webs in corners, basements, and garages. The San Francisco Bay Area is home to many spider species, including the harmless daddy longlegs and the venomous black widow.
2. Clear the Clutter
Pests of all kinds love cluttered areas where they can hide and breed. Before the pest control team arrives, declutter your home. Focus on areas like the kitchen, garage, and basement.
In the kitchen, take time to remove items from countertops, clean out the pantry, and store food in sealed containers. Ants and cockroaches are particularly attracted to crumbs and spills, so a clean kitchen is essential.
Garages, on the other hand, often become storage areas for unused items (and then end up harboring pests). Clear out old cardboard boxes, and organize tools and equipment. Rodents love nesting in cluttered spaces, so reducing clutter can make a big difference.
And don’t forget – basements are prime real estate for pests like spiders and rodents. Remove any unnecessary items, and store belongings in sealed plastic bins. This not only helps with pest control but also makes your basement more functional.
3. Protect Your Pets
Pest control treatments can be harmful to pets if not properly managed, so you’ll need to make sure your furry friends are safe by taking a few precautions.
During a pest control treatment, keep pets in a room that won’t be treated. If possible, arrange for them to stay with a friend or at a pet daycare for the day. This is especially important in San Jose, where pet-friendly homes often have multiple animals.
Similarly, you should store pet food and water bowls away from treatment areas. Pests are attracted to pet food, so keeping it sealed and stored properly can prevent future infestations.
After treatment, make sure you follow any specific instructions from your pest control provider regarding pet safety. This may include waiting a certain amount of time before allowing pets back into treated areas.
4. Communicate with Your Pest Control Provider
One of the most important elements of long-lasting pest control is good communication. Take some time to express any concerns or specific pest problems you have with your provider.
Also, be as specific as you can. Provide details about where and when you’ve seen pests. This helps the pest control team target their treatment more effectively.
You should also feel free to ask about the products and methods that will be used. Some homeowners prefer environmentally friendly options, which are widely available in the eco-conscious Bay Area. You should also ask if you can stay in your home during the treatment or will need to leave.
Your homework doesn’t end once the treatment is over, either. Be sure to follow any post-treatment instructions given by your pest control provider. This may include ventilating the treated areas or avoiding certain spaces for a specified time.
5. How to Prepare for Pest Control- Again!
In some cases, you may have to schedule a follow-up treatment in order for the first one to be the most effective. Don’t be afraid to ask your technician about this; they’ll be able to recommend the best schedule based on the types of pests and the extent of the infestation.
Between treatments, keep an eye out for pests. Report any new sightings to your pest control provider, as they may need to modify their approach.
In the future, you may want to consider implementing long-term pest prevention measures. This might include regular inspections or maintenance treatments to keep pests at bay.
Ready, Set, Pest Control!
Preparing for pest control doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and effective treatment process.
Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home pest-free – and safeguarding your peace of mind.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced, friendly team at Banner. We’re here to help you understand how to prepare for pest control and keep your home pest-free for years to come.
