DIY Pest Control vs Professional

Do you need pest control service or DIY? In the days of endless “how-to” articles and YouTube videos, many people want to know if DIY pest control is enough or if it’s time to call a pest control expert.

Knowing the advanced signs of a problem with pests in or around your residence or office can help you determine if choosing professional pest control is the right way to bring the problem under control.

Ignoring the tell-tale signs and waiting will only make the infestation worse and improperly managed DIY solutions can put your family in contact with dangerous (and less-than-effective) chemicals, poisons, and traps.

These 6 common signs of an infestation and pest problems warrant calling a pest control expert. With regular pest control service, you can get a handle on the problem, know what you are facing, and have a plan to effectively remove pests once and for all. Knowing when to seek professional pest control allows you to remove the problem and be proactive in preventing ongoing infestations before it spreads further out of control.

Read More: 7 Common Questions About Pest Control

6 Signs You Should Call Pest Control vs DIY

Droppings, Grease Marks, & More

Pests are usually good at hiding, but they can’t always cover their trail. Droppings and urine spots are some of the most common signs of pests. Larger droppings are typically a sign of mice or rodents, while the droppings of smaller insects may resemble ground pepper. Other pests may leave behind grease marks, scratches, or shed body parts. If you encounter any of these signs, call pest control immediately. Droppings and urine can carry dangerous pathogens, so be sure to ask your pest control expert how to safely clean them up.

Gnawing on Food Packaging

Just like us, pests seek shelter, food, and water. If you notice gnaw marks or holes on food and packaging, it’s a sign that pests are trying to get their next meal.

Structural Damage

From gnaw marks on furniture, walls, and rugs to tunnels running along your wall, pests will likely inflict damage as they carve out a space in your home. Pest-caused damage is much more serious than a few unsightly walls – when left unchecked, some pests will burrow their way into wood surfaces and through electrical wiring. This can make your home’s very structure unstable and contribute to electrical fires.

Strange Noises

Many pests will make their homes in your walls or the structural components of the building. Scratching, rustling, and clawing from within your walls or above the ceiling (especially at night) are a sure sign of pests.

Odd Smells

If you notice strange odors, the infestation is likely a bigger problem that needs expert treatment. Every pest has a different odor, but a few examples include:

• Mice and rodents have an ammonia-like smell
• Bed bugs smell musty and slightly sweet
• Roaches give off an oily smell

You See Pests

The most obvious sign of pests is actually seeing them. If you see a pest (including eggs and larvae) it’s time to call pest control. The more pests you see, alive or dead, is a signal of a bigger issue. Seeing pest activity during the daytime is also an indicator of a major problem.

Premier Pest Control In Oregon

Seeing signs of pests or the critters themselves can be concerning. Long-term exposure to pests can cause damage to your home and contribute to health concerns, so don’t put off calling a pest control expert. With same-day service, pet-friendly solutions, and guaranteed pest extermination services, Bug Zapper is here to help you live pest-free, year-round. Contact us today!