Standard pest control treatment plans.
As mentioned earlier, the cost of exterminator services can also vary based on the type of treatment needed.
In addition to sealing a home to prevent recurring pest problems, other common treatments include:
Baiting is one of the most common treatments for pest control, says William. "It can be cheaper, but it takes longer for results in most cases," he explains. When baiting, a pro strategically places food-based products in your home. When the animals or insects eat the products, they die.
Spray treatments involve using insecticides or pesticides to eliminate pests. Costs may depend on the size of the treated area.
Fumigation is often used for severe infestations. This method involves sealing off the area and introducing a fumigant. Fumigation can be more expensive due to specialized equipment and materials.
Heat treatments utilize high temperatures to eradicate pests. While adequate for specific infestations, this may be pricier than other methods.
DIY pest control vs. professional services.
Is it cheaper to do your own pest control? When faced with a pest problem at home, you might consider handling it yourself to save money. Or, maybe you'd rather hire a professional exterminator because you don't have the time.
Both options have pros and cons, and it's essential to consider your situation before deciding.
When to try DIY pest control.
DIY pest control can be an appealing option for budget-conscious people who want to take matters into their own hands. Here are some scenarios where DIY makes sense, according to the professionals:
1. You can use baiting methods. You can find a wide range of products available in stores or online."Baiting is the only interior treatment I recommend for homeowners," says William. "There's no difference between professional bait and over-the-counter bait."
2. You just need to spray your home's exterior with repellent. You can also purchase an over-the-counter repellent and apply it to all windows and doors as required.
You can also try making your own repellent using natural ingredients. "If natural products are used, always remember they break down faster due to weather conditions and will need to be applied more often," says William. Jeffrey also warns that DIY and store-bought repellents may be less effective than professional treatments because they "don't systematically reduce populations."
3. You want to get rid of gnats or flies. Do you have a gnat or fruit fly problem? Jeffery recommends his clients try to eliminate the problem themselves.
"[Eliminating gnats or flies] would require more money and headache than it would be worth for us to treat," he says. "DIY/store methods plus some additional conducive condition source reduction can clear the issue up." When to hire an exterminator.
It’s important to note that DIY pest control may not always be effective, especially for more severe infestations. Hire a professional if any of the following applies to you
1. Rodents are inside your home. You should hire a pro when dealing with mice, rats, squirrels, and other rodents (or wildlife).
"You're basically playing Whac-A-Mole if you don't know what you're doing," says Jeffrey. "There are at least 20 to 30 potential entry points people wouldn't even consider."
Some of the most common entry points for rodents to enter your home include your roof, A/C line, and garage edges, says Jesus. A professional can catch and remove rodents, find where they entered, and seal the entry point to stop more rodents from getting in.
2. You're dealing with a persistent, recurring, or large-scale infestation. Exterminators have the expertise, experience, and access to professional-grade products that can effectively eliminate pests and prevent future infestations.
3. You need pesticides to combat the problem. Unlike baits, "there's a drastic difference between professional and over-the-counter spray," says William. Plus, only those with a license can use professional pesticide applicators.
Also, using pesticides without proper training can be risky, exposing you and your family to harmful chemicals.
4. You realize the cost of DIY pest control is higher than you expected. DIY pest control is not always the most affordable option. If your pest problem requires chemicals and equipment you don't have, you'll need to factor in the cost of buying everything you need.
"Equipment varies, but you would need to buy a sprayer, a backpack, dusters, a drill set, and at least 10 other tools to do the job like a pro," says Jeffery. And "if you use professional grade products, you are paying at least 30% to 60% markup when purchased online."
The bottom line: DIY methods may seem more affordable upfront, but they may end up costing more in the long run if the problem persists. Meanwhile, professional services may be more expensive initially. However, they provide long-term solutions that save time, money, and stress.
Tips to reduce exterminator costs.
If you don't want to try a DIY method, you can still find ways to save when hiring a professional pest control company. Try using the following strategies:
1. Get multiple quotes.
Don't be afraid to negotiate pricing and explore cost-saving options. Contact multiple exterminators and request quotes for their services. This will help ensure you're getting a fair price.
2. Ask about discounts.
"I encourage homeowners to be honest about their budget upfront," says William. "[A pro] will be able to educate you on how to choose the best service for the best value."
If your pro knows you're on a tight budget, they may also be able to give you a discount. For example, pros may offer:
A free inspection or consultation during the initial visit
Lower pricing for repeat customers
3. Discuss alternative treatments.
Your exterminator may be able to suggest alternative treatments or less expensive methods to address the problem. For example, they might recommend using non-toxic or eco-friendly products that are equally effective but more budget-friendly.
4. Take preventative measures.
When dealing with pests, prevention is key. By taking these preventive measures, you can avoid infestations and save on exterminator costs in the long run:
Maintain a clean and hygienic environment. Pests are attracted to food crumbs, spills, and unattended garbage. Regularly clean your living spaces, including the kitchen, dining area, and storage areas.
Store food in airtight containers and promptly dispose of any waste. Eliminating pests' food sources can discourage them from entering your home.
Seal entry points that pests may use to gain access to your property. Inspect your doors, windows, and foundation for cracks or gaps. Pay special attention to areas where utilities enter your home, as pests can squeeze through even the smallest openings.
How to hire an exterminator.
To ensure you hire the best exterminator at a fair, competitive price, utilize the following tips:
Ask for a free quote or estimate: Because of the myriad factors involved in determining treatment, most pest companies provide free, on-site quotes to gauge the level of infestation and action required.
Check their credentials. Ensure the exterminator you hire is licensed, certified, and insured in your state. Visit your local and state governments' websites to determine the requirements for pest control services and pesticide applicators.
FAQs
How often should I pest control my house?
Jeffrey recommends getting general pest control every quarter (every 3 months). This level of frequency and reapplication is often needed to "knock down populations and keep them down."
Pro tip: If you have a severe mosquito problem, you may need pest control services every 3 to 5 weeks, says Jeffrey.
What are the signs I have a pest problem?
Early detection of pest infestations is vital. By identifying signs of a pest problem early, you can prevent further damage and avoid costly repairs. Here are some common indicators:
Unusual droppings or urine stains
Chewed or damaged furniture, wires, or fabrics
Foul odors, especially in hidden areas
Nests or burrows in dark corners or hidden spaces
Scratching or scurrying noises from walls or ceilings
*A note about project costs featured in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.
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