There are a few facts of life of living. Bills keep coming and don’t stop. More likely than not you’ll have to work for a living. There’s no such thing as a free lunch. And you’re likely to encounter a pest infestation at some point in your life. Yes, it’s not a nice topic. Creepy crawlies like spiders, silverfish and ants love to call your home their own. And rodents like rats and mice can become unwanted houseguests. So if you suspect that you have an infestation there’s a few tell-tale signs that means it’s time to call in the exterminator. Let’s take a closer look.
Leave it to the Professionals
We’ll get to the signs of infestation in a second, but it’s worth explaining something first. It can be tempting to attempt to DIY a pest treatment, but it’s not recommended. Pest control in Mornington or elsewhere is best left to a trained and qualified professional. Only a proper treatment by an exterminator is guaranteed to remove the infestation, and these treatments often come with a six-month warranty so you have peace of mind.
Rodent Droppings
Rodents leave a lot of droppings around the place. Rodent droppings are like small little brown or black pallets, and you’ll often find them in the roof cavity or along the wall line where these disgusting little pests love to run around. Also, they can chew holes in the wall so if you see what you think is a mouse hole it probably is one. It’s important to respond to this infestation immediately as rodents can chew through wiring and create a fire hazard.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are a very common household pest. They are attracted by open food containers and food scraps so it pays to be cautious and pack things into airtight containers and clean as you go. If you notice an unusual smell that can be a sign of infestation, as can tiny little brown or black droppings. Also, cockroaches shed their skins like snakes so if you see lots of these it’s time for the pest remover.
Ants
Ants are pretty easy to spot. The odd one here or there isn’t really an issue but if you notice long trails of them or lots at a time when you may have a problem. Ants are scavengers so again – keep your food covered and clean up your scraps. Pay special attention to sweet foodstuffs like honey or sugar. Ants go crazy over these so keep them in airtight containers.
Termites
Of all the pests listed here, these are the most dangerous to your property, as they can cause extensive and expensive damage to the wooden structure of your home. If your wood is weak or very soft this may be a sign. For example, the vacuum may puncture the skirting board or your finger may press through a door jam. Also, they can cause timber to swell making it difficult to close windows or doors. Definitely get in the pros if you suspect a termite infestation. A treatment may cost money but you’ll save heaps down the line.
Bug Off!
If you suspect any of the above, it’s time to call in the professionals. Keep an eye out for rodent droppings, and you can recognize cockroaches by a funny smell and their droppings and shells. You can spot ants, especially a large trail. Finally, termites can cause damage to your wood which makes it soft and swollen. We pray that you don’t find any of these signs, but if you do then you know what to do!