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Pest Emergencies: When to DIY and When to Call the Professionals

April 01, 2024

Learn when DIY pest control can work—and when it's time to call in the pros.

Dealing with pests invading your home can be a stressful experience. From moths fluttering around your kitchen to ants marching through your living room, these unwelcome guests can disrupt your peace of mind and potentially pose health risks to you and your loved ones. While some pest problems may seem minor and manageable with DIY solutions, others require the expertise of professional pest control experts. Knowing when to tackle the issue yourself and when to seek professional help can make a significant difference in effectively managing pest emergencies.

DIY Pest Control Solutions

#1: Moths in the Kitchen

Fire ant mound in backyard grass

Discovering moths in your kitchen may initially induce panic, but it should also serve as a wake-up call to clean and organize your kitchen cabinets and pantry. Before discarding any food items, identify the type of moths present, as different species have varied preferences. Organizing your pantry and disposing of infested items can often resolve the issue without the need for professional intervention. Restock your kitchen with brand-new food items and properly store them in air-tight containers.

#2: Ants in the Kitchen

While it's tempting to address ant infestations with DIY methods, such as over-the-counter sprays or baits, these solutions may inadvertently exacerbate the problem. Spraying ants directly can cause them to scatter, relocating their colonies to other areas of your home. Instead, focus on eliminating food sources, sealing entry points the ants might be using, and using bait stations strategically around your house.

#3: Fire Ant Mounds in the Yard

Dealing with fire ant mounds in your yard requires a careful approach to ensure effective eradication. Avoid the common mistake of applying granules directly onto the mound, as this fails to target the queen—the heart of the colony. Instead, apply granules around the perimeter of the mound to intercept foraging fire ants and disrupt their nesting sites.

When to Call the Pest Control Professionals

termite damage on interior wall of house

#1: Persistent Infestations

If your efforts to control pests prove ineffective and the infestation persists despite your best attempts, it's time to enlist professional help. Pest control professionals like BREDA Pest Management have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to assess the extent of the infestation and implement targeted treatments for long-term relief.

#2: Health and Safety Concerns

Certain pests, such as rodents and stinging insects, can pose significant health and safety risks to you and your family. Attempting to handle these pests without proper precautions can lead to injuries or exposure to harmful pathogens. Professional pest control services prioritize safety measures and employ appropriate techniques to mitigate these risks effectively.

#3: Structural Damage

Pests like termites and carpenter ants have the potential to cause extensive damage to your home's structure if left unchecked. Detecting early signs of infestation—like hollow-sounding wood, peeling paint, and visible tunnels—warrants immediate professional intervention to prevent further deterioration and costly repairs.

Understanding the distinction between DIY pest control solutions and professional pest control services is essential for effectively managing pest emergencies when they strike. While minor issues like moths or small ant colonies may be resolved with DIY methods, persistent infestations, health concerns, and structural damage necessitate the expertise of trained professionals like BREDA Pest Management. Our team is ready to address your pest problems promptly, implementing the appropriate strategies to safeguard your home and restore your peace of mind. Don't hesitate to reach out to the BREDA team when you're facing challenging pest emergencies. Your home and your family's safety and well-being are worth the investment in professional pest management.



If you're tired of wondering what the pests in or around your home are doing and just want them gone, don't hesitate to give us a call. The BREDA Guarantee promises to protect your home and keep it protected—no matter the circumstances. Schedule an inspection online or give us a call at 770-466-6700.