By: Maureen Griffin
We all expect to be swatting a few mosquitoes at dusk when we’re outside this Summer, but what about finding crawly-creatures inside? We asked James and Angela Grundy, owners of Hometown Pest and Termite Service in Granbury, TX, what exactly can we do to help keep pests away. “There’s plenty of things a homeowner can do,” says James, “look for and remove conducive conditions that attract pests, such as:
- shrubs and trees touching the house
- leaving outside lights on at night
- soil that is up above the foundation and wood piles stacked against the house
- leaking faucets on the outside.
But what if we’re seeing bugs in the house already? How quickly can pest control fix the problem? “Most results are immediate,” says Grundy, “however sometimes it can take time depending on the type of pest and the source. For instance, if you have rodents, they may take some time to trap or for them to find the bait. Pest Control should not just be about getting rid of the critters we hate to see, but also how they got in or the source of their nests.” For instance, field mice may seem more prevalent in the summer when they’re searching for water, shelter and food. Be sure to seal up any openings where pest can get in, such as doors and windows, thresholds on doors and in attics and crawl spaces.
Since many of us love our pets and animals, we asked Grundy if there’s pest management systems that are safe for dogs & cats? “Yes, this is why a licensed technician should be used when applying any type of restricted pesticide. They have been trained on the right amount to use and where to use them according to the Department of Agriculture. Your technician must have a thorough knowledge of the chemicals they are using, how to apply them, and who they are safe for. Utilizing green products and Integrated Pest Management (IPM), where technicians seal up openings are also successful in ridding the unwanted.”
For those looking to buy a new home in Parker or Hood County, you’ve most likely heard of a buyer’s inspection that produces a report on the condition of the house. What you may not have heard of is a “Wood Destroying Insect” report, or WDI, which Grundy recommends is a wise investment on behalf of the buyer. “The WDI is an additional fee from the home inspection, usually anywhere from $80 and up, but it can help potential buyers avoid purchasing a home that has signs of wood destroying insects. If the home does not pass the WDI, they may have the opportunity to opt-out of buying the home, unless it’s treated.”
Bugs, rodents and pests know no boundaries other than physical ones. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a charming cottage or a spacious ranch hacienda, those bugs looking for water and rodents looking for food are indiscriminate. Lucky for us we have partners who are experts in pest control and can help you exterminate your summer party crashers!
