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Pest ControlJanuary 21, 2023

Dangers of DIY Pest Control: What to Know Before Trying It

Dangers of DIY Pest Control: What to Know Before Trying It

As a homeowner in Virginia, you already have plenty of things to worry about – from keeping the lawn mowed, to maintaining healthy home systems. Unfortunately, though, there’s one more thing that needs your attention: pests! Even if you’re vigilant with regular maintenance around the house and yard, it can still be difficult to protect yourself against bugs and other critters looking for an easy meal or sofa cushion nesting ground. And while many people think they can save time and money by attempting DIY pest control methods without professional help, this is rarely ever the case.

This blog post will discuss the dangers of DIY pest control, tips for safe and effective DIY pest control, and things to take before trying out DIY pest control in Virginia beach; at home. Read on to learn more!

5 Dangers of DIY Pest Control

When you do it yourself with pest control, then you might think you’re saving money – but the truth is, it can be costlier in the long run. Here are a few dangers that come with DIY solutions:

1. Inaccurate Identification:

Before treating a pest problem, it’s important to correctly identify what type of critter is invading your home or yard. But if you don’t have experience in this area, then you may not be able to tell the difference between a harmless leaf bug and a destructive termite. This could mean your solution won’t work – or worse, it could worsen the problem.

2. Ineffective Treatment:

DIY solutions are often ineffective because they don’t provide long-term prevention or control of your pest problem. Many times, DIY methods only tackle the surface issue and don’t get to the root of the problem.

3. Unsafe Chemicals:

Many DIYers turn to harsh chemicals like pesticides and insecticides to get rid of pests – but these can be dangerous if misused. Some chemicals pose an even greater danger if they’re ingested by children or pets.

4. Health Risks:

In addition to the risks posed by the chemicals used, there are also health risks associated with exposure to pests and their droppings. This can range from allergic reactions to even more serious illnesses requiring medical attention.

5. Wasted Time & Money:

Finally, DIY pest control is often a waste of time and money as it rarely produces long-term results. In some cases, you might end up needing professional help anyway – so why not just go straight to the source in the first place?

5 Tips for Safe & Effective DIY Pest Control

If you’re still determined to try out DIY pest control methods, then here are a few tips for doing it safely and effectively:

Tip # 1. Research Effective Solutions:

Before attempting any DIY methods, it’s important to research which solutions have been proven effective for the type of pest problem you’re dealing with. Read up on other people’s experiences to get an idea of what works and what doesn’t.

Tip #2. Follow Label Instructions:

If you do decide to use any chemicals, be sure to read the label carefully and follow all instructions closely. Also, remember to hold off from using any products until you’ve correctly identified the problem.

Tip #3. Use Natural Solutions:

Whenever possible, opt for natural solutions instead of chemicals to get rid of pests. For example, you can make your natural insecticide using common household ingredients like vinegar and soap.

Tip #4. Cover Your Skin & Wear Protective Gear:

When dealing with any type of chemicals, it’s important to cover your skin and wear protective gear such as goggles and a face mask. This will help protect you from inhaling or coming into contact with hazardous materials while also ensuring that you don’t spread the problem further than necessary!

Tip #5. Call in Professional Help When Needed:

Lastly, if all else fails or you’re still not sure what to do, then it’s best to call in the professionals. This will ensure that your pest problem is handled safely and effectively – so you can go back to living in peace.

DIY pest control can be a great way to save money and time – but it’s important to remember that it’s not always the safest or most effective solution. It’s better to take preventive measures such as sealing up cracks and crevices, proper sanitation, and eliminating moisture whenever possible. And if you’re still unsure of what steps to take, then don’t hesitate to call in professional help. Good luck!

4 Things to Know Before Trying DIY Pest Control

Before trying a DIY solution for your pest problem, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

1. Proper Identification:

The first step towards successful DIY pest control is correctly identifying the type of pests you’re dealing with. Without proper identification, it can be hard to determine which solutions will work and which won’t.

2. Dangers of Misidentification:

Misidentifying pests can be dangerous – if you’re trying to get rid of ants, for example, but have misidentified them as termites, then you’re likely to use the wrong solution and end up making the problem worse.

3. Dangers of Chemical Use:

Many DIY solutions involve using chemical sprays and baits, which can be dangerous if not used correctly. Inhaling or coming into contact with these products can cause health problems ranging from allergies to more severe illnesses.

4. Professional Help June Be Needed:

In some cases, DIY solutions may not be enough – and you may need to call in professional help. If that’s the case, then don’t hesitate – it’s better to get the problem handled safely and effectively than risk making things worse!

DIY pest control can be a great way to save money and time – but it’s important to remember that it’s not always the safest or most effective solution. It’s better to take preventive measures such as sealing up cracks and crevices, proper sanitation, and eliminating moisture whenever possible. If you’re still unsure of what steps to take, then don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.

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Why Universal

How We Compare to Other Pest Control Companies

Not every pest control company in Hampton Roads offers the same thing. Here is a straight comparison of what you get with Universal Pest Control and what is common elsewhere in the industry.

Comparison of Universal Pest & Termite, Inc. against common practice among other pest control companies serving Hampton Roads.
UniGuard ProgramExclusive
Universal Pest Control

Termite protection and full pest control combined in one membership for one low monthly payment — from $59/month, with the termite warranty and quarterly pest service included together.

Most pest control companies

Termite protection and pest control are usually sold as two separate agreements, with two renewals and two bills to keep track of.

SmartPay financingExclusive
Universal Pest Control

$0-down payment options on termite treatments, baiting systems, and repairs, so the work can start before payday. Simple, predictable monthly payments.

Most pest control companies

Financing, where it is offered, is commonly arranged separately through a third-party lender.

Pest Guard Attic Insulation™Exclusive
Universal Pest Control

Hampton Roads' only licensed Pest Guard Insulation™ installer, through our sister company Universal Insulation Doctor — insulation manufactured with an EPA-registered pest preventative, so the replacement itself resists the insects that ruined the original.

Most pest control companies

Attic insulation is typically referred out, and standard fiberglass has no pest deterrent built into the material.

Total Home Health Network
Universal Pest Control

Pest and termite control, attic insulation, and duct cleaning coordinated under one roof through the Universal family of companies — one point of contact for the whole job, done in the right order.

Most pest control companies

Pest control only. Insulation and duct work are usually booked with separate vendors on separate timelines.

A+ BBB rating
Universal Pest Control

BBB accredited since 2007 with an A+ rating, earned through consistent, honest work in the same community.

Most pest control companies

Accreditation and ratings vary by company — worth checking before you book anyone.

26+ years in business
Universal Pest Control

Protecting Hampton Roads homes since 2000 — more than 26 years in the same market, with over 100,000+ homes serviced.

Most pest control companies

Tenure in the area varies widely; newer branches and recently opened franchises are common.

Family owned & operated
Universal Pest Control

Owned and run by a family that has lived in Hampton Roads their whole lives. The people who answer the phone and the crews at your door are your neighbors.

Most pest control companies

Ownership varies — many local branches are franchises of national brands, with crews dispatched from outside the area.

Guarantees in writing
Universal Pest Control

Pest-Free Guarantee and Termite-Free Guarantee: if pests come back between scheduled visits, so do we, at no extra charge. Free inspections, plus same-day and next-day service.

Most pest control companies

Retreatment terms, callback windows, and what counts as covered differ from contract to contract.

The highlighted Universal Pest & Termite column reflects services we provide directly or through the Universal family of companies. The “Most pest control companies” column describes common industry practice in general terms and is not a statement about any particular company — some companies may offer services that are similar, so ask any provider exactly what their plan, warranty, and quote include before you sign. Financing on approved credit.