For many homeowners, pests like cockroaches or rodents may not be a big concern, as they are commonly associated with dirty or unkempt homes. However, Census data show that over 10% of homes in the US have had a cockroach or rodent infestation in the past 12 months.
Unfortunately, in urban and rural settings across Maryland, these pests are more prevalent than you might think, including water-loving pests such as mosquitoes, termites, and ants.
Dealing with a pest infestation of any kind can put a huge dent in your wallet, as you’ll likely end up paying for unexpected pest control services.
As a result, many homeowners opt to try their hand at DIY pest control as a means to save money. However, doing this can do more harm than good, as most pest infestations require the services and expertise of a professional exterminator to be effectively addressed.
Here is everything you should know before attempting to tackle a pest problem on your own, as well as how to hire the right exterminator for the job.
The Dangers of DIY Pest Control
Performing DIY pest control in your home may seem like the most cost-effective solution, but doing so can actually cause more problems. Some of the dangers of DIY pest control include:
1. Misidentifying the Pest Problem
Anyone who is not a professional exterminator runs the risk of misidentifying the type of pest present in a home. Certain pests are commonly mistaken for one another, such as termites and carpenter ants, and confusing the two can make it more difficult to identify and properly treat a pest problem.
2. Using the Wrong Products or Techniques
If you’re not a professional exterminator and don’t have extensive knowledge of pests, you may accidentally use the wrong pest control products or techniques. This is especially true when it comes to using store-bought products, such as Raid or Hot Shot. Using the wrong products or techniques can fail to actually treat an infestation and harm pets or family members.
3. Health Risks from Chemicals and Exposure
In addition to accidentally using the wrong pest control products, you also run the risk of exposing yourself to harmful chemicals by trying to treat a pest infestation on your own.
The harsh chemicals found in many pest control products are not intended to be inhaled or exposed to for long periods of time. Failing to read the instructions carefully can have devastating consequences when it comes to the health of you and your loved ones.
4. Worsening the Infestation
Many homeowners who choose to address a pest problem on their own run the risk of worsening the infestation. This can happen due to a lack of knowledge about the type of pest you’re dealing with, their behavioral patterns, and how to effectively eliminate them.
For example, homeowners may mistakenly believe that they are free of a cockroach infestation if they don’t see them for a few days, only to find out that the infestation had grown in the recesses of their home.
5. Property Damage
Pests like termites and carpenter ants can be incredibly difficult and frustrating to eliminate. Failing to properly eliminate these pests can result in thousands of dollars in potential property damage as these wood-destroying organisms gnaw away at essential building parts, such as floor joists, wall studs, and attic rafters.
6. Short-Term Fixes That Don’t Last
While a quick fix may be tempting to address a pest infestation, it is essential to note that these solutions do not always last. For example, many homeowners often experience short-term relief from mosquitoes and ticks when applying a barrier spray, but often find these pests returning within a month without the proper preventative measures in place.
7. Ignoring the Root Cause
This leads us to our last point. Ignoring the primary causes of pest infestations and covering them up by using store-bought chemicals or traps can do more harm than good, as these pests will likely return when you least expect it and wreak havoc on your outdoor or indoor spaces.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Exterminator
When dealing with an infestation of any kind, it is always in your best interest to hire a professional exterminator. A trusted and experienced exterminator will possess extensive knowledge of the various types of pests in your area, as well as the methods to target and eliminate each one.
A professional exterminator will also know which chemicals are safe to use in the home, versus which ones will require you to leave the property for some time.
- Local pest expertise: Maryland exterminators are familiar with region-specific pests like Eastern subterranean termites, brown marmorated stink bugs, and deer mice.
- Safe chemical usage: Experts use EPA-approved products safely, reducing health risks to your family and pets.
- Seasonal pest strategies: Professionals understand how Maryland’s humid summers and cold winters affect pest behavior and tailor treatments accordingly.
- Long-term prevention: Local exterminators can help seal entry points and recommend ongoing maintenance to keep pests from returning.
- Time and cost efficiency: Avoid wasting money on ineffective store-bought solutions by getting it right the first time.
- Access to advanced tools: Professionals use commercial-grade traps, baits, and equipment not available to consumers.
- Guaranteed results: Many Maryland pest control companies offer follow-up visits or service guarantees for your peace of mind.
Instances When DIY Pest Control May Be Permissible
It is not typically recommended to take matters into your own hands when it comes to pest control. However, if you notice a small number of ants in your home during the summer months, using store-bought ant traps may be effective at killing them. Nevertheless, for larger infestations or recurring pests, you will want to contact a professional exterminator.
How to Find the Right Pest Control Expert
Finding the right pest control expert can make all the difference in protecting your home. Start by reading reviews from real Maryland customers who can speak to the quality and reliability of the service.
Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they’ve worked with a company they trust—word of mouth is often one of the best ways to find a reputable provider. Look for licensed professionals with experience in treating pests common to your area, and be sure to choose a company that offers clear communication, transparent pricing, and follow-up support.
Need a trusted local expert? Contact Pest Czar today to learn how our certified technicians can protect your home or business with safe, effective, and eco-friendly solutions.
FAQs
Why is DIY pest control often ineffective?
DIY pest control is often ineffective because store-bought chemicals are not typically strong enough to address an entire pest population in a home. These treatments are also often applied incorrectly, which can exacerbate an infestation and compromise the health of those living in a home.
Are over-the-counter pest control products safe to use?
While many over-the-counter pest control products are safe to use when applied correctly, it is essential to read the directions carefully to ensure you know exactly how to apply these chemicals.
What are the signs that a pest problem is beyond DIY solutions?
If you see more than one pest in your home or a pest infestation keeps returning, that is a good indicator that you should contact a professional exterminator.