Pest prevention methods

As they say, prevention is better than cure. The same principle can be applied to pest control in your home. There are several do-it-yourself precautions that you can take to avoid unwanted problems such as a cockroach, rodent, flea, termite, wasp or spider infestation.

If you do happen to discover a serious pest problem such as a termite or dangerous spider infestation, it is generally best to contact a qualified pest control expert before attempting to fix the problem yourself.

How to avoid pest infestations

Basic hygiene is common sense when it comes to avoiding pest plagues, although once the point of a severe infestation has been reached, it is generally best treated by an expert. Pest control is especially vital around the home or places where food is stored or prepared.

Simple steps to keeping your home pest-free include:

• Eliminating food and moisture conditions around the home that attract pests, such as repairing leaking taps, water pipes and air conditioning units, and diverting water from the sub-floor.
• Ensuring gutters and drains are kept as squeaky clean as possible.
• Vents also need to be kept clear, as well as open, plus screens placed on outdoor-facing vents.
• Removing excessive plant cover and wood mulch around the home.
• Sealing entry points surrounding water and utility lines or pipes on-site.
• Removing timber that is in direct contact with the ground on your property.
• Keeping firewood, loose timbers or paper away from sub floor areas and buildings (timber supports on your home also shouldn't be in contact with the soil).
• Getting rid of stumps and debris near the house.
• Employing physical control methods, such as the use of window screens, electronic bug killers and even a fly swatter to keep pests at bay around your home.
• Blocking possible entrances, such as holes created by broken bricks and air vents - mice, for example, can pass through holes no larger than the thickness of a pencil.
• Filling holes in brickwork with cement or plaster (airbricks, alternatively, can be covered with wire mesh).

Taking a few precautionary steps around the home can help nip any potential problem in the bud. Of course, these are only prevention methods. If you do have a real pest issue on your hands it is best to seek the help of a professional pest controller.