The background to the high cost of do-it-yourself pest control

Pest infestations have increased in number and size in the local area. The control of pests is complex. Consequently, it is important for the homeowner to try and avoid the high cost of do-it-yourself pest control methods. Recently, a range of external elements have led to a proliferation of pests. 

Why am I getting so many pests in my home?

Several different factors, at a range of scales, have combined to create the perfect conditions for an increase in pest numbers. Furthermore, changing factors have occurred on a range of scales from global to local.

The causes of increased pest outbreaks

1. Globalisation has consequently lead to an increase in the movement of goods and services across the globe.
2. Environmental change and a loss of traditional animal habitats.
3. Climate change which includes increasing temperatures and extreme weather events leading to droughts and flooding.
4. Resistant strains of pests. Resistance to pesticides has developed due to repeated use. A pest population will mutate to become resistant to control methods.
5. Finally, there has been a reduction in the numbers of natural predators.

The Geography of Pest Control

Cost of pest control – The Global Scale 

Scientists have reported that insect activity in the temperate growing regions of the world will rise in proportion to rising temperatures. The temperature rise is primarily caused by climate change.  A proportional increase in insect activity will result in worldwide losses of crops such as rice, corn and wheat. Crop losses will be between 10% and 25% for each one degree celsius rise in global surface temperatures. 

In addition, rising global temperatures will lead to more frequent extreme weather events like droughts and floods.  These events will create an ideal breeding ground for crop eating insects. As a result, there will be a corresponding increase in disease carrying insects.

Cost of pest control – The National Scale

Similarly, in the British Isles, there has been a dramatic increase in pests. This pattern is illustrated by the spread of forest insects. Tree damage caused by aphids is increasing as the climate warms. Moreover, the reproductive rate of insects increases with higher temperatures. In addition, drought stress on forests will increase the susceptibility of trees to aphid and bark beetle attack.

Cost of pest control – The Local Scale

What happens on a larger scale will have an impact on the local environment and our homes. The global picture has been mirrored on the Wirral Peninsula. For example, an increase in rainfall and poorly maintained drainage systems has led to a 40% increase in standing, stagnant water. Stagnant water is the ideal breeding ground for insects

“Bed bugs on the rise in North West England. A high price to pay”

There has been a significant increase in the bed bug population over the past 5-years. Scientists believe that a reduction has been due to:

• A decrease in the use of harmful pesticides.
• Increases in population movement and cheaper international travel.

Bed Bug Facts

• here are two types of bed bugs.  common bed bug and the tropical bed bug. 
• bed bugs don’t carry diseases but their bites can cause irritation.
• bed bugs can survive for more than 6-months between meals
• modern bed bugs are highly resistant to insecticides
• bed bugs are transported by travelers, specifically, they hide away in luggage folded clothes.

The impact of lockdown on pest numbers

The pandemic is a new major variable that has changed the pest control landscape. The national lockdown in Britain led to an increase in rat and mouse infestation. To illustrate, waste collection companies have reported a 42% increase in infestations. Rodent food sources have increased as waste created in homes has increased. In addition, the sources of foods near pubs and restaurants are no longer available.  An alternative view is that with people being at home they now notice mice and rat infestations in their local areas. 

Furthermore, the British Pest Control Association believes that empty buildings, deserted streets and reduced footfall provides an ideal opportunity for all rodents to thrive. Rats have become more confident in their interactions with humans during lockdown.   

Tips for avoiding the high cost of do-it-yourself pest control

Pest control by the homeowner follows two simple methods:

Firstly, infestation prevention and, secondly, pest infestation treatment. A few simple preventative measures will help to reduce infestation:.

1. Insects read and thrive in areas of stagnant water. Drain areas of stagnant water and insure that ponds and bird baths have clean oxygenated water.
2. Remove clutter from in and around your house.  Dark and undisturbed spaces provide ideal homes for insects.
3. Plug gaps in the exterior of buildings using metal mesh, silicon or expanding foam.
4. Protect exposed wood from moisture.
5. Store pet and wild animal/bird food in secure containers.
6. Reduce household humidity levels using a dehumidifier.
7. Secure bin lids. 

The cost of do-it-yourself pest control

When an infestation takes hold the homeowner may wish to take the DIY approach. In the era of the world wide web access to information and products is freely available. Items and products can be purchased from all over the world.  Tutorial videos on almost any subject can be accessed with a mouse click.

As a result, individuals feel empowered to take maintenance projects into their own hands. However, projects are often measured in financial terms only. The effectiveness and time costs are often ignored.  The real cost does not take into account that good products and techniques in the hands of an inexperienced person will often be unsuccessful.  To illustrate, a recent study estimated that the efficiency of do-it-yourself pest control solutions are only 33% effective compared with pest control professionals.  In addition, the projects take 3 times longer in the hands of an inexperienced practitioner.

The obvious costs of do-it-yourself pest control can soon build up. In order, to solve a basic pest infestation you will need the following equipment;

• Personal protective equipment. A basic disposable coverall suit with hood costs £21.99. A fully adjustable face protection mask costs £23.99. Moreover, the correct respiratory protection equipment is key to protecting the lungs. There are many different types of respirator and they must be suitable for the task.
• Chemical treatments are expensive, for example, a chemical treatment for a carpet beetle infestation costs £19.95.
• Application of a treatment will require the correct equipment. For example, hiring a fogging machine from a local supplier will cost £30 per day. 

A total outlay of £95.93 (prices correct as of February 2021). Obviously prices will fluctuate, however, price fluctuation is usually in an upward direction. In addition, the financial cost does not guarantee success.

Pestcontrol.me.uk: professional and cost effective

In order to avoid the high cost of do-it-yourself pest control it is time to call the experts. The professionals from pestcontrol.me.uk will assess the type and seriousness of the pest infestation.  After that, in conjunction with the homeowner, the technician will decide on the most effective treatment. The treatment will be scheduled and carried out effectively.

The cost of the treatment will be reasonable and proportional to the size of the problem. Above all, pest control when completed by our professionals will give you the peace of mind that comes with living in a pest free environment.

In conclusion, the technicians from pestcontrol.me.uk will provide you with a detailed report and offer expert advice on proofing and prevention techniques.