Predator Pest & Weed Management provides various termite control services for residential and commercial clients throughout the Mendo-Lake area. The company is qualified to work on everything from termite inspections and localized spot treatments to termite damage repairs and termite prevention, and its technicians ensure each project is backed by superior craftsmanship and customer service.

Predator Pest &Weed Management

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Termites may be tiny, but that doesn’t stop them from causing billions of dollars of property damage every year in the United States. As a result, homeowners are in a constant battle to protect their homes from these destructive pests. However, in order to wage a successful war, it’s important to know your enemy and employ the assistance of your allies. In this article, you’ll learn how to identify and prevent a termite infestation, as well as how to find a quality termite control company in your area.
<h3>Differentiating Termite Types</h3>
It’s important to note that not all termite infestations are bad, provided they’re not in or close to our homes. Termites play a vital role in the breakdown and recycling of wood materials, and when they tunnel in the ground, they contribute to aerating the soil and adding nutrients that allow for better plant growth. The problem comes when termites decide to make their homes in and around human structures.
There are three basic types of termites in North America: drywood, dampwood and subterranean.
Drywood termites can be found in dry, undecayed wood and have been found in human structures, trees (including orchards), utility poles, posts, and lumber used for building. They’re most likely found in drier regions of California, including deserts, but the can occur in the coastal areas as well. Drywood termites typically nest above ground.
Dampwood termites are most common in cool, humid areas, particularly along the central and northern coastal regions in California, and they can be found in wood that’s high in moisture, both above ground and below ground. This makes them the typical pest of beach homes; however, they may also be found in high-humidity woods and forests, so they can cause damage to mountain cabins.
Subterranean termites live underground. They require moist environments and can cause damage to foundations and structural supports, particularly if there’s wood rot in the structure.
<h3>Termite Prevention Measures</h3>
There are many things you can do to prevent termites from infesting your home, including:
<ul>
<li>Keep all wooden parts of a building structure at least 12 inches above the ground</li>
<li>Identify and correct any structural issues that may promote termite infestations, such as the use of stucco siding that reaches to the ground</li>
<li>Keep attic and foundation areas well-ventilated</li>
<li>Regularly examine the exterior of the building, including any attached utility or service boxes</li>
<li>Replace wood that’s favored by termites with wood that’s more resistant to termite infestations</li>
<li>Place a sand barrier around the building’s foundation</li>
</ul>
<h3>Identifying a Termite Infestation</h3>
The first sign of a termite infestation in or around your home may come in the form of unusual insect swarms, because termites tend to swarm in fall and spring. You may notice what appears to be tunneling in wood and wood darkening or blistering. Wood that has been damaged by termites can be thin, soft and easily punctured by a knife or screwdriver.
Termite identification is fairly simple in that termites are often mistaken for the flying forms of ants, but they tend to be larger (some varieties are up to one inch long) and their wings, body shape, and antennae are different. While this may help you determine if you have a termite infestation, it’s important to have this confirmed by a certified professional, as there are other ways of determining if you have termites. A certified professional can determine the exact type of termite that has invaded your home and prepare the correct treatment solution.
Unlike other pests, a termite infestation presents a different type of challenge. Whereas many pests invading our homes are coming in to seek shelter and food that may be lying around, termites seek out our homes specifically as a food source and a place of shelter, and they can invade portions of the home not readily accessible by homeowners. As a result, the knowledge needed to eliminate the problem is more specialized, as someone involved in termite control needs to have special knowledge of building construction as well as termite identification and biology.
<h3>Hiring a Termite Control Company</h3>
While prevention is always the best option, if termites have already infested your home, it’s time to go on the offensive and eliminate the problem. To do this, you’ll need to hire a professional termite control company. However, all termite companies are not the same, and it can be hard to differentiate a high-quality company from a low-quality one. So, what can you do?
The simplest way to ensure a quality hire is to choose a Diamond Certified termite control company. Each Diamond Certified company has been rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® in the most <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/how-it-works/" target="_self">accurate rating process</a> anywhere. Plus, when you hire a Diamond Certified company, you’re always backed by the <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/performance-guarantee/" target="_self">Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee</a>.
If you decide not to choose a Diamond Certified termite control company (or if there isn’t one in your area), you’ll have to do independent research on the termite control companies in your area.
<h3>Considering Credentials</h3>
When hiring a termite or pest control company, you should always look for proper licensing and credentials. It’s important to note that termite control is a carefully regulated industry due to the use of pesticides. Indiscriminate pesticide use can cause illness in people and animals. For this reason, it’s important to ensure that any termite control company you’re considering is licensed and certified pursuant to state regulations.
In California, the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) licenses termite control companies and provides courses and examinations toward that licensing. There are different types of certifications and licenses, and different areas in which someone can be certified or licensed. The SPCB recognizes three branches of structural pest control: Branch 1 is the practice of using fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases to control household and wood-destroying pests; Branch 2 uses methods other than fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases; and Branch 3 uses insecticides or structural repairs and corrections, excluding fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases.
The different licenses issued by the SPCB include applicator, field representative and operator. An applicator is someone in an entry level position who can’t be licensed in Branch 1. If you require a termite contractor to use fumigation techniques to eliminate a termite infestation, it’s important to ensure that whoever comes into your home is licensed as a field representative or operator.
In addition to the SPCB, other organizations may certify or license a company, including (but not limited to) the County Agricultural Commissioner, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Pesticide Regulation and the California Department of Public Health. Many termite control companies may hold membership in other organizations as well, including the National Pest Management Association and Pest Control Operators of California.
Most of the organizations that certify and license companies for termite control also maintain a database of complaints and the validity of licensing and certification, as does the Better Business Bureau. When considering a termite control company, remember, you have the right to ask questions. Asking for the particulars of a company’s certification and licensing is one step you can take to ensure you’re working with a reputable company.
<h3>Next Steps</h3>
After you’ve done some basic research, it’s time to talk with a few local companies. When you interview them, make sure you have a written list of questions and note each company’s answers. Don’t settle for the first  company you interview. You have a right to explore your options, but keep in mind that the longer you wait, the more damage termites can do to your home or building.
<a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>
Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-pest-control/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-pest-control/" target="_self">Marin County Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-pest-control/" target="_self">San Francisco Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-county-pest-control/" target="_self">Alameda County Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-pest-control/" target="_self">Sonoma County Pest Control Companies</a>
Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Pest-Control/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Pest Control &amp; Termite Services</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Termites may be tiny, but that doesn&#8217;t stop them from causing billions of dollars of property damage every year in the United States. As a result, homeowners are in a constant battle to protect their homes from these destructive pests. However, in order to wage a successful war, it&#8217;s important to know your enemy and employ the assistance of your allies. In this article, you&#8217;ll learn how to identify and prevent a termite infestation, as well as how to find a quality termite control company in your area.
&nbsp;
<h3>Differentiating Termite Types 
</h3>
It&#8217;s important to note that not all termite infestations are bad, provided they&#8217;re not in or close to our homes. Termites play a vital role in the breakdown and recycling of wood materials, and when they tunnel in the ground, they contribute to aerating the soil and adding nutrients that allow for better plant growth. The problem comes when termites decide to make their homes in and around human structures.
There are three basic types of termites in North America: drywood, dampwood and subterranean.
Drywood termites can be found in dry, undecayed wood and have been found in human structures, trees (including orchards), utility poles, posts, and lumber used for building. They&#8217;re most likely found in drier regions of California, including deserts, but the can occur in the coastal areas as well. Drywood termites typically nest above ground.
Dampwood termites are most common in cool, humid areas, particularly along the central and northern coastal regions in California, and they can be found in wood that&#8217;s high in moisture, both above ground and below ground. This makes them the typical pest of beach homes; however, they may also be found in high-humidity woods and forests, so they can cause damage to mountain cabins.
Subterranean termites live underground. They require moist environments and can cause damage to foundations and structural supports, particularly if there&#8217;s wood rot in the structure.
&nbsp;
<h3>Termite Prevention Measures</h3>
There are many things you can do to prevent termites from infesting your home, including:
<ul>
<li>Keep all wooden parts of a building structure at least 12 inches above the ground</li>
<li>Identify and correct any structural issues that may promote termite infestations, such as the use of stucco siding that reaches to the ground</li>
<li>Keep attic and foundation areas well-ventilated</li>
<li>Regularly examine the exterior of the building, including any attached utility or service boxes</li>
<li>Replace wood that&#8217;s favored by termites with wood that&#8217;s more resistant to termite infestations</li>
<li>Place a sand barrier around the building&#8217;s foundation</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
<h3>Identifying a Termite Infestation</h3>
The first sign of a termite infestation in or around your home may come in the form of unusual insect swarms, because termites tend to swarm in fall and spring. You may notice what appears to be tunneling in wood and wood darkening or blistering. Wood that has been damaged by termites can be thin, soft and easily punctured by a knife or screwdriver.
Termite identification is fairly simple in that termites are often mistaken for the flying forms of ants, but they tend to be larger (some varieties are up to one inch long) and their wings, body shape, and antennae are different. While this may help you determine if you have a termite infestation, it&#8217;s important to have this confirmed by a certified professional, as there are other ways of determining if you have termites. A certified professional can determine the exact type of termite that has invaded your home and prepare the correct treatment solution.
Unlike other pests, a termite infestation presents a different type of challenge. Whereas many pests invading our homes are coming in to seek shelter and food that may be lying around, termites seek out our homes specifically as a food source and a place of shelter, and they can invade portions of the home not readily accessible by homeowners. As a result, the knowledge needed to eliminate the problem is more specialized, as someone involved in termite control needs to have special knowledge of building construction as well as termite identification and biology.
&nbsp;
<h3>Hiring a Termite Control Company 
</h3>
While prevention is always the best option, if termites have already infested your home, it&#8217;s time to go on the offensive and eliminate the problem. To do this, you&#8217;ll need to hire a professional termite control company. However, all termite companies are not the same, and it can be hard to differentiate a high-quality company from a low-quality one. So, what can you do?
The simplest way to ensure a quality hire is to choose a Diamond Certified termite control company. Each Diamond Certified company has been rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® in the most <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/how-it-works/>accurate rating process</a> anywhere. Plus, when you hire a Diamond Certified company, you’re always backed by the <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/performance-guarantee/>Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee</a>.
If you decide not to choose a Diamond Certified termite control company (or if there isn’t one in your area), you’ll have to do independent research on the termite control companies in your area.
&nbsp;
<h3>Considering Credentials</h3>
When hiring a termite or pest control company, you should always look for proper licensing and credentials. It&#8217;s important to note that termite control is a carefully regulated industry due to the use of pesticides. Indiscriminate pesticide use can cause illness in people and animals. For this reason, it&#8217;s important to ensure that any termite control company you&#8217;re considering is licensed and certified pursuant to state regulations.
In California, the Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB) licenses termite control companies and provides courses and examinations toward that licensing. There are different types of certifications and licenses, and different areas in which someone can be certified or licensed. The SPCB recognizes three branches of structural pest control: Branch 1 is the practice of using fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases to control household and wood-destroying pests; Branch 2 uses methods other than fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases; and Branch 3 uses insecticides or structural repairs and corrections, excluding fumigation with poisonous or lethal gases.
The different licenses issued by the SPCB include applicator, field representative and operator. An applicator is someone in an entry level position who can&#8217;t be licensed in Branch 1. If you require a termite contractor to use fumigation techniques to eliminate a termite infestation, it&#8217;s important to ensure that whoever comes into your home is licensed as a field representative or operator.
In addition to the SPCB, other organizations may certify or license a company, including (but not limited to) the County Agricultural Commissioner, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Pesticide Regulation and the California Department of Public Health. Many termite control companies may hold membership in other organizations as well, including the National Pest Management Association and Pest Control Operators of California.
Most of the organizations that certify and license companies for termite control also maintain a database of complaints and the validity of licensing and certification, as does the Better Business Bureau. When considering a termite control company, remember, you have the right to ask questions. Asking for the particulars of a company&#8217;s certification and licensing is one step you can take to ensure you&#8217;re working with a reputable company.
&nbsp;
<h3>Next Steps</h3>
After you&#8217;ve done some basic research, it&#8217;s time to talk with a few local companies. When you interview them, make sure you have a written list of questions and note each company&#8217;s answers. Don&#8217;t settle for the first  company you interview. You have a right to explore your options, but keep in mind that the longer you wait, the more damage termites can do to your home or building.

Learn how to identify/prevent a termite infestation and find a quality termite control company in your local area.

Termites and Termite Control Companies: What You Need to Know

termites-termite-control-companies-what-you-need-know

<div class=article-entry><img alt= class=attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image height=720 loading=lazy sizes=(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px src=https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/2018/06/Proven-Termite-Solutions-vehicle-rgb.jpg srcset=https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/2018/06/Proven-Termite-Solutions-vehicle-rgb.jpg 960w, https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/2018/06/Proven-Termite-Solutions-vehicle-rgb-300x225.jpg 300w, https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/2018/06/Proven-Termite-Solutions-vehicle-rgb-768x576.jpg 768w width=960/><div class=featured-caption></div>You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a termite control company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified company. Each has been rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® in the most accurate rating process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified rating and certification process will help you find a top rated termite control company and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor, and usefulness: 1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.2) Statistical Reliability: A large, random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis, so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top rated status.3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above, you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified Resource eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/our-certification>rating and certification process</a>.</div>

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a termite control company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified company. Each has been rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® in the most accurate rating process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified rating and certification process will help you find a top rated termite control company and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor, and usefulness: 

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you&#8217;ll never be fooled by fake reviews.
2) Statistical Reliability: A large, random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis, so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top rated status.
3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above, you&#8217;ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.
4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.
Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.
More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified Resource eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the <a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/our-certification>rating and certification process</a>.

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a termite control company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified company. Each has been rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® in the most accurate rating process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified rating and certification process will help you find a top rated termite control company and is

Why Trust a Diamond Certified Termite Control Company?

why-trust-diamond-certified-termite-control-company

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When hiring a termite control company, it’s helpful to know some commonly used industry terms and their definitions.
dampwood termites Termites that prefer wood that has a high moisture content
drywood termites Usually found in dry, non-decayed wood, including live trees, buildings, utility poles, etc.
hardwood Wood from non-evergreen trees such as maple, oak and ash. Some termites prefer boring into hardwood.
Integrated Pest Management A planned pest control program that uses various methods (pesticides, structural alterations, regular inspection and monitoring, etc.) to control pests, including termites Also known as: IPM
new wood Standing or freshly felled trees and unseasoned lumber. Some termite species prefer new wood and seek out standing trees or those that have been recently cut.
old wood Seasoned or dried lumber. This type of wood may attract some types of termites, including drywood termites.
softwood Wood from evergreen trees such as pines, firs and spruces. Drywood termites often prefer this type of wood.
subterranean termites Colonies of termites that reside underground. They can cause damage to home foundations.
swarmers The winged forms of male and female termites that leave the colony in the spring or fall, usually in a large swarm Also known as: alates
swarming When the winged forms of male and female termites leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. Swarms are often the first sign of a termite infestation.
termite bait An attractant (usually an artificial or chemical substance) that is consumed like food. Most termite baits contain a toxin that termites ingest or take back to their nests, where large numbers of termites ingest the toxin.
termite shield A barrier (usually made of noncorrosive metal) that’s placed in or on a foundation wall or at some other point in a structure to prevent termites from entering
termiticide Pesticide used to protect a structure against subterranean termites. Termiticide is usually sprayed by a termite extermination company. However, some termiticides are available for purchase at hardware stores or garden centers.
trenching A method of preventing termites from entering a structure by digging a trench around the structure and treating the soil used to fill in the trench with a termiticide or other preventive product.
<a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>
Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-pest-control/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-francisco-pest-control/" target="_self">San Francisco Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-pest-control/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-pest-control/" target="_self">Sonoma County Pest Control Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/napa-pest-control/" target="_self">Napa County Pest Control Companies</a>
Related Articles <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Pest-Control/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Pest Control &amp; Termite Services</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local Companies</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

When hiring a termite control company, it&#8217;s helpful to know some commonly used industry terms and their definitions.
dampwood termites 
Termites that prefer wood that has a high moisture content
drywood termites 
Usually found in dry, non-decayed wood, including live trees, buildings, utility poles, etc.
hardwood 
Wood from non-evergreen trees such as maple, oak and ash. Some termites prefer boring into hardwood.
Integrated Pest Management 
A planned pest control program that uses various methods (pesticides, structural alterations, regular inspection and monitoring, etc.) to control pests, including termites
Also known as: IPM
new wood 
Standing or freshly felled trees and unseasoned lumber. Some termite species prefer new wood and seek out standing trees or those that have been recently cut.
old wood 
Seasoned or dried lumber. This type of wood may attract some types of termites, including drywood termites.
softwood 
Wood from evergreen trees such as pines, firs and spruces. Drywood termites often prefer this type of wood.
subterranean termites 
Colonies of termites that reside underground. They can cause damage to home foundations.
swarmers 
The winged forms of male and female termites that leave the colony in the spring or fall, usually in a large swarm
Also known as: alates
swarming 
When the winged forms of male and female termites leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. Swarms are often the first sign of a termite infestation.
termite bait 
An attractant (usually an artificial or chemical substance) that is consumed like food. Most termite baits contain a toxin that termites ingest or take back to their nests, where large numbers of termites ingest the toxin.
termite shield 
A barrier (usually made of noncorrosive metal) that&#8217;s placed in or on a foundation wall or at some other point in a structure to prevent termites from entering
termiticide 
Pesticide used to protect a structure against subterranean termites. Termiticide is usually sprayed by a termite extermination company. However, some termiticides are available for purchase at hardware stores or garden centers.
trenching 
A method of preventing termites from entering a structure by digging a trench around the structure and treating the soil used to fill in the trench with a termiticide or other termite preventative

When hiring a termite control company, it’s helpful to know some commonly used industry terms and their definitions.

Glossary of Termite Control Terms and Definitions

glossary-of-termite-control-terms-and-definitions

<img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/killroy-pest-control-work.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/>
Pest control is a year-round problem for Bay Area homeowners. Photo: Hydrex Pest Control of the North Bay, Inc. ©2021
The Bay Area’s moderate climate and abundant green space make pest control a year-round problem. At any given time, residents may find their homes overrun with insects such as termites and fleas or confronting trespassing animals like mice and rats. While many are eager to eliminate potentially harmful pests, there are also concerns about the effects of pesticides on people and pets. In this article, we’ll demystify the pest control industry by defining key terms used by professionals, providing tips for a pest-free home and answering frequently asked questions about eliminating pests.
<h2>Key Terms for Pest Control</h2>
Broad spectrum: Something that affects a wide range or large number of organisms. In pest control, the term “broad spectrum” usually refers to broad spectrum insecticides or pesticides that kill a wide variety of insects.
Crack and crevice treatment: The application of pesticides into cracks and crevices with no residual effects on outside surfaces.
Insect growth regulator (IGR): A type of pesticide used to disrupt the normal development of certain insects.
Integrated pest management (IPM): A way to eliminate pests by using multiple control methods.
Pesticide: Any substance intended for preventing, destroying or repelling insects, rodents, nematodes, fungi, weeds, or other life forms declared to be pests. Also, any substance intended for use as a plant regulator, defoliant or desiccant.
Pesticide resistance: The genetic qualities of a pest population that enable individuals to resist the effects of certain types of pesticides that are toxic to other members of that species.
Repellent: A pesticide used to keep certain pests away from a treated area by saturating the area with an odor that’s disagreeable to the pest.
Toxicity: The potential a pesticide has for causing harm.
<h2>Tips for a Pest-Free Home</h2>
<ol>
<li>Keep your house clean. Maintaining a clean house is the simplest way to avoid attracting pests. This is especially important in the kitchen, where sugar bowls and other food containers should be covered. Don’t forget to remove any food residue from counters, tables and floors at the end of the day.</li>
<li>Maintain your landscape. When a tree or shrub is touching your house, it acts as a bridge for insects and rodents to gain access, so be sure to keep exterior vegetation well-trimmed. Also, check around your property for leaky hose spigots or sprinklers, which attract pests and waste water.</li>
<li>Get regular professional inspections. While eliminating attractions will help keep pests at bay, their activity is often out of your control, like when wasps decide to build a nest under your home’s exterior eaves. A good way to consistently keep insect activity in check is to have a pest control specialist come out every couple of months and perform an inspection. Many pest control companies offer ongoing service agreements, so consider taking advantage of this if it’s available.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Pest Control FAQs</h2>
Q: Are pesticides always necessary to control pests? A: No. Many pests can be managed by using less toxic formulations such as baits, dusts and microencapsulate pesticides that present less risk of human exposure. Talk to your pest control company about which alternative methods will be effective at controlling the pests in and around your home.
Q: What frequency of service is best? A: It depends on your situation and the type of pest involved. Once your pest problems are eliminated, you may choose to retain periodic service, but that service should focus on inspection and spot treatment of pests (if and where they’re discovered) rather than routine pesticide application.
Q: Shouldn’t all the baseboards in my home be sprayed? A: No—it’s unnecessary and it needlessly exposes people and pets to pesticide. Pests may live behind or inside baseboards, but never on them. If pesticides are applied, they should be applied to the cracks, crevices and voids where pests spend most of their time.
Q: How much should my pest control service cost? A: The best way to determine that is to compare estimates from several companies. It can be unwise to hire a company that offers the lowest price because there are many other factors to consider, including licensing/certification and reputation. The more information you gather, the easier it will be to decide if the price is right.
Q: Are pesticides safe? What if I’m pregnant or I have small children? A: No chemical is absolutely safe. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registers all pesticides after determining that each presents tolerable risk when used according to label directions. Any use inconsistent with a pesticide’s label is a punishable violation of federal law. In general, it’s the misuse of pesticides that’s hazardous, although the EPA recognizes that risks associated with pesticide exposure may be greater for pregnant women, children and infants, and they take this into account when registering pesticides. If you have any concerns about pesticide use, have your physician review the labels of pesticides that will be used in your home.
Q: Why should I choose a Diamond Certified pest control company?  A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a pest control company with confidence by offering a list of top rated local companies that have passed the country’s most <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/ratings-process/" target="_self">in-depth rating process</a>. Only pest control companies rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the <a href="https://diamondcertified.org/performance-guarantee/" target="_self">Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee</a>, so you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified pest control company.
<a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a>
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Pest control should make your life easier. Here, find key terms, tips for a pest-free home, and FAQs about pest extermination and prevention.

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