Residents in Vancouver love the mild, wet climate here, but that also often means dealing with a wide range of pests. Insects, bugs, and rodents can infest your property when you expect the least; the concerns aren’t limited to hygiene. Discover more about common local pests in Vancouver and what you can do to protect your family and home.
Ants: Persistent Nuisance
You may find different species of ants here, which include house ants, moisture ants, and even carpenter ants. Carpenter ants are the most dangerous, as these insects can cause structural damage, especially if an infestation is ignored for a significantly long time. You may find trails or hollow-sounding wooden structures if these pests affect your home. The first step is to eliminate moisture inside the house, which otherwise offers a perfect habitat for ant colonies. Consider fixing leaks and plumbing issues immediately. Also, seal the entry points.
Rodents: Unwanted Winter Guests
From roof rats and house mice to Norway rats, all kinds of rodents are common in Vancouver. Not only are rodents responsible for spreading diseases, such as hantavirus and salmonella, but these pesky pests can also damage your home. Their teeth continue to grow, requiring them to chew all the time. Imagine having chewed wires that pose the risk of fire hazards. Signs of rodents include droppings, chewed and gnawed materials inside the house, nesting materials, and unusual sounds at night. Cleaning clutter and sealing entry points can help to a great extent, and you can ask the exterminator whether you can consider snap traps.
Spiders: Creepy Guests
Compared to many pests, especially rodents and ants, spiders are relatively harmless. You may encounter species like hobo spiders and house spiders, and although rare, black widows can be found in Vancouver homes. Many people, especially kids, are scared of spiders, and addressing an infestation is more than necessary. The obvious sign is the presence of websites. Make sure you take steps to control the presence of other insects that serve as food, and always clean your home to reduce clutter.
Cockroaches: The Ultimate Survivors
The German cockroach and American cockroach are two species of roaches found in homes here. Besides spreading bacteria and triggering health issues, such as asthma, cockroaches are also responsible for contaminating food. You will find them in moisture-prone areas of the house, such as the kitchen and bathrooms. Some signs of roaches include seeing them at night and egg casings. Roach infestations get worse in no time, and remember that just using a regular spray will not help. You have to cut down food and water sources and must deep clean your home.
Termites: Silent Homewreckers
When it comes to subterranean termites, you have to be cautious, considering these pests damage wooden structures, which can cost thousands of dollars in repairs. Most people don’t even realize they have a termite problem until the infestation reaches an extreme point. You may find signs like hollow-sounding wooden structures and mud tubes on walls. There is no other way to deal with subterranean termites than calling the experts.
Get professional exterminators in Vancouver
With numerous pest control companies working in the city, you can easily shortlist a few through online listings and references. Make sure to select one that’s licensed, local, and has insurance. Don’t shy away from discussing how they identify and deal with different types of pests. You may also want to discuss preventive measures, such as inspections and exclusion steps, which can help prevent infestations. The sooner you get a pest control company in Vancouver to check your home, the faster you can expect relief.