How Does Pest Control Work?

August 16, 2021

Forget everything you ever thought you knew about pest control and discover how modern pest control provides long-lasting, effective, and humane answers to the problem of unwanted pests.
Here we take a look at why chemical controls and/or traps have been largely replaced by Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plans, physical solutions, and non-chemical deterrents.

A Person Is Spraying A Window Sill With A Sprayer — Suncoast Termite & Pest In Nambour, QLD

Accurate Pest Identification

The first thing a pest control company will do when they arrive at your property is to accurately identify the pest you're concerned about. Accurate identification enables control treatment to be specifically tailored to your problem. This increases effectiveness and allows the right treatment to be administered.

An Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Plan

The purpose of pest control isn't just to rid the property of the immediate problem, it's also about ensuring that the risk of pests returning is minimal. This is where the IPM plays a vital role. An IPM is a plan for managing a pest infestation that's designed to minimize harm to the environment (and to the pests), at the same time as providing an effective, long-lasting solution.

What's Included in An IPM?

An IPM is based on a good knowledge of the pest's lifecycle, natural predators, and habits. Where possible, contemporary pest controllers try to avoid poisons. Not only are traditional poisons inhumane, but they also present a risk to building occupants and wildlife.
A typical IPM will identify a method of elimination, as well as preventative action as a follow-up.
For example, a termite infestation will tend to be treated by the use of a system such as Novithor. This is a resin that's applied around the masonry joints and exterior surfaces of your property. The resin sinks into the soil around the property, as well as into the masonry, and dries, creating an impenetrable barrier that not even a determined termite can cross.
This type of treatment provides an effective, permanent barrier that is also environmentally friendly and humane. It's also invisible once the resin has dried, ensuring the property looks as good as ever.

Prevention is At the Heart of Good Pest Control

No matter what type of pest is under consideration, pest control is focused on preventing repeat infestations. Prevention methods vary depending on the pest. Sometimes something as simple as keeping the building in a good state of repair, or ensuring foodstuffs are securely stored can be all that's needed for pests to go elsewhere.
In other cases, your pest controller will suggest physical barriers that can be installed on your property to keep out determined pests. As well as termite barriers, bird netting, and home repairs, pests may also be prevented by ultrasonic devices.

Ongoing Inspections and Maintenance

Once your pest infestation is eliminated, it's important to regularly inspect and maintain your property to ensure your preventative measures are working effectively.

If you need further answers and are ready to book an appointment with our skilled, experienced pest control team, call (07) 5441 5040 at Suncoast Termite & Pest.