When you think of your home, you likely think of a place you feel safe to unwind. Yet, pests are unwelcome guests in the homes of millions of American households. These miniature intruders have the potential to wreak havoc in your home, exposing you to illness and stress.
By being better informed about some of the more common household pests, we can identify issues earlier and take action like the following. Remember, DIY methods may sound tempting, but most pest infestations require the assistance of professionals to remove and completely prevent problems down the road. And you can find these professionals by searching for the best pest control near me on the web.
7 Important Facts About Pests In The US Homes
1. Ants Are America’s Most Common Household Pest
Nationally, ants come in at number one among the most common reported pests, infesting 56% of households in the United States. These social insects invade your home via the tiniest cracks and crevices to look for food and water. If they discover a food source, they deposit pheromone trails that lead other ants to the site.
2. Cockroaches Affect Millions of American Homes
There are approximately 124 million occupied housing units in the United States, and about 14 million of them have seen roaches in their houses within the previous twelve months. Cockroaches are not only a nuisance but also pose serious health risks. They spread germs, contaminate food, and cause allergies and asthma.
3. Rodents Are Silent Home Invaders
Recent housing surveys indicate that approximately 14.8 million have seen rodents (mice or rats) in the home. Mice and rats are skilled climbers and can fit through holes the size of a dime. Rodents are significant sources of dangerous diseases, including Salmonella and hantavirus. They also create structural damage by eating through wires, insulation, and wood.
4. Termites Cause Billions in Damage Annually
Termites are considered one of the most destructive pests in America, with more than 600,000 homes in the country battling against infestations each year. These 24/7 silent destroyers consume cellulose present in timber, paper, and other organic matter. Unfortunately, termite coverage is not included in most homeowners’ insurance, adding critical importance to prevention and early detection.
5. Spiders Are Actually Beneficial but Misunderstood
In America, most household spiders are beneficial despite the fear many people have of them. In addition, they eat flies, mosquitoes, and other insects, controlling other pest populations. House spiders generally come inside to hide and search for food. They like places where it can be calm and they can lie undisturbed, such as attics, basements, and closets.
6. Bed Bugs Are Making a Comeback
Bed bugs are tough to get rid of because they hide in tiny crevices during the day and come out at night to feed. They can endure harsh, hot, and dry climates and withstand starvation for long hours. Even typical insecticides rarely work since these pests have developed so much resistance, which is why some professional treatment is required almost all of the time.
7. Seasonal Patterns Affect Pest Activity
Throughout the year, the amount of pest activity in American homes fluctuates widely. For most of the insects that fly, their peak activity comes during the summer months, and fall drives many of those pests into buildings, searching for warmth and shelter for the winter.
Complex pest problems often have causes that are not immediately identifiable to the homeowner. Companies such as Presto Pest Control are trained in finding these root causes and providing holistic treatment plans. They know how pests behave and will create a plan targeting the problem and the recurring problem, so you can rest assured that your home will continue to be pest-free for years to come.