DIY vs Professional Pest Exclusion in Edmonton: What Can You Expect

In Edmonton, city life is pretty close to nature. And that means a few run-ins with some critters. When pests decide to crash your home, do you roll up your sleeves for a DIY fix, or do you call in the pros?

The next time you find yourself eyeing a suspicious line of ants or listening to the eerie scratch of unseen critters in your walls, there is no need to second guess yourself. Check out our breakdown of DIY versus professional pest exclusion, and then decide how to best protect your home from these unwelcome invaders.

The DIY Route—The Good, the Bad, and the Bugly

When pests start poking around, the DIY approach might be your first line of defence. You’ll need a mix of keen observation, a bit of handiwork, and the right materials.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Before sealing and securing, you'll need a few things for pest-proofing. Essential supplies include:

• Caulk or silicone sealant for closing up cracks
• Weather stripping for doors and windows
• Sturdy door sweeps
• Some mesh for repairing screens
• A good flashlight for inspection rounds
• A caulking gun
• Some steel wool for plugging gaps around pipes

Steps for DIY Pest Exclusion

1. Inspect the Property: Start your pest defence with a detailed inspection. Look for cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, and openings around utility lines. You’re basically looking for any potential entry points for critters.
2. Identify Pest Species: Know your enemy! Different pests have different preferences and ways of sneaking into your home. For instance, mice need only a dime-sized (no kidding!) opening to invite themselves in. Talk about a tight fit!
3. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal up those vulnerabilities. This not only keeps pests out but can improve your home's energy efficiency, too.
4. Install Door Sweeps and Repair Screens: Door sweeps block the gap under doors, and repairing any tears in your screens will keep flying and crawling pests at bay. If you notice gaps around pipes for pests to get through, use steel wool to fill them in.
5. Secure Garbage Containers and Trim Vegetation: Keep your garbage bins tightly sealed and far from your home, and trim any bushes or trees that touch your house to remove natural bridges for pests.

What To Expect with DIY Pest Exclusion

Going the DIY route saves some cash and gives you a quick fix. However, it’s not without its downsides. Here’s where things get tricky (and maybe a bit bugly):

Knowledge Gap: Pest control isn’t just about getting rid of what you see. It’s about understanding the behaviour, biology, and habitats of the pests. Most DIY solutions don’t cover the science part. Also, without the insights that come with professional experience, you might find yourself stuck in Groundhog Day, repeating the same tasks as pests find new ways to infiltrate your yard.

Hidden Costs: Sure, a can of spray is cheaper than calling a professional. But what if you miss the queen ant or don’t spot the raccoon damage until it’s too late? Those costs can add up quickly.

Time-Consuming: Your time is valuable. Chasing pests around your home can become a full-time job. And let’s be honest, you’ve got better things to do.

The Professional Pest Exclusion Way

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Nothing. Just your phone; give us a call!

What To Expect with Professional Pest Exclusion

Now, let’s talk about the perks of going pro:

Expertise: Our team lives and breathes pest control. We know the ins and outs of every creepy-crawly out there. We’ve got the knowledge and experience to tackle the problem at its root, not just on the surface. We scrutinize every nook and cranny to identify all potential pest species and their entry points. This meticulous approach ensures that the exclusion strategy is not just a blanket solution but is custom-tailored to the specific challenges of your property.

Comprehensive Exclusion Services: We don’t just deal with the pests you see. We go deeper, inspecting every nook and cranny to ensure we address the source of the infestation. And we use the latest and safest methods available.

Identifying Sources of Entry: Professional services help catch potential entry points or pest activity early, maintaining the integrity of your home’s defences over time. You get bespoke plans based on the specific layout and pest pressures of your property. This personalized approach ensures that all potential vulnerabilities are addressed, from the foundation to the roof.

Strategic Placement of Traps and Baits: In some cases, simply blocking entry points isn’t enough. Professionals may use traps and bait strategically placed to manage pests already inside or to monitor activity to ensure that the barriers are holding up.

We Handle Hairy Situations: We’re equipped to handle complex infestations that DIY methods simply can’t manage. Whether it’s accessing hard-to-reach areas or dealing with large-scale infestations, we have the expertise and equipment to effectively resolve the problem.

Safe Solutions: Buzz Boss provides green solutions that are non-toxic to the environment and safe for both pets and children. These eco-friendly solutions keep pests at bay without the harsh chemicals traditionally used.

Expert Advice and Education: Alongside physical pest control measures, we provide expert advice on how to maintain a pest-free environment. This might include tips on proper food storage, waste management, and other preventative practices that you can continue long after the initial treatment.

Time-Saving: Leave the dirty work to us. Spend your weekends enjoying your home, not waging war against pests.

Peace of Mind: Imagine not having to worry about pests at all. That’s what we offer—a pest-free home and peace of mind. Plus, you get follow-up services to ensure your home stays that way.

Comparison: DIY vs Professional

Here’s a quick overview of your choices to help you make an informed decision.

Ditch the DIY Drama And Seal the Deal with Buzz Boss

Your battle with pests doesn't have to be a full-blown DIY drama. With Buzz Boss, you get more than just pest control; you get peace of mind.

Say goodbye to weekend projects that lead nowhere, and hello to professional pest exclusion that lasts. Ready to make your home the 'Fort Knox' of pest defence, where these nuisances definitely don't have the VIP pass? Request an estimate with us.

We're buzzing with excitement to serve homes across Western Canada, including Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Okanagan, and Kelowna.