These days, more people are choosing to apply the principles of integrated pest management, a more holistic and healthy form of pest control that works with the environment, biology and natural life cycle of pests to help curb populations.
One of the most important aspects of this approach to pest management is known as exclusion. Pest exclusion is a preventative tactic that involves sealing up areas of your building where pests are likely to enter – essentially, denying pests access to your home or business in the first place. The following is a look at how pest control services apply pest exclusion tactics to prevent infestations from occurring.
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Exclusion is essentially the first line of defense against any pest invasion. The idea behind this integrated pest management tactic is that it’s much easier (and safer for the environment) to simply keep pests out than to root out an infestation once it takes hold.
Unfortunately, because insects and rodents are small and sneaky, many buildings have cracks, holes and other entry points that make ideal doorways for pests. 1st Choice Pest Control will do a thorough inspection of the building for vulnerable areas and fortify them wherever possible.
The key to pest exclusion is sealing and securing all possible points of entry into the building. Of course, some parts of the building must remain ventilated and open to some extent; the point is to make sure that there are no unnecessary open entry points. It’s also important to minimize possible traffic routes for insects and critters by keeping windows shut and screen meshes fastened and in good repair.
Other exclusion tactics recommended by integrated pest management experts involve keeping any organic matter away from the exterior of the building – including trash, compost, mulch and even fallen leaves – as these have a tendency to attract pests. Finally, removing inviting food, water, nesting and breeding sources from the inside of the building will help to create inhospitable conditions for pests.
Pest exclusion services focus on sealing entry points, modifying structures, and using physical barriers to prevent pests from entering your home or business. Here are the main types of exclusion services offered:
Pest exclusion is one of the smartest ways to protect your home or business from unwanted intruders. Here’s why:
Pest exclusion services focus on sealing entry points, modifying structures, and using physical barriers to prevent pests from entering your home or business. Here are the main types of exclusion services offered: 1. Structural Exclusion Structural exclusion involves identifying and sealing gaps, cracks, and openings in a building’s structure. Common services include: Sealing cracks in walls, foundations, and siding. Repairing holes in drywall or wood. Installing door sweeps to eliminate gaps beneath doors. Weatherproofing windows and doors. 2. Rodent Exclusion Specifically designed to keep rodents like rats and mice out, rodent exclusion may include: Sealing small gaps (as small as ¼ inch) around pipes, vents, and utility lines. Installing rodent-proof mesh or screens. Closing gaps around rooflines, soffits, and crawl spaces. 3. Insect Exclusion This service targets insects such as ants, cockroaches, and spiders by addressing small openings: Installing fine mesh screens on vents and windows. Sealing cracks in baseboards, countertops, and cabinetry. Treating and sealing gaps around electrical outlets and light fixtures. Blocking entry points near plumbing and HVAC systems. 5. Landscape Exclusion Pests often enter properties due to landscaping issues. This service includes: Trimming tree branches and shrubs away from structures. Creating a gravel or stone barrier around the foundation to deter crawling pests. Removing debris or standing water to reduce attractants. 6. Crawl Space and Attic Exclusion Crawl spaces and attics are common entry points for pests. Exclusion services include: Installing vapor barriers to prevent moisture buildup. Sealing entry points in crawl space vents and attic eaves. Insulating gaps and openings in these areas. 7. Vent and Duct Exclusion Vents and ducts can serve as entryways for pests. Exclusion for these areas includes: Installing vent covers or screens. Sealing gaps around ductwork and HVAC units. Preventing nesting inside exhaust vents or dryer vents 8. Commercial Exclusion Services For businesses, exclusion focuses on protecting large facilities: Installing pest-proof entryways for loading docks. Sealing utility and pipe penetrations. Using industrial-grade materials to block access in high-traffic areas. Add-On Solutions One-Way Exclusion Devices: These allow pests to exit but prevent them from returning. Foam and Sealant Applications: Used to block smaller gaps.
Metal Flashing: Reinforces weak areas prone to pest entry.
Pest exclusion typically covers all potential entry points, including doors, windows, vents, chimneys, foundations, attics, crawl spaces, and utility openings. Outdoor areas, like decks, patios, and landscaping features close to your home, may also be assessed for vulnerabilities.
Traditional pest control often focuses on eliminating existing infestations using traps, chemicals, or other reactive methods. Pest exclusion, on the other hand, is preventive, addressing the root causes of infestations by blocking pests’ access to your home or business.
Costs vary based on the size of the property, the extent of vulnerabilities, and the materials required. A typical residential pest exclusion service can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the job.
Pest exclusion significantly reduces the likelihood of infestations, but no method is 100% foolproof. Regular maintenance and monitoring are key to ensuring long-term effectiveness and keeping new vulnerabilities from developing.
1st Choice Pest Control is committed to providing you with quality service and delivering total pest protection. We specialize in the protection against common pests including bed bugs, rodents, insects, mosquitoes and ticks.
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