Avoid These Common Wasp Control Mistakes

After digging around your covered porch, attic, or basement, you are sure you noticed a wasp nest beginning to form. Although you might think it is an easy job, it can actually be tricky to eliminate an entire wasp infestation from your home. It can also be potentially dangerous. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, approximately 62 people died from wasp, bee, or hornet stings between 2000-2017. If you have wasps on your property, here are a few mistakes you need to avoid.

Overlooking the Signs of a Wasp Infestation

In addition to actually seeing a wasp nest, there are other signs of a wasp infestation. For example, some varieties of wasps use wood to build their nests. The wasps will actually chew the wood, so you will often see minor damage to the wood beams and trees. However, be aware that this could also be a sign of termites or another type of infestation, so it is best to contact an exterminator to make a final assessment.

You may also see the wasps themselves. Watch where the wasps are going and often, this will lead you right to the nest. Don't assume that just because you only see a single wasp in your home that there is not a larger infestation inside the house.

Using Dangerous Chemicals to Eliminate the Infestation

There are several sprays, foams, and traps available at your local hardware store. Unfortunately, even though these chemicals are available and seemingly easy to use, homeowners often use the products incorrectly. The most dangerous consequence of misusing pesticides is that you can potentially become very sick. Additionally, if you spray pesticides in your home, you can actually damage or stain your walls and furniture.

Employing DIY Methods to Eliminate a Nest

Instead of using chemicals, some homeowners employ more DIY techniques to eliminate a wasp infestation. This can be anything from hitting a wasp nest with a baseball bat to pouring gasoline on the nest and setting it on fire. These and other homegrown techniques are typically ineffective and instead of eliminating the infestation, the homeowner simply winds up being stung several times by angry wasps.

Not Working with a Professional Exterminator  

Finally, if you want to eliminate a wasp infestation in the safest and most effective way, the best option is to call a professional. With the right tools and equipment for the job, an exterminator will quickly and safely get rid of the entire wasp infestation inside and outside your home.

From using over-the-counter chemicals to not recognizing all the signs of an infestation, there are several wasp control mistakes homeowners make. Contact a local pest and wasp control service in your area to learn more.