Signs of a Pest Infestation in Greensburg, PA

Pest infestations can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Not only do they pose a health risk, but they can also damage your Greensburg property and belongings. Unfortunately, insects and rodents can be challenging to detect, and an infestation can go unnoticed until it becomes severe. Therefore, it's essential to know the signs of a pest infestation to take prompt action before the problem escalates. With the climate in Pennsylvania, there are certain times of the year pests will find any way inside, so our state can be common for possible infestations. 

5 Signs of a Possible Pest Infestation

Here are some possible signs to look out for if you are experiencing pests in your Greensburg home: 

• Droppings
• Gnawed or Chewed Items 
• Grease or Rub Marks
• Strange Noises
• Foul Smell

Droppings: 

Pest droppings are one of the most common signs of an infestation. Different pests produce different types of droppings. For instance, mice produce small and oval-shaped droppings, while cockroaches leave behind small and black droppings. You may find droppings in areas where pests are active, such as in your kitchen, pantry, or attic. This is one of the most common ways to tell if you have an infestation. 

Gnawed or Chewed Items: 

Pests have a habit of chewing on things. Mice and rats, for example, have sharp teeth and will chew on electrical wires, furniture, and other household items. They may also chew through food packaging to access the contents. If you notice gnawed or chewed items in your home, it could be a sign of a rodent infestation. Other pests that can chew or gnaw items around your home include ants, silverfish, termites, earwigs, and cockroaches. 

Grease or Rub Marks: 

Pests tend to leave grease or rub marks on surfaces they frequent. For instance, cockroaches leave behind oily or dark marks on walls, floors, and cabinets. Mice and rats may also leave greasy marks along walls as they move around. Most of these marks can be seen around your kitchen or bathroom as that is where most of the moisture and heat buildup are, which then can lead to an easier sight of these marks. 

Strange Noises: 

Pests are usually active at night, so you may hear strange noises when you're trying to sleep. Mice and rats are notorious for making scratching or scurrying noises in walls, ceilings, and floors. You may also hear buzzing or rustling noises if you have a bee or wasp infestation. Another popular area where pests could be hiding is your attic. If you are hearing unusual noises, check for a possible infestation here as it can be an easy place homeowners forget about. 

Foul Smell: 

Some pests, such as rodents and cockroaches, emit a strong odor that can be unpleasant. You may notice a musky or musty smell in areas where pests are active. This smell may be more apparent in enclosed spaces like cupboards, cabinets, or attics. If your home is not properly insulated, it could lead to a mildew or mold issue which is another factor to attracting pests. 

Live or Dead Pests: 

Seeing live or dead pests in your home is a clear indication of an infestation. For instance, if you spot a mouse scurrying across your kitchen floor, it's a sign that there are more hiding somewhere. Similarly, finding dead ants, cockroaches, or other insects in your home could mean that there is an infestation. Lots of pests eat other pests, so if there are dead bugs in your home, this could attract different types of pests for a quick meal. 

Can I Get Rid of An Infestation Myself?

Dealing with an infestation can be tackled yourself, but the severity of it makes a difference. If you don’t have professional help, you can also make the infestation worse if you are not careful. Using DIY methods have some ability to help, but they are more of a short term solution than long term. Easy methods that can help calm down (but not eliminate) an infestation include: 

• Clean and declutter: Pests love dirty and cluttered areas, so keeping your home clean and decluttered is a crucial step in preventing infestations. Vacuum and sweep regularly, wipe down surfaces, and eliminate any sources of standing water.
• Use DIY remedies: For minor infestations, you can use DIY remedies such as essential oils, boric acid, or diatomaceous earth. These methods are often effective in repelling or killing pests. However, it's important to follow the instructions carefully and use the products safely.
• Seal entry points: Pests can enter your home through even the tiniest cracks and crevices. Seal any entry points you can find using caulk, weather stripping, or mesh screens.

Professional Pest Control in Greensburg, PA

Pests can be a nuisance and can cause severe damage to your property and health. Therefore, it's crucial to know the signs of a pest infestation so that you can take prompt action. If you suspect that you have a pest problem in your home, it's best to contact a pest control professional to help you identify the pest and the most effective treatment plan. D-Bug Pest Control has been exterminating pests for 80+ years and has the local expertise to not only do the job right, but ensure you are in good hands when working with us. We offer services for a plethora of pests that include ants, cockroaches, termites, bed bugs, rodents, and more, so don’t let these critters win any longer! Your Greensburg home will be in good hands after utilizing our services.