Unwanted pests may transform a property from a haven to a cause of worry for homeowners. When a pest invasion occurs, prompt and efficient intervention is required, whether the invaders be cockroaches, termites, scuttling rats, or the unnerving sight of spiders. Although there are many do-it-yourself options available, professional exterminators’ knowledge and experience are frequently invaluable. In this blog post, we cover the most prevalent home pests in Toronto and why hiring a professional exterminator may help you keep your home free of these unsightly intruders.

Bed Bugs

Toronto has been ranked as the worst city for bed bugs in Canada for the last three years. The city’s high population density, increased travel, and limited public awareness contribute to the prevalence of bed bugs.

Bedbugs are able to easily travel from one environment to another by latching onto suitcases, clothing, furniture etc. In Toronto, there have been instances of bed bugs being spotted on public transportation, which raises concerns about their spread to various public spaces.

Additionally, multifamily housing, like high-rise apartments and condominiums, are particularly susceptible, as bed bugs can move between units through shared walls and plumbing. Our team has noted a significant increase in call-outs across the city, especially from residential apartments.

It’s difficult to identify and eradicate bedbugs as they are nocturnal, meaning hide during the day, and come out to feed at night. A lot of times people don’t even know they have bedbugs until they start seeing their bites all over their body.

The best practice to avoid bedbugs is to inspect your surroundings when in public places like public transportation. When travelling is to inspect accommodations for signs of bed bugs, use protective luggage encasements, and wash and dry travel clothes on high heat.

Ants

Ants are a common issue for residence in Toronto, especially during the summer months. They not only invade living spaces but also contaminate food and can also cause significant damage to property. The most common ant species in Toronto include pavement ants, carpenter ants, and odorous house ants. The degree of risk exhibited by various ant species varies; some directly attack our health, while others affect property and well-being. Identifying the specific type of ant is important as different species may require different treatment methods.

Managing ants becomes especially difficult when they establish colonies on-premises and create large infestations. Some ant species can live within buildings, which makes removal more difficult. These ants prefer hiding in dark places and hidden cracks, so it will take skilled workers with the correct equipment and knowledge to get them to leave your house.

The number one tip for keeping ants out of your home is cleanliness. Ants are primarily attracted to food sources to keep your kitchen and dining area clean. Make sure you clean up any spills or pick up any crumbs immediately.

Cockroaches

In Toronto, cockroaches are a prevalent pest. Like ants, they have been residing in our homes for a long time. They are not only a health risk due to the diseases they carry, but they are also known for triggering asthma attacks, and allergies. They are especially hard to get rid of due to their resilience and their rapid reproduction. It’s important to identify their presence early on before they reproduce. The most common sing of cockroaches are their eggs which are found in small clusters, droppings that look like grounded coffee, and skin casings. Also look out for cockroach nests.

Similar to ants, maintaining cleanliness is crucial for preventing cockroach infestations. Make sure you are wiping down counters, picking up crumbs, and regularly taking out the trash. Also keep in mind that cockroaches thrive in humid environments so make sure to fix any leaky faucets and eliminate as much moisture as possible from your kitchen and bathroom.

Wasps

Wasps have been a huge problem for Toronto residents, especially in the late summer and fall months. Although wasps are a crucial part of our ecosystem, they can be quite dangerous. Their stings can cause various reactions, ranging from minor swelling and itching to severe allergic reactions.

The best way to prevent wasps infestations are sealing off any spaces where they are likely to build their nest like underneath porches and decks. Wasps are attracted sweet foods and drinks, garbage, and decomposing meats which is why its important to properly dispose of all garbage. If you having a BBQ in the backyard or enjoying some ice-cream, make sure you clean up thoroughly after.

If you see a wasp nest on your property, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Wasp nests should be handled by professional pest control services. These experts can safely remove the nests and also provide advice on preventing future infestations.

AR Pest Control provides top residential pest control services in Toronto, safeguarding your outside areas and guaranteeing your family’s safety.

Mice

Mice infestations are a nightmare for homeowners as they are active year round and can invade your home at any time. They are more likely to squeeze their way into your home during Toronto’s colder months to seek shelter and food. Once they have made their way in, they gnaw through furniture and plastics, leave droppings and a musky odour. They are also know to spread over 35 diseases, making their control crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment.

Prevent mise investation by sealing any entry points into your house such as small openings around windows and doors. Also, don’t leave your doors open for long periods of time or without supervision.

The most effective way to eradicate mice is with the use of traps and rodencities. However, due to the high toxicity and potential dangers associated with rodenticides, it’s crucial to engage a professional pest control service like AR Pest Control. These experts can ensure that these substances are used safely and with the necessary precautions.

Partner with AR Pest Control

As a homeowner in Toronto, it is important to partner with a reputable pest control company in order to keep your property and your family safe. Our expertise and commitment to maintaining pest-free environments are invaluable in preserving the comfort and safety of your home. We not only offer effective solutions to immediate pest problems but also provides long-term strategies to prevent future infestations. Remember, effective pest management is an ongoing process, and with AR Pest Control, you have a dedicated partner in this journey.