Best Pest Control in Alabama
After a long day at work, you want to be able to come home and relax. However, if you have a pest problem, that’s not going to happen. Alabama is home to a variety of pests that are not only a nuisance but could also cause health problems for your family or damage to your home.
While you could try to prevent or treat for pests yourself, it’s much easier and safer to find an exterminator to help you get rid of these unwanted pests. No matter where you live, there are many options, making it difficult to figure out who to hire. It can be nerve-wracking to invite strangers into your home and trust that they’ll be able to take care of your problem. It’s also scary to think about what kinds of chemicals are being used and if they’re safe for your pets or your children.
That’s why it’s essential to do some research to find a pest control company that you can trust. We always recommend getting quotes from a few different companies and finding out what kind of plans they offer. But, before you do that, there are a few things you should know.
Table of Contents
Most Common Pests in Alabama
Ants
Cockroaches
Fleas & Ticks
Mosquitoes
Rodents
Spiders
Termites
Average Cost of Pest Control in Alabama
Types of Pest Control Treatment
How to Find the Best Pest Control in Alabama
FAQs about Pest Control in Alabama
1. What should I expect from a pest control company?
2. What is included in a pest control plan?
3. How often should I have pest control treat my house?
4. How long does pest control last?
5. Can I do my own pest control?
Most Common Pests in Alabama
Alabama has a biodiverse set of pests that populate the state. Each type brings its own dangers and challenges. Let’s take a look at the most common pests you’re likely to find in or around your home.
Ants
Ants are everywhere, and there are many different types. They thrive in warmer weather, so you’ll notice them out and about in the spring and summer. Most ants are just annoying, especially when you find them crawling along your baseboards, kitchen countertops, or anywhere else in your house. Ants only bite in defense and usually don’t really hurt much. However, Alabama is home to fire ants, which have a more painful bite. Another common type of ant found in the state is the carpenter ant. These can damage your home, much like termites. Ants are usually covered in most base pest control plans.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are very resilient and can be found all over the United States. The most common types found in Alabama are the Smokey Brown cockroach, Oriental cockroach, German cockroach, and Asian cockroach. No matter which kind you have, cockroaches can spread germs and contaminate food. Plus, they’re just plain terrifying when you see them scurrying across your floor. Cockroaches are tough to eliminate, but they’re usually covered in the base plan for pest control.
Fleas & Ticks
Fleas and ticks are both common in Alabama, as they thrive in warm, humid climates. Both feed on blood from warm-blooded animals, though fleas are most commonly found on dogs and cats. Fleas are itchy and annoying, and they can be hard to get rid of. On the other hand, ticks will happily feast on humans and can spread some serious diseases, such as Lyme disease, through their saliva. Exterminators can help you to get rid of these pests.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are one of the most prevalent pests in Alabama because they love humid environments. While most people know that mosquito bites can be itchy and irritating, you may not know that they can also spread diseases. They can pass on viruses, such as the West Nile virus, which can be deadly. Mosquitoes breed near standing water, so try to reduce these areas by dumping out anything holding water, such as children’s toys, buckets, trash cans, etc. Most pest control companies do offer different treatments for mosquitoes.
Rodents
Rodents, such as rats and mice, are a year-round problem and live in places with higher populations. They mostly live outdoors but can find their way inside your home when it gets too hot or too cold for them. Rodents produce a lot of waste and can contaminate your food and countertops or any other surface. They also love to chew on things and can damage furniture, flooring, wallpaper, pipes, wires, and more. Make sure to ask if rodents are covered with whichever pest control company you choose, as not all will take care of them.
Spiders
Alabama is home to many species of spiders. While most are harmless, albeit the stuff of nightmares, there are a few types of poisonous spiders that call this state home. Brown recluses, brown widows, and black widows are all types that you need to watch out for. Call pest control immediately if you spot any and let them take care of it. Spiders are generally covered in the base plans.
Termites
Termites also love the warm weather that comes in Alabama’s springtime. These little creatures are incredibly destructive and can cause structural damage to your home, costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. Spotting and treating for them early, or even as a preventative measure, can save you a lot of money in the long run. Make sure to talk to the pest control company about your options, as termite treatment usually isn’t covered in basic plans.
Average Cost of Pest Control in Alabama
There are several factors that will affect the cost of pest control. The size of your home, type of pests, location, and more will be considered when getting a quote. How fast you need a treatment may also play into it.
Depending on the size of your property and these other factors, you can expect to pay an average of $119 for pest control, with an average range of $80-$170. Basic or repeat services will be lower, while extensive treatments for termites or bed bugs will cost a lot more.
Types of Pest Control Treatment
The two most common types of treatment that pest control companies use at private residences are liquid barrier systems and baiting systems.
Just as the name states, a liquid barrier system is where a chemical is sprayed around the outside of your home and on any entry points for insects. This chemical can kill on contact, but can also be spread through a colony or nest and slowly kill everything off.
A baiting system is where traps are placed around the house with bait that will attract pests. These traps are laced with chemicals that pests will take back to their homes. This will eliminate the nests or colonies over time. Both are safe and effective treatment systems.
How to Find the Best Pest Control in Alabama
The first thing you’ll need to do is figure out the types of pests you have in and around your home. If you’re just dealing with the most common insects, you may have a lot of options. However, if you have termites, you’ll want a company that specializes in them and knows exactly how to deal with them. If you have rodents, you’ll also have to find a company that can take care of them, since that’s usually not included in most pest control plans.
Since there are so many factors that play into how much you’ll pay for quality pest control, it’s best to get quotes from a few different companies. Make sure that you’re comparing the same type of plans to find the best price.
When choosing a pest control company in Alabama, look for one that’s licensed, insured, and bonded. Check the company’s reviews and see what customers are saying about them. You’ll also want to know the contract terms, what they guarantee, and if they offer any discounts.
In Alabama, the top three pest control companies that offer affordable plans are Orkin, Terminix, and Cook’s Pest Control. However, you may want to check some regional companies as well, such as Alabama Pest Control and Vulcan Termite Pest Control.
Here at Pest Brigade, we’ll do the work for you. We’ll show you different types of pest control strategies that you can try yourself or get you connected with local exterminators.
FAQs about Pest Control in Alabama
1. What should I expect from a pest control company?
When you hire an exterminator, you should expect an initial inspection. During this inspection, the exterminator will examine your home inside and out to look for potential pests and problem areas. Most of the time, this evaluation is considered a free consultation. Then, they’ll form a plan of action to address any pests they noticed and possible future problems. Depending on the plan you select, you’ll have the initial treatment and follow-up treatments throughout the year. You should also receive instructions on how to prevent and treat pests during the interim.
2. What is included in a pest control plan?
This will vary based on your needs and the plan that you choose. However, all companies should offer a basic plan that covers the most common insects found in your region for the year. This will include a certain number of visits, but typically they’ll come out at no additional charge if you have a problem between treatments.
3. How often should I have pest control treat my house?
Monthly treatments by a professional will help to eradicate any problems you may have and prevent any future infestations. While you could choose to have them come less often, pesticides don’t typically work against eggs, so you may end up with more pests if you’re not getting regular treatments. Plus, these plans usually cost less, as less treatment is necessary when it’s happening more often.
4. How long does pest control last?
There are many factors that play into how long the treatment will last. Weather and climate, the type of chemical used, and where it was applied all contribute to the lasting effectiveness. There is no definite answer, but talk to your pest control service and find out how often they recommend treatment to keep your home pest-free.
5. Can I do my own pest control?
Pest control can be dangerous and ineffective if you don’t know what you’re doing. A lack of knowledge about which chemicals to use can lead to health risks, such as respiratory issues while spraying and pesticide poisoning for you and your family. Plus, there’s a higher chance of reinfestation. Hire a company to take care of it for you will ensure that your home is protected from pests and safe for your family.
At Pest Brigade, we understand how important it is to find a good quality pest control company fast. To be sure you get the most effective and affordable plan, call Pest Brigade at (833) 431-0401 and get a quote today!
