Integrative Pest Management

Mar 21, 2011 | Going Green, Pest Control

By: Jerry Hatch
[email protected]

Today, as in the past, clients want to know they are getting their money’s worth. Customer expectations continue to rise and tolerance for irritants, in this case a pest, or the illusion of their presence, may drive them away for good. We all know that when a person feels “wronged” that becomes the topic of conversation for quite awhile. Our task is to prevent that discussion, and along with pressure from various consumer groups and regulatory agencies, this means having to direct our attention to solving the problem in one of two ways; first finding that magic product to reduce the problem, or spending the time and through a process of data collection and using a variety of items reducing the likelihood of pests.

Pests have remarkable adaptive qualities, able to alter behavior and chemically reduce toxicity of products, or to completely adapt to different environments for survival. Continuing to rely on the newest and latest chemistry may gain an advantage for a short time, but the pest’s very existence is dependent on their ability to change. They perform this adaptation easily.

The better method is longer lasting and a more integrative approach to pest reduction and elimination, one that may require some time, but pays off in huge dividends as clients needs and concerns change and their tolerance for pests decreases even more. That way is the Integrative Pest Management way or in many cases NorPest Green by Northwest Exterminating.  If you follow the prescribed steps of data collection, with a thorough understanding of the pests and their needs, together with the customers culture and location, you can effectively prescribe a proper course of action. This can be done with a very low impact product and with a reduced risk to the environment. 

So there you have it, the overview of IPM and a challenge to provide the customer with a healthy environment for their homes and businesses with honesty and integrity.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Mar 18, 2011 | Blog

With all the snow that Mother Nature brought the Atlanta area this winter I think it’s safe to say that we’re all ready for spring.  Well, lucky for us, spring begins on Sunday!  For some, spring is like a new start.  Spring cleaning is a way to get your home clean and in order for the fun seasons of spring and summer to come. 

Here is a checklist for spring cleaning your home:

  • Wipe down walls and base boards
  • Dust any cobwebs out of corners and hard to reach places that you may have missed in your regular cleaning routine
  • Reseal grout in walls, floors, countertops, bathtubs or showers
  • Vacuum and shampoo rugs
  • Dust shelves and anything on them
  • Clean upholstered items including underneath cushions
  • Polish metal hardware
  • Clean windows
  • Schedule any maintenance that needs to be done on your home such as lawn care, plumbing, or pest control
  • Wax wooden furniture
  • Change batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Check fire extinguishers
  • Wash window screens
  • Wash window treatments
  • Mop or wax floors
  • Clean out refrigerator.  Not only throw out any outdated food but wipe down shelving as well
  • Rotate or turn mattresses
  • Wash pillows and sheets
  • Discard any expired products including food items, cleaning products, cosmetics and beauty products
  • Update first aid kit
  • Pack up winter clothing and bring out spring/summer wear
  • Donate any apparel that you will no longer wear
  • Donate any old toys or books that are no longer used
  • Wash off decks, patios, driveways, and sidewalks
  • Wash outdoor furniture
  • Change light bulbs or update to more earth-friendly lighting
  • Organize garage and/or basement
  • Call city sanitation to remove any old paint, pesticides or other chemicals

And last but not least:

  • When it’s all said and done…relax and enjoy all of your hard work in the wonderful spring weather

Why choose a professional over DIY?

Mar 14, 2011 | Company News

It’s a fact that every home needs pest control.  For the health of your home and the people and pets inside, it is important to keep your home free of pests, critters, insects, etc.  Many people are faced with the question of if they should hire a pest control professional or just do it themselves?

We’ve come up with some helpful reasons that we think choosing a pest control professional is the right choice for you.

  • Although there are natural DIY products, many store bought pest control products still contain chemicals.  Working with chemicals can be hazardous and directions should be followed at all times.
  • Sometimes it’s nice to have someone else clean up every now and then.  Leave the dead pests and debris to the professionals to clean up.
  • If treating the entire home, it can be cheaper to call a professional rather than spend money on gallon after gallon of product.
  • Professionals are equipped with high powered sprayers that can be used to treat areas more effectively and quickly.
  • Pest control professionals are knowledgeable.  They can spot the source of the problem and assist the homeowner with prevention tips that can prevent future problems.
  • It is less likely to have a case of over application.  Too much product could be more damaging than helpful.
  • If the problem persists…they will come back!  Northwest Exterminating offers FREE callback services in a case where the problem persists.

Here are a few things to consider when hiring a pest control professional:

  • Does the pest company offer experienced and knowledgeable professionals?
  • Is the company bonded, insured, and licensed?
  • Does the company offer estimates or quotes?
  • Do they offer any warranties or money back guarantees?
  • What type of pests can they deal with?

Call Northwest Exterminating for your FREE inspection 888.466.7849

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