People often ask us, “What’s the difference between an exterminator and pest control?” While it’s easy to focus on technical distinctions, there’s actually a much deeper difference. The term “exterminator” represents an outdated approach that’s been largely replaced by more sustainable methods. In the past, people would call an extermination company for an immediate, often harsh chemical response to pests like mice or ants. This involved invasive treatments that required leaving the house while dangerous chemicals were used to kill the pests.
While this approach might have worked temporarily, the pests would often return. That’s because extermination is a short-term solution. It kills what you see but doesn’t address the root cause. You may remember commercials showing technicians in hazmat suits sweeping up dead bugs—what we like to call “Safety Theater.” This visual reassurance, however, doesn’t always equate to long-lasting results.
What really works is modern pest control, which focuses on eliminating the reasons pests are attracted to your home in the first place. It’s less about blasting bugs with chemicals and more about maintaining a balanced environment that keeps them out. While exterminators still exist, pest control has evolved to be much more eco-friendly and effective over the long term.
Houston Pest Control: Evolving for the Better
In the world of Houston pest control, the term “exterminate” means to destroy or kill. However, that’s not always the best approach. Believe it or not, some of these pests—like bees and spiders—play an important role in our ecosystem. That’s why modern pest control methods aim to manage and prevent infestations rather than eradicating these creatures entirely.
We understand no one wants to share their home with ants, roaches, or other insects, but exterminating them is only a temporary fix. Instead, pest control aims to keep pests out of your home in the first place by addressing the root cause of the infestation. This includes everything from sealing entry points to using eco-friendly solutions that won’t harm your family or pets.
Yes, sometimes chemicals are necessary, but today’s pest control solutions are far less toxic. They’re odorless, safe for pets, and can be applied in targeted areas to minimize their impact. In many cases, we can resolve the issue without using any pesticides at all.
The Real Difference in Pest Control
The major shift in treating pest problems in Houston isn’t just about the products we use—it’s about the mindset. Instead of applying a band-aid solution, we aim for long-term prevention. Modern pest control experts like us focus on understanding the behavior of pests and addressing the factors that attract them to your home in the first place.
At Champions Pest Control, our technicians undergo extensive training in subjects like entomology, natural deterrents, and humane relocation methods. This allows us to offer minimally invasive treatments that not only protect your family but also benefit the environment. By understanding the specific pests we’re dealing with, we can tailor our approach to drive them away and keep them out for good.
Pest Control Is Year-Round, Especially in Houston
The key difference between pest control and extermination is that pest control services are both a preventative and eliminative concept. It’s not something you do just when there’s an infestation; it’s something that should be maintained year-round. Houston’s warm, humid climate is the perfect environment for insects to thrive, and with hurricane season upon us, so pest management in some ways, is a better term.
Speaking of hurricanes, let’s talk about how Hurricane Francine affects pest populations. Many people think a big storm will wipe out insects and rodents, but the opposite is often true. Storms can displace pests like mosquitoes, ants, and even rodents, driving them to seek shelter in your home.
Hurricane Francine’s Impact on Houston’s Pest Problems
Although Houston didn’t take a hit from Hurricane Francine, the heavy rains and winds still left their mark. After a storm, you might think that pests are washed away with the heavy rains, but that’s rarely the case. In fact, storms often lead to increased pest activity as insects and animals are displaced from their natural habitats.
For example, mosquitoes love standing water, and after a storm, there’s plenty of it. They breed in stagnant water, and it doesn’t take much for thousands of new mosquitoes to emerge. Fire ants are another common problem. When the ground becomes saturated, fire ants come to the surface, sometimes even floating along in clusters until they find dry land—often in your backyard or garage. These ants are aggressive, and their bites can be dangerous for people with allergies.
Beyond common pests, larger animals like raccoons, mice, and even bobcats can be displaced by a storm. These animals will look for shelter in attics, garages, and under houses, bringing fleas, lice, and ticks with them. Even after these animals return to their natural habitats, the parasites they left behind could still be a problem.
Protect Your Home Year-Round
Investing in year-round pest control in Houston will save you from constantly having to call an exterminator for recurring problems. Consistent prevention is the only way to keep your home and yard pest-free. Waiting until after a storm, like Hurricane Francine, isn’t ideal because pest control companies are often overwhelmed with calls, and the saturated ground can dilute any treatments.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Champions Pest Control today to prepare your home for the influx of pests that often follows a major storm. By acting now, you’ll be ready when the next storm hits, keeping your home protected from unwanted pests year-round.
