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Spraying for ticks does a good job of eliminating the existing ticks in your yard. Moderate to severe infestations might require several treatment sessions, but most infestations are well controlled with enough treatments, regardless of their severity.

However, wildlife, pets, and people can still carry ticks into a yard, even after treatment, so if you're concerned about ticks in your area, it's a good idea to spray annually for tick prevention.

Rats are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night, typically from late evening through the early morning. They use the cover of darkness to explore, forage for food, and find water, as they feel safer and can avoid daytime predators and human activity. Their sharp senses, including keen night vision and hearing, are well-suited for navigating in the dark. Because they prefer to stay hidden during the day in secluded areas like walls or attics, you are more likely to spot signs of their presence—such as droppings or gnaw marks—before you see an actual rat.

While pressure-treated wood offers extra protection against decay and insects, it’s not entirely immune to termites. These pests can still snack on treated wood, so if you spot them, be ready for termite treatment costs that range anywhere from $73 to $1,730. However, your final price ultimately depends on how bad the infestation is and the treatment method. To keep your deck and home safe, regular inspections and preventative measures — like sealing gaps around the home and installing screens on doors and windows — are essential to protect your home, saving you from costly repairs in the future.

The most effective natural roach repellent is Borax with its key ingredient of boric acid and diatomaceous earth. But some homeowners may not feel like these are “natural” enough, especially since you can’t use Borax around curious pets or toddlers.

On the other hand, studies have shown that oregano oil mixtures have some of the best repellent effects, and other research indicates that catnip oil, peppermint oil, and citrus oils have notable effects on keeping roaches away. Rosemary oil has been shown to be the most effective natural oil for killing cockroaches outright.