Frequently Asked Questions

Pre-treatment involves applying termiticide to the soil before the foundation is poured, creating a chemical barrier that prevents termites from entering the structure. This protective treatment is applied at key construction stages including under the slab and around the foundation perimeter. At Platinum Pest Control, we coordinate with builders to ensure proper application timing for maximum effectiveness.

Steam treatment uses high-temperature vapor to kill bed bugs and their eggs on contact without chemicals, making it ideal for mattresses, furniture, and sensitive areas. Chemical treatments provide longer residual protection but require more preparation. At Platinum Pest Control, we use steam treatments as part of our comprehensive bed bug elimination protocol to ensure thorough eradication.

Yearly termite inspections are recommended in Georgia due to the warm, humid climate that supports active termite populations year-round. Annual inspections catch early warning signs before significant structural damage occurs. Regular monitoring is especially important in Chatsworth and surrounding North Georgia areas where subterranean termites thrive.

Rodents typically enter through gaps around pipes, utility lines, foundation cracks, damaged vents, and openings as small as a quarter inch. They also exploit worn door sweeps, damaged soffits, and unsealed crawl space vents. At Platinum Pest Control, our exclusion services identify and repair all access areas to prevent future infestations.

Yes, vapor barriers significantly reduce pest activity by eliminating the moisture that attracts insects, rodents, and other pests to crawl spaces. Encapsulation also prevents mold growth and improves indoor air quality by sealing off damp, contaminated air. The barrier creates an inhospitable environment for pests seeking water and harborage.

Mosquito treatments should begin in early spring, typically March or April in the Chatsworth area, before mosquito populations peak. Seasonal treatment programs continue through fall when temperatures drop and mosquito activity declines. Starting early prevents breeding cycles and keeps populations low throughout summer months.

Follow-up services include thorough inspections to confirm complete eradication, additional steam or spot treatments if any activity is detected, and monitoring of previously infested areas. Multiple follow-ups are often necessary because bed bug eggs can hatch after initial treatment. At Platinum Pest Control, we ensure complete elimination before closing a bed bug case.

Carpenter bees bore into wood to create nesting galleries, and over time, repeated tunneling can weaken structural beams, fascia boards, and wooden siding. While one season's damage is typically cosmetic, years of untreated activity in the same areas can compromise wood integrity. Early treatment prevents cumulative damage and secondary issues like woodpeckers drilling for bee larvae.

Cost depends on the number and size of entry points, repair materials needed, accessibility of areas requiring sealing, and the extent of existing damage. Homes with multiple foundation cracks, damaged vents, or complex roofline gaps require more labor and materials. Thorough exclusion provides long-term value by permanently preventing re-entry rather than repeated trapping.

Vapor barriers seal crawl spaces to prevent moisture-laden air, mold spores, and pest allergens from rising into living areas through floor gaps and HVAC systems. By controlling humidity below 60%, encapsulation eliminates conditions that support mold growth and musty odors. This creates a healthier breathing environment, especially important for families with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

Many homeowners skip annual inspections after initial treatment, allowing new infestations to develop undetected until significant damage occurs. Termites work silently inside walls and wood structures, so visible signs appear only after colonies are well-established. At Platinum Pest Control, we emphasize yearly monitoring as essential prevention, not optional maintenance.

Restaurants face unique challenges including constant food sources, frequent deliveries, high moisture areas, and strict health code requirements that demand proactive pest management. Commercial pest control includes scheduled inspections, sanitation recommendations, and discreet treatments that don't disrupt operations. Compliance documentation and rapid response to any pest activity protect both health ratings and customer reputation.