Expand your pest control efforts with foam

Dr. Jim Fredericks, VP of technical and regulatory affairs, National Pest Management Association (NPMA)

Over the past 25 years, the pest management industry has transitioned the majority of its customers from indoor perimeter services — baseboard spraying — to exterior perimeter services. This was due in part to labeling changes imposed as part of human health risk mitigation efforts, as well as changes in customer behaviors. A rise in dual-income households means fewer customers are home to accept interior services, for example.

Recently, risk mitigation refocused on exterior pesticide applications in urban areas to protect against runoff to surface water. Consequently, pest management professionals (PMPs) are faced with the challenge of balancing control efficacy with reduced product use.

Despite the challenges faced by PMPs, customers continue to value perimeter services that protect against pests such as ants, spiders, crickets and overwintering pests. Integrated pest management (IPM) principles teach PMPs to identify pest entry points, then seal or treat these areas as part of an effective service.

Of course, not every gap can be sealed, so technicians perform liquid crack-and-crevice treatments around doors and windows, under siding, at utility entry points and behind brick veneer. Many of these crack, crevice and void applications can be enhanced by delivering the product using foam.

Many PMPs are already familiar with foam for termite and biological drain treatments and cleaning, but consider how this formulation can be leveraged for perimeter pest control, too. Foam is very predictable in its coverage, especially in hidden spaces like crevices and voids. It can completely fill spaces and reliably cover surfaces with the desired product.

Your supplier can provide a wide variety of foam options, including ready-to-use formulations or equipment to turn just about any liquid into a foam, which can help economize your product use and reduce callbacks at the same time.