Perimeter Defense
Creating a protective barrier around structures using liquid treatments, granules, or combinations to intercept pests before entry.
Detailed Overview
Perimeter defense creates a treated zone around buildings preventing pest entry. Apply liquid insecticide 1-3 feet up foundation wall and 1-3 feet out onto ground/mulch around entire perimeter. Add granular insecticide in 2-3 foot band for extended residual. Focus on areas with visible activity, entry points (doors, windows, penetrations), and vegetation contact points. Non-repellent products (fipronil, imidacloprid) work best - pests contact treatment unknowingly and transfer to others. Reapply quarterly for general pests, more frequently after heavy rain. Clear vegetation back from foundation before treatment for better coverage. Water in granules lightly to activate. Perimeter defense prevents 80% of occasional invaders (millipedes, sowbugs, crickets) and reduces ant and roach entry by 60-70%. Not effective alone for established indoor infestations - combine with indoor treatments. Key concept: intercept pests outside before they enter structure. Saves labor vs treating indoors. More effective than baseboard spray inside. Combined indoor/outdoor approach most effective.
When to Use
Standard preventative treatment for most general pest accounts. Apply in spring before pest season. Reapply quarterly. Increase frequency in high-pressure accounts or after rain.
Required Skill Level
Requires some training and experience in pest management
Benefits
- Prevents pest entry before they reach interior
- Provides broad-spectrum control of many pests
- More effective than indoor-only treatments
- Visible service demonstrating value to customer
- Reduces indoor pesticide use
- Cost-effective for large buildings
Limitations
- Rain and irrigation can degrade treatments
- Does not control existing indoor infestations
- Vegetation and mulch can interfere with coverage
- Requires quarterly reapplication
- Not effective for airborne pests or those in voids
Related Concepts
Other techniques that may be useful
Crack and Crevice Treatment
Pesticide application method that places insecticides directly into cracks, crevices, and voids where pests hide, minimizing exposure to people and pets.
HEPA Vacuuming
Non-chemical pest removal using High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum cleaners to physically remove pests, eggs, droppings, and allergens.
Steam Cleaning
Non-chemical pest control using high-temperature steam to kill pests, eggs, and larvae on contact.