Perimeter Pest Control: How Long Does it Last?
If you’re tired of dealing with ants in the kitchen, spiders in the basement, or earwigs finding their way inside every summer, perimeter pest control might be exactly what you need. It’s a simple, effective way to keep bugs where they belong—outside—without treating the inside of your home.
But how does it work? What kinds of pests does it actually prevent? And just how long does perimeter pest control last? Let’s walk through everything you need to know.
What Is Perimeter Pest Control?
Perimeter pest control is a method of keeping bugs out of your home by spraying around the outside of it—no need for interior treatments or indoor chemical exposure. We apply a liquid barrier 3 to 4 feet along the ground next to your home and 3 to 4 feet up the foundation walls. This creates a protective zone that repels and kills insects before they ever have a chance to get inside.
It’s a safe, highly effective way to reduce pest pressure around your home, especially during the summer when activity is at its peak.
What Kinds of Pests Does It Control?
The product we use contains bifenthrin, the same active ingredient found in popular products like Talstar. It’s odorless, non-staining, dries clear, and is safe around kids and pets once it’s dry (usually within 2–3 hours). Even better? It provides residual protection for up to 4 weeks.
Perimeter pest control is effective against more than 75 different insects, including:
We always refer to the label and apply responsibly to make sure we’re targeting the right pests while protecting your family and pets.
How Long Does It Last?
The residual effect of our perimeter pest control treatment lasts about 4 weeks. That’s why we recommend a 3-application program spaced 4–5 weeks apart, typically between June and August, when insect activity is at its highest here in Northern Michigan.
Each application keeps that invisible barrier strong, helping reduce the number of pests trying to move indoors as summer goes on. While you may see a few insects outside, the treatment works to repel and reduce them before they reach your walls, windows, or doorways.
Why Lawn Treatments Help, Too
We often recommend pairing perimeter pest control with a lawn spray targeting ants, fleas, and ticks. This expands the protective zone beyond just the immediate edge of your home and helps cut down on bugs that might otherwise wander close enough to find a way inside.
The two treatments work hand-in-hand:
- Perimeter spray protects your home’s foundation.
- Lawn spray reduces pest pressure in the yard itself—especially important if you have pets or kids who play in the grass.
We’re also always mindful of beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. That’s why we avoid spraying any plant material that’s currently blooming, and we’re careful to target only the areas that matter most.
Is It Safe for My Family and Pets?
Yes—when used as directed, perimeter pest control is safe for both people and pets. We do recommend waiting 2 to 3 hours after application, just to allow the product to fully dry. Once it’s dry, everyone can return to enjoying the outdoor space as usual.
Partnering with Green Team for Perimeter Pest Control
Perimeter pest control isn’t a one-and-done treatment. It’s most effective when applied consistently throughout the peak pest season. That’s why we offer our three-treatment program, spaced out every 4–5 weeks, to keep the barrier strong and your home protected all summer long.
Pairing perimeter sprays with a lawn insect treatment gives you the best shot at a bug-free backyard—and peace of mind that you’re covered from the lawn to the foundation.
If you’re ready to stop battling bugs at the door (or worse—in the house), we’d love to help. Our team can recommend the right combination of perimeter and lawn treatments for your property, all applied with care for your family and the environment.
Want to learn more or schedule a visit? Just reach out—we’re here to make your yard a safer, more enjoyable place to be.
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