Ticks aren’t just a backyard nuisance; they’re carriers of dangerous diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If you’ve found them on your property or pets, chances are you’re wondering if calling in a professional tick exterminator is worth it.

The short answer? Yes. But let’s break down how the pros handle tick infestations, what the average cost in 2025 is, and whether or not you can ever truly get rid of ticks for good.

Can an Exterminator Really Get Rid of Ticks?

The most common question homeowners in St. Charles, MO and St. Louis, MO ask is simple: can an exterminator actually eliminate ticks?

The answer is yes. When you bring in a licensed tick exterminator, they use specialized treatments that go beyond any store-bought sprays. While DIY options may temporarily knock down the population, professional exterminators take an integrated approach that targets ticks at every stage of their life cycle. That means treatment doesn’t just kill adult ticks, but also disrupts eggs and larvae from maturing into new pests.

A professional tick control program usually includes:

• Thorough property inspection: identifying hot spots like tall grass, shady areas, wood piles, or spots where pets and wildlife travel.
• Targeted treatments: applying professional-grade tick control products to high-risk areas, customized to your yard and landscape.
• Ongoing prevention: creating a barrier that helps keep new ticks from moving in after treatment.

The difference between DIY and professional tick extermination comes down to consistency, precision, and effectiveness.

How Much Does Tick Extermination Cost in 2025?

Prices vary depending on the size of your property, the severity of the infestation, and whether you’re opting for a one-time treatment or seasonal maintenance. In 2025, homeowners can expect:

• One-time tick treatment: $150–$300 on average
• Seasonal tick control packages: $75–$125 per visit (with 3–6 visits per year, typically from spring through fall)
• Comprehensive pest control programs: $500+ annually, often covering ticks plus other pests like mosquitoes, ants, or spiders

While cost is a factor, it’s worth comparing to the potential health and veterinary bills ticks can cause. Investing in tick extermination is about protecting your family, pets, and overall peace of mind.

Ready to see what tick extermination would cost for your property? Get a FREE Quote today!

Is It Worth Spraying for Ticks?

This is another common concern for Missouri homeowners. Spraying isn’t just worth it; it’s one of the most effective ways to keep ticks under control, especially in high-risk areas.

According to the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services, ticks are active across much of Missouri from spring through late fall. That means prevention isn’t just a one-time task; it’s an ongoing battle.

Professional spraying helps:

• Reduce tick populations in your yard
• Protect kids and pets playing outdoors
• Lower your risks of tick-borne diseases

When combined with smart lawn care habits (keeping grass trimmed, removing leaf litter, and discouraging wildlife from entering your property), spraying creates a long-term reduction in tick activity.

Can You Actually Get Rid of Ticks Permanently?

Here’s the truth: no exterminator can promise permanent tick elimination. Ticks are resilient and reintroduced by wildlife like deer, rodents, and even neighborhood pets. However, you can maintain a tick-free yard with professional help and regular, proactive prevention.

According to GardenTech, ongoing tick control paired with landscaping adjustments (like keeping lawns short and removing brush piles) significantly reduces the chance of ticks coming back.

Think of tick extermination less like a one-and-done job, and more like ongoing home maintenance—similar to lawn care or HVAC tune-ups.

Seasonal Tick Prevention Tips for Missouri Homeowners

Exterminators do the heavy lifting, but there are steps you can take between visits to keep your property less inviting for ticks.

• Mow grass regularly and keep weeds under control.
• Remove brush and leaf litter where ticks like to hide.
• Stack wood neatly and away from outdoor play areas.
• Discourage deer and rodents with fencing or repellents.
• Create barriers by placing wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and lawns.

The Missouri Department of Conservation notes that ticks thrive in shaded, humid environments. Altering your landscape to minimize those conditions can help make your property less attractive to ticks.

Why Choose a Professional Tick Exterminator in St. Charles & St. Louis?

If you’re battling ticks on your property, working with a professional exterminator gives you confidence that the problem is handled safely and effectively. Beyond expertise and stronger treatments, exterminators provide peace of mind—something no store-bought spray can guarantee.

With more than 50 years serving families across St. Charles, MO and St. Louis, MO, Amco Ranger has built its reputation on protecting homes from ticks, termites, spiders, and other pests. Our team takes a tailored approach to every property, ensuring long-lasting results.

Take Back Your Yard This Season

Ticks don’t have to keep you or your pets indoors. With professional tick extermination and smart prevention, you can enjoy your yard with peace of mind.

Protect your home and family and learn more about our residential pest control services and start with a FREE quote today!

You’ve prepped the patio furniture, chilled the drinks, and fired up the grill—and then the wasps show up like they were on the guest list. If your outdoor space has turned into a wasp war zone, you’re not alone. Wasps are one of the most unwelcome summer crashers, especially around decks, patios, and gardens.

The good news? There are plenty of proven strategies to keep wasps away—without turning your backyard into a hazmat zone.

Below, we’re sharing the 7 best ways to deter wasps, deal with an existing wasp nest, and protect your outdoor space all season long.

1. Spot and Remove Nesting Sites Early

Wasps are planners. Once they’ve picked a prime location for their nest, they’re not leaving without a fight—unless you stop them before they get settled.

Check these high-risk areas around your home:

• Under deck railings or eaves
• Inside grills, birdhouses, and patio umbrellas
• In fence posts, play sets, or porch ceilings
• Behind shutters or outdoor light fixtures

If you see a small paper-like nest forming, remove it early, ideally in the evening when wasps are less active. Here’s what to know before attempting removal and how to spot which species you’re dealing with, according to Penn State Extension.

2. Use Scent-Based Wasp Deterrents

People often ask: “What smell do wasps hate?” Turns out, wasps are pretty picky.

Wasp-repelling scents:

• Peppermint oil: Soak cotton balls and place them near seating areas, eaves, or known nest spots.
• Clove, geranium, and lemongrass oil blend: A research-backed combo that’s even more effective when used together.
• White vinegar spray: Mix vinegar and water 1:1 and spray around high-traffic areas.

These natural wasp deterrents offer a safe, non-toxic way to create invisible barriers—especially helpful for families with kids and/or pets.

3. Eliminate Outdoor Food + Drink Temptations

Wasps love what you’re serving—especially meat, sugary drinks, and fruit. If you’re wondering how to keep wasps away from your patio, one of the easiest answers is: stop giving them a reason to show up.

Quick fixes:

• Cover drinks and food when entertaining outside
• Rinse soda cans and juice bottles before tossing them in outdoor bins
• Avoid placing sweet-smelling candles, lotions, or perfumes near outdoor seating areas
• Keep trash bins tightly sealed

Hosting a BBQ? Clean up any spills immediately—wasps can detect sugar from several feet away.

4. Set Up Decoy Nests to Signal “Territory Taken”

It may sound weird, but it works.

Wasps are territorial, and most species won’t build a nest within 200 feet of another one. That means if they think there’s already a nest nearby, they’ll move along.

What to try:

• Hang paper decor nests from hardware stores
• Make your own using brown paper bags stuffed with newspaper and tied off with twine
• Place them in shaded areas like eaves, trees, or fence lines

It’s a simple, affordable wasp deterrent that works before they commit to building.

5. Seal Off Entry Points and Hiding Spots

Wasps don’t just build nests out in the open—they love cozy, forgotten corners. Cracks, gaps, and unsealed crevices are like Airbnb listings for wasps.

Where to seal:

• Gaps between deck boards
• Cracks in siding or fascia
• Gaps around vents or soffits
• Loose boards or lattice panels

Use caulk, expanding foam, or weather-resistant sealant to close off easy entry points. The cleaner and tighter your space is, the harder it is for wasps to settle in.

6. Choose Wasp-Resistant Landscaping

Not all garden plants are created equal. Some naturally repel wasps—others roll out the welcome mat.

Great wasp-repelling plants:

• Mint
• Eucalyptus
• Citronella grass
• Wormwood
• Basil

These plants smell great to humans and add serious curb appeal to your outdoor space. Avoid planting fennel, yarrow, or Queen Anne’s lace near seating areas—they’re wasp magnets.

7. Call in Professional Help for Persistent Problems

Paper wasps and yellow jackets may build in hidden or hard-to-reach areas, and their behavior can vary by species. For a helpful overview of local wasp types, visit this Missouri Botanical Garden guide.

If you’ve already got an active wasp nest, or your prevention tactics aren’t cutting it, don’t wait for a sting to make the call.

At Amco Ranger, we specialize in:

• Locating and safely removing hidden or high-risk nests
• Using strategic, non-disruptive wasp deterrents
• Providing long-term, eco-friendly pest control solutions
• Customizing treatments for decks, patios, gardens, and more

Don’t defend wasps alone. If your situation has grown bigger than you can handle, our pros will evaluate your property, eliminate any active threats, and help you keep your outdoor areas clear for the season—so you can enjoy all summer long.

Learn more about our wasp control services ➡️

Request a FREE inspection to get started! ➡️

Don’t Let Wasps Crash Your Summer

…or any season, for that matter.

Whether you’re sipping sweet tea on the deck or chasing toddlers around the sprinkler, your yard should be a sting-free zone. With the right preventative strategies, natural wasp deterrents, and backup from a pro when needed, you can enjoy your space—without the buzzkill.

Are you ready to protect your home from wasps?

Let’s talk about wasp control today!

Carpenter bees may look like harmless bumblebees, but they can cause serious damage to wooden structures around your home like other wood destroying insects. Unlike honeybees, carpenter bees drill perfectly round holes into decks, siding, fascia boards, and fences—weakening the integrity of your property over time.

If you’re a Missouri homeowner wondering how to get rid of carpenter bees safely and effectively, you’re not alone. With the right approach, you can protect your home without harming pollinators.

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees: What You’re Up Against

Carpenter bees bore into soft, unpainted wood to build their nests. While they rarely sting, their tunneling activity can lead to costly repairs and attract woodpeckers—creating a double problem.

Here’s what makes carpenter bees a unique threat:

• They return year after year to the same nesting sites
• Males aggressively patrol the nest area (though they don’t sting)
• Females tunnel and lay eggs, weakening wood over time
• Woodpeckers may target bee tunnels, causing further damage

Fastest Ways to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees in Missouri

If you’re dealing with an active infestation, timing is critical—spring and early summer are peak seasons for carpenter bee activity.

1. Use a Carpenter Bee Spray Inside the Holes

Apply a targeted insecticide directly into the entrance holes during evening hours when bees are less active. This kills any adults and larvae inside.

Local Tip: In Missouri, carpenter bees are most active from April through June—schedule your treatment early for the best results.

2. Plug the Holes with Wood Putty

After treating the tunnels, fill them with wood putty or dowels to prevent re-entry. Then, sand and paint or stain the area—carpenter bees avoid painted or treated wood.

3. Hang Carpenter Bee Traps

Bee traps mimic tunnel entrances and lure bees into a container they can’t escape from. Place traps near high-activity zones like eaves and wooden railings.

4. Apply Citrus or Almond Oil Repellents

Carpenter bees hate the smell of citrus and almond oil. Spray these natural repellents around vulnerable wood to deter nesting.

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees Without Killing Them

Many homeowners prefer a humane approach, especially to protect beneficial pollinators. Here’s how to repel carpenter bees without causing harm:

• Spray a DIY citrus oil solution (boil citrus rinds in water, strain, and apply with a spray bottle)
• Install decoy nests—territorial bees avoid nesting near other colonies
• Use ultrasonic repellents—sound-based deterrents can be effective near patios and decks

Best Carpenter Bee Repellents for Missouri Homes

When it comes to preventing carpenter bee damage, proactive deterrents work best:

• Citrus or almond oil spray (natural, non-toxic, bee-friendly)
• Painted or sealed wood (raw wood is far more attractive to bees)
• Professional-grade insecticides (if used, should be applied with care)
• Strategic wood replacement—swap soft pine or cedar for hardwood or composite materials in high-risk areas

DIY Carpenter Bee Removal vs. Professional Treatment

While DIY methods can help reduce bee activity, they may not address the full scope of the infestation. Carpenter bees often return to the same nesting sites and expand tunnels over time. That’s where professional pest control comes in.

Amco Ranger offers carpenter bee removal services that include:

• Precise insecticide application to active nests
• Structural inspections to locate hidden damage
• Long-term deterrent treatments and maintenance plans

Why Missouri Homes Are Especially at Risk

Missouri’s climate and architecture provide ideal nesting conditions for carpenter bees. Homes with exposed wood siding, older decks, or untreated trim are especially vulnerable. Add in Missouri’s humid springs, and the environment is perfect for tunneling and nesting.

Protecting your home requires not just treatment—but prevention rooted in local experience.

Don’t let carpenter bees destroy your deck or siding. Contact Amco Ranger today for expert, eco-conscious carpenter bee control tailored to Missouri homes.

Dealing with pests in your home or business is more than just a hassle—it’s a necessity for health, safety, and peace of mind. Whether it’s mice, termites, or bed bugs, a professional exterminator can help eliminate infestations and prevent future ones.

But how much does an exterminator cost? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of pest, the severity of the infestation, and the service plan you choose. In this guide, we’ll break down industry pricing, what impacts exterminator costs, and how AMCO Ranger provides competitive, all-inclusive pest control solutions.

Average Cost of an Exterminator

Pest control pricing varies depending on location, service frequency, and the type of pests being treated. Below is a general industry pricing breakdown for common extermination services:

• General pest control (ants, roaches, spiders, etc.): $40–$100 per month
• Rodent control (mice, rats, voles, etc.): $50–$150 per month
• Termite treatments: $500–$3,000 (one-time or annual coverage)
• Bed bug extermination: $300–$5,000 (depending on infestation severity)
• Mosquito control: $50–$100 per month (seasonal)

These costs can fluctuate based on your home’s size, the type of treatments used, and whether emergency services are required.

AMCO Ranger’s Pest Control Plans

At AMCO Ranger, we offer affordable, comprehensive plans that cover a wide range of pests. Here’s how our pricing compares to industry averages:

Compared to other pest control providers, AMCO Ranger’s plans offer more pest coverage at a lower price, with no hidden fees and routine service visits to keep your home protected year-round.

Factors That Affect Exterminator Costs

1. Type of Pest

Not all pests require the same treatment. Some, like ants or spiders, can be managed with regular spray treatments, while others, like termites and bed bugs, need specialized solutions that drive up costs. Termite and bed bug treatments tend to be the most expensive, often requiring heat treatments, baiting systems, or fumigation.

2. Severity of Infestation

A minor infestation may only require a single treatment, while a severe problem could take multiple visits. Larger infestations often require follow-up treatments, leading to higher costs. That’s why AMCO Ranger’s bi-monthly service plans ensure that infestations don’t get out of control.

3. Treatment Method

Pest control treatments range from chemical sprays and bait stations to eco-friendly solutions and exclusion techniques. More advanced, eco-friendly treatments tend to cost more, but they offer long-term protection with minimal environmental impact.

For more insights on different pest control treatments, check out this guide from NPMA.

4. Frequency of Service

• One-time treatments for common pests typically cost $150–$400.
• Quarterly plans range from $300–$600 per year.
• Monthly or bi-monthly plans, like AMCO Ranger’s Ultimate, Silver, and Gold packages, provide consistent protection and better long-term savings.

5. Home Size and Location

Larger homes require more product and labor, increasing costs. Additionally, pest control prices vary by region—urban areas tend to have higher service costs than rural areas due to demand.

6. Emergency vs. Scheduled Services

Emergency pest control services often cost 1.5x–2x more than scheduled visits. For example, a same-day bed bug treatment could cost upwards of $1,000, whereas scheduling a routine service can be much more affordable.

For more on questions to ask before booking emergency pest control services, refer to the EPA’s guide on choosing a pest control company.

How AMCO Ranger’s Pricing Compares to the Industry

Many national pest control companies charge $75–$150 per month for general pest control, often covering fewer pests than AMCO Ranger’s Ultimate Plan at just $55/month. Additionally, other companies charge separate fees for rodents and termites, while AMCO Ranger includes them in our Silver and Gold Plans.

Why choose AMCO Ranger?
✅ More coverage for less cost
✅ No hidden fees or surprise charges
✅ Bi-monthly service for ongoing protection
✅ Guaranteed satisfaction

To learn more about our comprehensive pest control services, visit our website or schedule a free consultation.

What Our Customers Say

Our commitment to providing exceptional pest control services is best illustrated through the voices of our customers. We’re proud to maintain a 4.9-star rating on Google, reflecting our dedication to customer satisfaction.

“Amco Ranger has been servicing our home for over 20 years. They do a wonderful job keeping the insects and rodents under control. We are business owners and we also use their services at our company building. They are very professional and reliable. We highly recommend this company.” — Jalane Neff

Explore more of our Google Reviews to see what others are saying!

Conclusion

The cost of an exterminator depends on several factors, including pest type, infestation severity, treatment method, and service frequency. While pest control costs can add up, choosing the right plan can save you money in the long run.

AMCO Ranger offers affordable, all-inclusive pest control plans that protect your home from rodents, termites, mosquitoes, and even bed bugs. For a fraction of what other providers charge, you can get bi-monthly pest control with full-service protection.

Ready to Protect Your Home?

📞 Contact AMCO Ranger today for a free estimate and find the perfect pest control plan for your needs.

Mice infestations can wreak havoc on your home and peace of mind. From contaminated food to damaged wires and structural materials, these tiny invaders cause big problems. At AMCO Ranger, we specialize in professional mice removal and proactive prevention to keep your home rodent-free long-term.

How We Remove Mice

Our mice removal process combines advanced techniques and humane methods to eliminate your problem quickly and efficiently:

1. Inspection: We start with a detailed inspection to identify entry points, nesting areas, and the scope of the infestation.
2. Customized Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, we create a tailored plan using bait stations, traps, or exclusion methods that are safe for your household and pets.
3. Implementation: Our licensed technicians implement the plan while ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life.
4. Monitoring: We monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust if needed, ensuring complete elimination.

How to Prevent Mice from Returning

Once your home is mice-free, prevention is key. Here are the steps we take to stop rodents from re-entering your space:

1. Seal Entry Points: We identify and seal cracks, holes, and gaps in your home’s foundation, doors, and windows.
2. Sanitation Guidance: Our team advises on proper food storage and waste management to reduce attractants.
3. Regular Maintenance: Partner with us for ongoing pest control services to ensure a rodent-free environment year-round.

For further details on our pest control services, learn more about residential solutions or explore tips for this winter.

Why Choose AMCO Ranger?

With over 50 years of experience, AMCO Ranger is the trusted name for mice removal in your area. Our team uses eco-friendly solutions and advanced pest management techniques to deliver superior results. We’re dedicated to protecting your home and family, ensuring peace of mind every step of the way.

Additional Tips to Keep Mice Away

Here are a few extra steps you can take to make your home less appealing to mice:

• Eliminate Clutter: Mice love to hide in cluttered spaces, so keep your home tidy.
• Inspect Your Attic and Basement: These areas are common entry points.
• Consider Professional Help: Mice are experts at finding their way back in, so working with professionals like AMCO Ranger is the best way to ensure long-term success.

For more information, check out resources like the CDC’s Rodent Prevention Guide and the EPA’s Guide on Rodent Control.

Act Now to Protect Your Home

Don’t let mice take over your home. Contact AMCO Ranger today for expert mice removal services and prevention strategies. With our help, you can enjoy a rodent-free home for years to come.