In pest management, how should voids in structures be treated?

In pest management, treating voids in structures with chemical applications is effective because these areas often serve as hiding spots for pests that may not be easily accessible for inspections or physical removal. Chemical applications, such as insecticides, can penetrate these hidden voids to target pests directly, providing a thorough approach to control.

Chemical treatment can also be designed to persist in the environment, ensuring ongoing efficacy against any pest that may come into contact with the treated surfaces later. Using these applications in conjunction with other methods, like monitoring and exclusion, enhances the overall effectiveness of the pest management strategy.

When considering the other methods, while physical barriers can prevent pest entry, they typically do not eliminate existing infestations within voids. Biological controls focus on using natural predators or competitors, which is less straightforward in sealed environments like voids. Traps can be useful but are limited in scope and effectiveness in hidden areas where pests are not actively foraging or where their presence isn't readily detected. Hence, chemical applications are the most robust option for addressing pest issues within voids.