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Wasp and Hornet Control: A Recent Job & Some Homeowner Tips

Category: Holiday

Published: August 01, 2026

By Peter, Owner, Power Pest Control

What I Walked Into

August brought me to an Etobicoke property where the homeowners had noticed wasps repeatedly flying beneath the edge of their backyard deck.

The activity was close to the patio table and a door the family used throughout the day. They could not clearly see a nest, but the repeated flight pattern suggested that the insects were entering a protected space beneath the deck.

The owners had avoided disturbing the area, which was the right decision. By the time I arrived, the flight path was consistent enough to help locate the active nesting area.

The Problem

The main concern was the nest’s location near a frequently used part of the yard.

Wasps may become defensive when people, pets or equipment approach an active nest. Activities such as moving furniture, mowing nearby or attempting to block the opening can disturb the colony.

The homeowners had considered sealing the visible gap. I explained that closing an active entrance before the activity is properly addressed could redirect the wasps toward another opening.

The nest location, accessibility and surrounding occupied areas all needed to be considered before service began.

The Process

I observed the flight pattern from a safe distance and inspected accessible areas around the deck, patio and exterior wall.

Once I identified the likely nesting location, I explained the recommended service and the precautions the homeowners should follow during and after treatment.

I addressed the qualifying activity area using a method appropriate for the nest location. I also advised the family to keep children and pets away from the area and avoid disturbing the entrance while activity declined.

Afterward, I reviewed other protected locations around the property where new nests could potentially appear.

The Outcome

The concentrated flight activity around the deck declined after service, allowing the homeowners to begin using the patio more comfortably again.

They also understood why observing the flight path was more useful than swatting individual wasps around the yard.

Most importantly, they avoided sealing or disturbing an active nest before the activity had been evaluated.

DIY Advice

If you notice repeated wasp or hornet activity, I recommend the following:

Observe the flight path from a safe distance.

Keep children and pets away from the suspected nest.

Avoid striking, spraying or disturbing the entrance.

Do not immediately seal an opening with active traffic.

Keep outdoor food, drinks and waste containers covered.

Check eaves, decks and sheds for early nest construction.

Seek urgent medical help if a sting causes breathing difficulty or a severe reaction.

Never position yourself directly beneath or in front of an active nest to inspect it.

"It's brighter than before!"

— Megan

Professional Insight

A few wasps visiting flowers or food does not always mean a nest is on the property. Repeated traffic entering and leaving the same opening is more likely to indicate nearby nesting activity.

Nest location matters. An exposed nest beneath an eave presents a different service situation from activity inside a wall, deck or inaccessible void.

Professional evaluation helps identify the insect, assess accessibility and determine whether the nest can be addressed safely.

Closing Thoughts

This August job showed why homeowners should pay attention to repeated flight patterns around doors, patios and other occupied areas.

The family did the right thing by stepping back and requesting help instead of disturbing the suspected nest.

If you notice concentrated wasp or hornet activity around your Etobicoke property, keep your distance and arrange an inspection before attempting to close the opening.