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FAQ: Wildlife and Rodent Exclusion
1. What is wildlife and rodent exclusion? Wildlife exclusion, also called rodent exclusion, is the practice of sealing a building in such a way as to prevent rodents and other animals from entering. This is done by closing all potential entry points into the building, including cracks and crevices, openings around pipes and wires, and gaps beneath doors. Exclusion can be an effective way to reduce the number of rodents in a home or business, and it is an important part of any rodent control program. 2. What are the benefits of wildlife and rodent exclusion? When you think of your home, what comes to mind? Safety, security, and comfort are likely at the top of the list. Unfortunately, pests can compromise all of those things. Pests like rodents and wildlife can cause structural damage to your home, spread disease, contaminate food, and more. That’s why it’s important to exclude them from your home in the first place. Here are just a few of the benefits of wildlife and rodent exclusion: Rodents and other pests can cause significant damage to your home if they’re allowed inside. They can gnaw through wiring, insulation, framing, and more – which can lead to fires or electrical problems. Rodents also contaminate food with their droppings and urine, which can make you sick. Wildlife can damage roofs and siding as they try to get into your home, not to mention that they often leave behind messy nests. Exclusion is one of the best ways to prevent these issues from happening in the first place. By installing barriers around your home – like metal flashing or sheeting on roofs and Vinyl mesh screens on vents – you can keep pests out without using harsh chemicals or traps that could harm animals in the process. Exclusion is a safe, humane way to protect both your family and your furry friends. 3. How do we exclude rodents and wildlife from my home? Mice and other rodents can be a real nuisance in your home, invading your food sources, damaging property and even spreading diseases. While exclusion is the best way to prevent these pests from entering your home in the first place, it’s not always easy to do on your own. Let a professional pest control company help you exclude these pests and keep them out of your home for good. First we identify the potential openings for rats, mice, squirrels and raccoons. These could be areas on the roof line, A/C lines, and even weep holes that can allow animals to take up residency. Once openings are identified, we will then inspect the attic areas, and garages, to identify what particular animal that we are dealing with, because this will determine the exact form of trapping. Both exclusion and trap installation will occur on the same day. Larger animals such as raccoons and squirrels will be allowed to exit the structure with excluders doors, for smaller rodents, traps will be used and return visits scheduled. Must Read: ASIAN COCKROACHES – WHAT HOMEOWNERS NEED TO KNOW 4. What are some of the best products for exclusion? Exclusion best practices include completely sealing the structure, all entry points are sealed with a combination of high quality products that are rodent and wildlife proof. 5. How do I know if I have a wildlife or rodent problem? Sometimes you might not even know there is an issue, our pest control team is highly trained to inspect and identify any potential issues that may occur. Sometimes you hear scratching or activity in the walls and ceiling. Sounds, smells, and rodent droppings would be the most common indicators of a rodent problem. 6. Do You Have to Do Exclusion Every Year? No, exclusion is usually only done one time if done well. New roofs, or damaged siding, and soffits can lead to new openings that can allow rodents and wildlife inside the home at other times. Looking for a pest control company that is different from the rest? Look no further than FullScope Pest Control. Our professionals are dedicated to providing you with the best possible service. Contact us today to speak with a professional about your pest control needs.
Asian Cockroaches – What Homeowners Need to Know
If you’ve ever seen an Asian cockroach, you know how horrifying they can be. These creatures are large, aggressive, and seemingly impossible to get rid of. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Asian cockroaches, including how to identify them, how to get rid of them, and how to prevent them from coming back. What are Asian Cockroaches? Asian cockroaches are a type of cockroach that is native to Southeast Asia. They were first introduced to the United States in the 1980s, likely through shipments of goods from Asia. These cockroaches are very similar in appearance to German cockroaches, although they are slightly larger and have darker brown markings on their wings. Asian cockroaches are also proficient flyers, which makes them particularly difficult to control. Recommended Read: It’s Fall Ya’ll What That Means for Pest Control Where do Asian Cockroaches Come From? These cockroaches are attracted to light and often enter homes in search of food. Asian cockroaches are especially fond of sweets and decaying organic matter. Primarily found outdoors in areas with mulch, compost, landscaping areas and shaded spaces with excessive leaf litter. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of Asian cockroach infestations in the southern United States. Consequently, it is important to be aware of the risk these insects pose and take steps to prevent them from entering your home. What do Asian Cockroaches Eat? Asian cockroaches typically eat plant matter, but they have also been known to eat other insects. In addition, Asian cockroaches can be a nuisance because they often invade homes in search of food. They have been noted to eat pet food, flowers, so basically they will eat almost anything. What do Asian Cockroaches Look Like? They are tan to dark brown in color and have dark stripes behind their head, they will grow up to about ⅝ inch long. How to Get Rid of Them If you have Asian cockroaches in your home, it’s important to take action immediately. The first step is to eliminate their food sources by cleaning up any spills or crumbs left out on countertops or floors. You should also seal up any cracks or crevices where these cockroaches might be able to enter your home. Once you’ve done this, you can use a variety of methods to kill the cockroaches that are already inside, including baits, traps, and aerosentry-grade insecticides. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using any of these products. How to Prevent Them from Coming Back The best way to prevent Asian cockroaches from coming back is to maintain a clean and clutter-free home. In addition, it’s important to regularly inspect your home for cracks and crevices where these pests might be able to enter. Be sure to seal up any openings that you find with caulk or another type of sealant. If you have questions or concerns about preventing Asian cockroaches from returning, don’t hesitate to contact a pest control professional. These guys are are the perfect reason why quarterly pest control service and staying on a schedule is important, right now we in Houston areas are dealing with a severe invasion of the Asian cockroach, perfect temperatures and moisture has led to a population boom. Keeping up on you maintenance every 3 months insure that these annoying invaders do not take hold of your yard and start moving inside. Recommended Read: PEST PROOFING YOUR HOME: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE Conclusion: Asian cockroaches are a serious pest problem here in the south. These creatures are very efficient at reproduction, aggressive invaders, and difficult to control with DIY pest control. If you have Asian cockroaches in your home, it’s important to take action immediately. Start by eliminating their food sources and sealing up any cracks or crevices where they might be able to enter your home. If you have questions or concerns about preventing Asian cockroaches from returning, don’t hesitate to contact a pest control professional for assistance.
The Top 10 Termite Mistakes What homeowners do to invite termites
Termites. They’re hungry. And to them, your house is food. Is there anything you can do to stop them? Can you make your home less appetizing? More than 100 termite experts ─ with a combined 2,000 years of experience ─ say these are the top 10 mistakes homeowners make when it comes to termites: 10. Repairing utilities on the property disrupting the termite soil treatment. If your lawn gets dug up for plumbing, gas or electrical work, chances are good you’ve compromised your termite treatment if your home has been treated with a liquid termiticide. 09. Piling excessive mulch around the home Termites love mulch. Too much up against your home holds soil moisture and can be an easy food source for hungry termites. “The mulch typically used around homes is often a soft wood like pine, which is a great food source for termites,” says Camille Landry of FullScope Pest Control. “I’ve seen termites foraging in and around the mulch just 1 inch deep. If the mulch is piled very high up on the foundation of a structure, it makes a natural bridge the termites can use to enter the structure.” 08. Digging around the home’s foundation disrupting a termite treatment. Liquid termite treatments around your foundation are effective only if left undisturbed. So if you dig around your house to plant a new rosebush, you might have opened a hole for termites to crawl through. If your home is protected by a baiting product such as the Sentricon® System, digging around your foundation isn’t a concern as long as the stations stay in place. Must Read: BROWN RECLUSE SPIDERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 07. Leaving old tree stumps in the yard Dead trees are desirable to termites ─ almost as desirable as your house. Stumps in your yard can serve as a launch pad for an attack on your home. 6. Stacking firewood near the home If you put firewood up against your house, you might as well also leave out a welcome mat for the termites. They can burrow into the woodpile and then right into your house. 05. Using do-it-yourself (DIY) products to try to control termites themselves Termite control is not like fixing a leaky faucet. Fail to do it right, and you and your home will most likely pay the price. This is one time you should leave it to the professionals. 04. Having untreated wooden materials next to the home. Yes, that new fence will keep Fido in your yard, but that untreated wood up against your house also might let termites in. It is best to use treated wood or vinyl fencing, or at least leave a gap between the fence and your home. 03. Constructing additions to the home without expanding termite protection. If you’ve added a sunroom, expanded your kitchen or poured a new patio, that addition needs to be protected from termites, too. Don’t offer up that beautiful new addition as a termite’s next meal. 02. Not fixing earth-to-ground structural wood contact. If a portion of your wood porch is touching soil, you’re asking for termites. Soil + wood contact = termites. 01. And the No. 1 mistake homeowners make when it comes to termites is: Not getting a professional termite inspection. Termites are not easy to detect, and failing to do so can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Trained professional termite inspectors know termite behavior ─ where they like to hide, what their damage looks like, what they leave behind as evidence. You don’t. Leave this one up to the professionals. “Homeowners don’t have the experience to know what to look for,” Derek Salazar says. “When we do an inspection, we can point out to the customer what we think are liabilities that would increase the incidence of termites in their home.” This survey was conducted in 2012 with Certified Sentricon Specialists® from across the country. To find a termite professional or to learn more about Sentricon, visit Sentricon.com or download the Sentricon System app through iTunes here.
Brown Recluse Spiders: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been living in your home for any length of time, chances are you’ve come across a spider or two. While most spiders pose no threat to humans, there is one type of spider that every homeowner should be aware of: the brown recluse spider. Read on to learn everything you need to know about brown recluse spiders, including how to identify them and what to do if you find one in your home. Identifying Brown Recluse Spiders Brown recluse spiders are small insects that are typically brown or tan in color. They have a violin-shaped marking on their backs and are typically between 1/4 and 3/8 of an inch long. If you think you may have found a brown recluse spider, it’s important to take a close look at it before taking any further action. If you’re not sure whether or not the spider you’ve found is a brown recluse, consult with an expert—better safe than sorry! A Better Pest Control Experience Dangers Posed by Brown Recluse Spiders While most spiders pose no threat to humans, brown recluses are different. Their bites can cause serious health problems, including necrosis (death of tissue) and systemic reactions (affecting the entire body). If you suspect that you may have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. What to Do if You Find a Brown Recluse in Your Home If you find a brown recluse in your home, the best course of action is to contact a professional exterminator. Exterminators will be able to identify the spider and determine the best way to eliminate it from your home so that you and your family can rest easy knowing that the danger has been taken care of. FAQ About Brown Recluse Spiders: 1. What does a brown recluse spider look like? Brown Recluse Spiders are typically brown or light tan. They can range in size from 6 to 20 mm in length and 2 to 10 mm in width. Their legs are long and slender, and their bodies are covered in fine hairs. One of the most distinctive features of Brown Recluse Spiders is the dark brown violin-shaped mark on their backs. This mark is used to distinguish them from other spiders. Brown recluse spider egg sacs is a small, light brown and somewhat leathery silk case that will contain the spiders eggs. 2. Where do brown recluse spiders live? Brown recluse spiders are most commonly found in the central and southeastern United States. They prefer to live in dark, secluded places like basements, attics, and closets. Brown recluse spiders are also often found in storage boxes, shoes, and folded clothing. These spiders typically only come out at night in search of food. Brown recluse spiders are not aggressive and will only bite humans if they feel threatened. If you think you have found a brown recluse spider, it is important to exercise caution and contact a pest control professional for assistance. 3. How do brown recluse spiders get into homes? Brown recluse spiders are notorious for their ability to invade homes and businesses. But how do they get inside? Brown recluse spiders are attracted to warm, dark places. They may enter through cracks and crevices in the foundation or walls. Once inside, they will find a secluded spot to build their webs. Brown recluse spiders are often found in basements, attics, closets, and storage containers. They can also be found behind furniture, appliances, and under sinks. Brown recluse spiders are relatively shy and will avoid contact with humans if possible. However, they will bite if they feel threatened. If you suspect that you have brown recluse spiders in your home, it is best to contact a professional pest control company for assistance. 4. What do brown recluse spider bites look like? Brown recluse spider bites usually look like a small, red bump. However, within a few hours, the bump will begin to swell and turn into a blotchy, purple rash. The area around the where the bite occurs will also feel painful and cramping. In some cases, the venom from the spider can cause tissue death, resulting in a large, open sore. Brown recluse spider bites are usually not fatal, but they can be very painful and uncomfortable, and can cause a medical condition that requires attention. If you suspect that you have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. 5. How do I know if I have a brown recluse spider bite? Brown recluse spiders are shy by nature and would rather retreat than bite; however, if provoked, they will bite. Their bites can cause necrosis, which is the death of tissue. Brown recluse spider bites often go unnoticed because they inject a small amount of venom. The bitten area may appear as a small, red bump that does not hurt. Sometimes there is no reaction at all. It may take 2-8 hours for symptoms to develop. Brown recluse spider bites can cause fever, chills, nausea, and achy muscles. There is also an increase in saliva and sweating. The affected area will turn white then blue and begin to swell. A blister will form and the center will turn black within 2-3 days, resulting in the death of tissue surrounding the bite. If you think you have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, seek medical attention immediately as their bites can be very dangerous. 6. What should I do if I think I have a brown recluse spider bite? Brown recluse spider bites are rare, but can be dangerous. Brown recluse spiders are small, brown spiders that have distinguishing marks on their backs. If you think you have been bitten by a brown recluse spider, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Brown recluse spider bites can cause necrosis, or the death of tissue. Bites can also lead to serious infections. Symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite include
Raccooning in Humble: Why You Need Professional Help
It’s springtime in Humble, which means the animals are coming out of hibernation and looking for food and shelter. One of the animals you may encounter is the raccoon. Raccoons are intelligent and resourceful animals that can cause extensive damage to your home if they decide to take up residence. It is important to take precautions to prevent raccoons from getting into your home, and if they do get in, it is important to call a professional for help. How Raccoons Get into Houses Raccoons are good climbers, and they can fit through surprisingly small spaces. They will often try to enter homes through gaps in the roofline, chimneys, soffits, vents, or any other openings they can find. Once they are inside, they will make themselves at home, tearing up insulation for nesting material, raiding your garbage cans, leaving droppings throughout your attic or crawlspace, and generally wreaking havoc. In addition to the damage they cause to your home, raccoons can also carry diseases like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus, which can be harmful to humans and pets. Professional pest control services from FullScope provide tailored, effective solutions, call your local raccoon experts today, 832-898-0190 Recommended Read: Preventing Raccoons from Getting into Your Home The best way to deal with a raccoon problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. To do this, you need to make sure your home is not inviting to raccoons. Start by repairing any damage to your roofline or other areas of your home that could provide an opening for raccoons. Make sure vents are properly screened and chimneys have caps. Keep trash cans securely covered, and pick up any fallen fruit from trees around your property. If you have pet food outside, bring it inside at night. If you take these precautions, you will greatly reduce the chances of raccoons taking up residence in your home. Recommended Read: BROWN RECLUSE SPIDERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Conclusion: Dealing with a raccoon problem can be a big hassle—not to mention dangerous if the raccoon is carrying diseases. The best way to deal with raccoons is to prevent them from getting into your home in the first place by repairing any damage and making sure there are no openings that would allow them access. If you do find yourself with a raccoon problem, however, call a professional like FullScope Pest Control for help rather than trying to handle it yourself. When it comes to raccoon exclusion services, you want to select a local company that is experienced in trapping and removal, as well a insured and with exceptional service reviews, so you do not end up paying more than one for the work.
5 Best Ways To Remove Termites
As some termites can cause severe, long-lasting damage, termites inside a home can be a significant problem for homeowners. These bugs will establish a colony inside a house where they will eat the wood and cause damage. Termites can harm a home’s structural stability severely and sometimes permanently if they are not dealt with quickly and effectively. Hence, these are the top 5 ways to remove termites. Termiticide Defenses Termite-killing products designed for professionals may be available depending on your location. These traditional termite treatments are applied to the exterior perimeter of your home to create a barrier. Termites cannot detect termiticide and thus do not attempt to avoid it. A termite will die if it consumes termiticide-treated materials. Termiticides work similarly to viruses in that they spread. When one termite comes into contact with termiticide, it unknowingly spreads it to other termites, infecting them and ultimately killing the colony. Boric Acid Boric acid is a tried-and-true method of termite control. Many termite insecticides on the market contain highly effective boric acid as the main ingredient. Boric acid is toxic to termites because it causes them to dehydrate and shut down their nervous systems, ultimately leading to death. Just spray the acid into the holes and crevices on the ground, walls, and ceilings. Insecticides Foam termite treatments, such as Termidor, can penetrate deep into cracks and crevices to eradicate hidden termites. The space will be filled with foam, and when it evaporates, it will leave an insecticide behind, killing any termites who come into contact with it. You can use dust agents to eliminate any remaining termites that foam or liquid treatments have missed. Read all insecticide instructions carefully and avoid using them around pets or children. Another advantage is that foams frequently work to eliminate ants and termites, providing an additional layer of pest control. Beneficial Nematodes The nematodes kill termites by injecting a specific type of bacteria into their body, so there is a high probability that the entire colony will be affected. They’re simple to use and safe for both people and animals. Spraying them into the yard, garage, basement, and other contaminated areas would be best. Orange Essential Oil Orange peel makes orange essential oil, which has the insecticidal chemical D-limonene. Insects are repelled and killed by this compound. This strategy for preventing termites relies on a certain concentration of citric acid within the D-limonene molecule. This acid degrades the termite’s backbone, which in turn causes it to lose water and protein until it eventually expires. Must Read: HOW TO KEEP BOXELDER BUGS OUT YOUR HOME THIS WINTER Final Thoughts If you have a termite problem, it’s better to call an exterminator than try DIY methods. This will ensure that they’re not just repelled but actually killed. When hiring a professional, you can rest assured that they will have a thorough understanding of the chemicals and equipment required to complete the task at hand. Also read about How to keep Boxelder Bugs out of this winter. At Fullscope Pest Control, we provide the most effective pest control service with a strategy created especially for your needs and budget limit. We’re here to help you keep your home termite-free, so give us a call today!
How to Keep Boxelder Bugs Out Your Home this Winter
If you’re a homeowner, then it’s likely that you’ve had to deal with pests at some point or another. In the fall, one of the most common pests that tends to invade homes is the boxelder bug. While they may not pose a serious threat to your health, they can be quite a nuisance. If you’re looking for information on how to get rid of boxelder bugs, then read on. We’ll provide tips on how to get rid of them and keep them from coming back. What are boxelder bugs and where do they come from? Boxelder bugs are small, black insects with red markings on their wings. They are often found on boxelder trees, hence their name. While they are not dangerous to humans, boxelder bugs can be a nuisance. They often enter homes in search of warmth during the winter months, and their excrement can stain walls and furniture. Must Read About: Best Rodent Control Near Me While boxelder bugs are not harmful to humans, they can be destructive to boxelder trees. The bugs feed on the tree’s leaves, buds, and seeds, causing extensive damage. In severe infestations, boxelder trees can be killed. Thankfully, there are several ways to control boxelder bug populations. Pesticides can be used to kill the bugs, and barriers can be placed around trees to prevent them from accessing the leaves and branches. With proper management, boxelder bugs can be controlled, and the damage they cause can be minimized. What do boxelder bugs look like and what are their distinguishing features? Boxelder bugs are small, black and red insects that are often found on boxelder trees. They get their name from the fact that they are often found on these trees. They are also known to feed on the sap of these trees. Boxelder bugs can be a nuisance to homeowners because they often congregate in large numbers on the outside of homes in the autumn, looking for a place to overwinter. They can also sometimes find their way into homes through cracks and crevices. Boxelder bugs are not known to cause any damage to homes or humans, but their presence can be a nuisance nonetheless. How do you get rid of boxelder bugs if they invade your home in the fall? Boxelder bugs are attracted to the warmth of homes in the fall, looking for a place to overwinter. These overwintering pests are not capable of biting or stinging, but their presence can be a nuisance. They do not cause structural damage to homes, but they can stain surfaces with their excrement. While boxelder bugs are not harmful, many people want to get rid of them if they invade their home. The best way to get rid of boxelder bugs is to vacuum them up and dispose of them outside. You can also seal up any cracks or crevices where they might be entering your home. Taking these measures should help to keep boxelder bugs out of your home. Are there any natural ways to repel boxelder bugs without using chemicals or pesticides? Fortunately, there are some natural methods that can be used to repel boxelder bugs. One of the most effective is to plant boxelder trees around the perimeter of your property. These trees produce a sap that boxelder bugs find repulsive, and they will avoid areas where the sap is present. You can also try placing bundles of dried Lavender around your home, as the scent of Lavender is known to repel boxelder bugs. Finally, keep your yard clean and free of debris, as boxelder bugs are attracted to cluttered areas. How can you prevent boxelder bugs from invading your home in the first place? Another thing you can do to prevent boxelder bugs from invading your home is to seal any cracks or openings around your home where they might be able to get inside. Take a walk around your home and look for any cracks in the foundation or openings around windows and doors. Once you’ve found these areas, seal them up with caulk or another suitable material. This will help to keep box elder bugs out of your home and prevent them from becoming a nuisance. Recommended Read: How to Pest Proof Your Home What should you do if you see a boxelder bug inside your home? If you spot a boxelder bug inside your home, there’s no need to panic. While they can be pesky pests, they generally don’t cause any harm. The best course of action is to simply remove them from your home and release them back into the wild. Here’s how to do it: 1. Carefully scoop up the bug using a piece of paper or a small container. 2. Carry the bug outside and release it into a safe area away from your home. 3. Vacuum them up 4. If you have boxelder bugs regularly entering your home, you may need to take measures to seal up any cracks or openings where they’re getting in. This could include caulking cracks around windows and doors, or installing weatherstripping around entry points. By following these simple steps, you can get rid of boxelder bugs without causing any harm. 1. Seal Up Cracks and Gaps Another way to prevent boxelder bugs from getting into your home is to seal up any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior. These pests can squeeze through very small spaces, so it’s important to make sure there are no openings that they can exploit. Caulk any cracks in your foundation or around windows and doors. 2. Remove Boxelder Trees If you have boxelder trees on your property, you’re more likely to have problems with these pests. Boxelder bugs are attracted to these trees and will often lay their eggs on them. If possible, remove any boxelder trees from your property to help reduce the population of these pests. 3. Prevention is the Best Policy If you have dealt with them before, the best way to prevent them from entering
How to Find the Best Rodent Control Near Me
No one wants rodents in their home. Not only are they gross, but they can also be dangerous, carrying diseases that can be harmful to your family. If you’re dealing with a rodent problem, you need to find the best possible rodent control near me to get rid of them for good. Here’s how to find the right company for the job. 1. Look for a Pest Control Company That Offers a Free Inspection The first step in finding the best possible rodent control near me is to look for a company that offers a free inspection. This way, you can be sure that they know what they’re doing and that they’ll be able to properly identify the problem. A free inspection will also give you a chance to ask questions and get more information about the company before committing to anything. Must Read About Pest Proofing Your Home 2. Ask for Recommendations from Friends or Family Members If you know someone who has recently had a rodent problem, ask them who they used for pest control. They’ll be able to tell you firsthand whether or not the company was effective and if they would recommend them. Getting a recommendation from someone you trust is always a good idea. 3. Read Online Reviews Another great way to find the best possible rodent control near me is to read online reviews. Customer reviews will give you an idea of what others have thought about a particular company’s services. Make sure to read both positive and negative reviews so that you can get a well-rounded idea of what to expect. 4. Make Sure the Company Offers a Guarantee When you’re looking for rat and mice control near me, it’s important to make sure that the company offers some sort of guarantee. This will ensure that you’re satisfied with the results and that your money isn’t being wasted. A good company will stand by their work and offer guarantees on both their workmanship and on the results achieved. 5. Make Sure the Rodent Company is Licensed Pest control services as well as trapping and the application of rodenticide requires a license. Confirm they are licensed with the state of Texas as well as insured. Easiest way to tell is that the vehicles contain TPCL numbers that are clearly visible on the vehicle. Recommended Read: How to Eliminate Mice and Rats From Your Home Conclusion: Finding the best possible rodent control near me doesn’t have to be difficult. Just make sure that you look for a company that offers a free inspection, ask for recommendations, read online reviews, and make sure they offer guarantees on their workmanship and results! Do all of this, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect company for your needs! Exclusion and trapping needs to be done correctly to prevent reentry into the structure, verify these 5 items will help you have peace of mind about your decision.
Pest Proofing Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide
No one wants pests in their home. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also pose a serious threat to your health and the structural integrity of your home. The good news is that there are a number of things you can do to prevent pests from taking up residence in your home in the first place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to pest-proof your home so you can rest easy knowing that both you and your house are safe from harm. Seal Cracks and Gaps One of the most effective ways to keep pests out of your home is to make it as difficult as possible for them to get inside in the first place. Take a walk around your home and look for any cracks or gaps in the foundation, windows, and doors. These are all potential entry points for pests, so it’s important to seal them up with caulk or weatherstripping. Not only will this help keep pests out, but it will also improve the energy efficiency of your home. Also, read about Autumn’s Unwanted Guests Pest Pest-proof your Porch and decks These areas can be great harborage areas for insects, rodents and wildlife. Make sure that you try to limit access to rodents and wildlife. Keep the decking clean of leaf litter, and sweep those leaves away. Window Pest Proofing Make this step an annual event, take a step back and inspect for damaged screening and any gaps and openings that need to be addressed. These are ideal entry points for mosquitoes, ladybugs and stink bugs that overwinter. Related Article: How to Keep Boxelder Bugs Out of Your Home This Winter Must Read:AUTUMN’S UNWANTED GUESTS: THE ASIAN LADY BEETLE Keep Your Home Clean Another way to deter pests is to keep your house clean. Many pests, such as cockroaches, are attracted to food sources, so it’s important to keep your counters and floors free of crumbs and spills. Put away food in airtight containers, and take out the trash regularly. You should also sweep and mop regularly to remove any food sources that might be attracting pests. Keep your floors clean and vacuum often. If you think you have fleas, vacuuming will not eliminate them, you will need to call in the big guns, your local pest experts. Eliminate Moisture Sources Moisture is another attracting factor for many types of pests, so it’s important to eliminate any sources of moisture in your home. Repair leaks in plumbing fixtures and appliances, and make sure that drains are clear so they don’t overflow. In addition, use a dehumidifier in areas of your home that tend to be moist, such as the basement or laundry room. By eliminating moisture sources, you can make your home less attractive to pests. Pest-proof Your Roof Check for gaps or holes in facia boards, soffits, roofline, roof pitches, gables and roof vents. Remember that rats can enter a home through an opening as small as a quarter. Larger openings can allow squirrels, and even raccoons to take up residency. Think you have a problem, call your local pest professionals, to come out and inspect and offer you an exclusion plan. Check Your Doors Even the smallest gap on the side or underneath of your door can allow insects, and even snakes to enter. Make sure your door sweeps and thresholds at the base of exterior doors are in good condition. Trash and Recycling Bins Don’t let your trash and recycling pile up, keep them covered and sealed. Regularly clean all trash receptacles to prevent insect invasions. Pest Proof Down Low Make sure to check areas at the base of the home home, look for large weep holes, seal up electrical line openings as well as plumbing penetration and A/C lines. Inspect for mortar cracks and repair accordingly. Conclusion: Pests are more than just a nuisance; they can also pose a serious threat to your health and the structural integrity of your home. Luckily, there are a number of things you can do to prevent pests from taking up residence in your house. By sealing cracks and gaps, keeping your home clean, and eliminating moisture sources, you can make your house much less attractive to pests—and much safer for yourself and your family. If you are wanting to keep unwanted pests from entering your home, talk with your local pest experts. We can help you to identify the pest, locate the likely points of entry and eliminate the potential from invasion.
Autumn’s Unwanted Guests: The Asian Lady Beetle
If you live in the United States, you may have noticed some little red and black bugs crawling around your house as autumn approaches. These are called Asian lady beetles, and while they’re not harmful to humans, they can be quite a nuisance. Here’s everything you need to know about these pests—and how to get rid of them. Where Do Asian Lady Beetles Come From? As their name suggests, Asian lady beetles are not native to the United States. They were first introduced into California in 1916 in an effort to control aphids and other crop-destroying pests. However, the beetles quickly adapted and spread to other parts of the country, where they have become a major nuisance in homes and businesses. What Do Asian Lady Beetles Look Like? Asian lady beetles are small—usually around 1/4 of an inch long—and oval-shaped. They have six legs, two antennae, and wings that they can use to fly. Most importantly, they have a distinctive red or orange “M”-shaped marking on their heads. Some lady beetles also have spots on their wing covers, but not all do. Are Asian Lady Beetles Harmful? Luckily, Asian lady beetles are not harmful to humans or animals. However, they can be a real pain if they decide to make your home their winter abode. Once inside, they can emit a foul odor and cause allergies in some people. In large numbers, they can also stain walls and furniture with their yellowish secretion. Must Read Are Hornets A Type Of Wasps In the autumn months the adult beetles will leave their summer sites in yards, fields and forests to head into protected areas for the winter. It is not uncommon to have swarms of ladybugs during the October, November months in Texas. They will seek out cracks and crevices to inter and congregate in the attics, wall cavities and other protected interior areas of the home or business. Once temperatures start to warm up they will become active again in early spring, then the beetle will try to escape the structure to the outdoors, in some cases inadvertently wandering into the interior. They are attracted to light and will be found around light fixtures and windows. Recommended Read: 4 Things to Prevent Fall Pests How Can I Get Rid Of Them? The best way to get rid of Asian lady beetles is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. To do this, caulk up any cracks or crevices around doors and windows where they might be able to sneak in. You should also make sure that your doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. If you already have lady beetles in your home, vacuuming them up is usually the most effective way to get rid of them. Just be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately so that the lady beetles don’t escape and come back again. You can also try using a solution of soap and water to attract and trap them. Do not try to swat them as they will leave a stain, better to simply vacuum them up. Finally, if you want a more permanent solution, you can always call an exterminator. We can offer prevention solutions for the Asian lady beetle invasion. Conclusion: As temperatures start to cool down in autumn, you may notice some unwanted guests making their way into your home: Asian lady beetles. These little critters are not harmful to humans or animals, but they can be quite a nuisance if they decide to take up residence in your house, Call FullScope Pest Control if you want to prevent these pests from coming inside or get rid of them if they’ve already made themselves at home.