5 Tips to Get Rid of Ants

If you find ants in your home, don’t panic! While these pesky insects can get into your food and certain types of ants can bite, there are ways to get rid of them. Follow these five tips for how to get rid of ants and keep them out of your home for good.

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5 Tips to Get Rid of Ants

1. Caulk cracks and crevices

First, try to determine where they’re coming from. Often, ants will enter homes through cracks in the foundation or gaps around doors and windows. Take a close look around your home for any cracks or crevices that ants might be using to get inside. Once you’ve found them, seal them up with caulk or another sealant.

2. Keep food stored in sealed containers

Ants are attracted to the sweet smell of food, so it’s important to keep anything that might be appealing to them stored in airtight containers. This includes sugar, honey, syrup, and even fruit juices. Don’t leave open food or drink containers on your counter, even for a few hours, as ants can quickly detect and infest your snacks.

3. Clean up spills immediately

Spills are like a beacon for ants, so it’s important to clean them up as soon as they happen. The longer a spill sits, the more ants will come. So, if you want to get rid of ants, clean up spills immediately. Wipe up any crumbs or liquids with cleaning spray and a towel, and put food away so that ants can’t find it. If you start doing this, you’ll notice a big difference in the number of ants in your house.

4. Use ant traps

Stink bugs become a common pest issue in March because this is the time of year when they begin to emerge from their overwintering sites in search of food and shelter. They are attracted to the warmth of homes, buildings, and other protected areas, and can easily enter through cracks and crevices.

5. Try natural remedies to get rid of ants

There are also some natural remedies you can use to get rid of ants in your home. Here are some to try:

  • Use pepper to get rid of ants. Ants don’t like the smell of pepper, so sprinkle black or cayenne pepper around the cracks and crevices of your home to deter ants.
  • Use essential oils to get rid of ants. Some oil scents that deter ants include peppermint oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon leaf oil, and lemon eucalyptus oil. 
  • Use coffee grounds to get rid of ants. If you have leftover coffee grounds from your morning pot of coffee, don’t toss them! Brewed coffee grounds can deter ants, so try sprinkling them around window seals, pet bowls, or other areas you see ants gather.
  • Use white vinegar to get rid of ants. You might not like the smell of vinegar, and neither do ants. Try cleaning your floors, countertops, and other surfaces with a mixture of half water and half white vinegar. 
  • Use cornstarch to get rid of ants. If you need to kill and dispose of ants quickly, pour cornstarch over them to smother the ants. Then vacuum up the remains and dispose of the debris immediately.
  •  

Try these methods to get rid of ants today

Don’t let ants run the show at your house! Try one of these five ways to get rid of ants and keep them out of your home. You will be ant-free before you know it. 

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How to Get Rid of Bugs in Your House Naturally 

How to Get Rid of Bugs in Your House Naturally 

Having pests in your home can be uncomfortable. Whether you’re a fan of nature or not, some bugs can be too much to live alongside. Most homes have around 100 different types of bugs living in them every day and most of them you won’t even know about. However, some bugs can be unpleasant to have around. Whether your home is filled with ants, spiders, cockroaches, fleas, termites, bed bugs, mosquitoes, or flies, there are ways to get rid of them naturally. Many of the products you can buy to kill bugs in the home contain nasty chemicals. These can be harmful to both humans and pets, so it’s usually best to avoid these where possible.

Here are some natural ways on how to get rid of bugs:

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Fleas Hate Salt

If you’ve got fleas in the home, it can make you feel itchy at the thought of them. Seeing a flea on your cat or dog can cause panic, but there are easy ways to naturally get rid of fleas in your home. If you have found a flea on your pet, you may also find them in areas of the home. Throw salt on problem areas and leave it for a day or two, then vacuum it up and repeat.

Soap the Ants

Ants can quickly take over your home. They usually start in the kitchen as they are attracted to food, but they can take over other areas. You may have tried several things to get rid of ants in the past with no success. However, using dish soap is a good way to exterminate them quickly. Ants can damage the wood in your home and can also contaminate food, so it’s best to get rid of them ASAP. Mix dish soap in a spray bottle and spray the solution in areas you’ve seen ants.

Use Herbs Against Flies

Flies can be very annoying, they can also contaminate food. Having flies in your home is rather unpleasant and it can be difficult to get rid of them. One great natural way to keep them away is to use basil. Having basil plants in problem areas can be a good solution as flies hate the stuff. If you don’t want to put basil plants around, dried basil around entrances such as doors and window frames can also be effective.

Get Rid of Spiders With Lemons and Limes

Whether you’re afraid of spiders or you just don’t want them in your home, there’s an easy way to keep them away. Most spiders are harmless, but if you live in an area with poisonous spiders, then it’s best to get rid of them. Squeezing some lemon or lime juice into a spray bottle with some water can be a great way to keep the spiders away. Just spray it in areas where you’ve seen them in your home.

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Use Baking Soda Against Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are very horrible to have in your home. They can also be very harmful and cover you in bites that can get infected. Many people try a variety of ways to get rid of bed bugs with little success. Instead of using chemicals against bed bugs, why not try baking soda? All you need to do is spread it over the bed and leave it to work its magic. Hoover the mattress every couple of days and repeat the process. The reason baking soda works is because it dries out the moisture in the bodies of the bed bugs, which kills them and prevents their breeding.

Kill Cockroaches With Oil and Syrup

Cockroaches can show up in even the cleanest of homes. If you’ve got them in yours, you’ll probably want to get rid of them fast. Before you reach for a chemical spray, however, why not try a natural solution. A chemical spray isn’t the best thing to use in your home, especially if you’ve got children or pets. Instead, try a natural trap. All you need to do is get an empty bottle and add some syrup to the bottom. Then, rub cooking oil around the top of the bottle. This will attract cockroaches and trap them in the bottle and simply kill them.

Use Garlic Against Mosquitos

Mosquitos are nasty, they spread diseases and they’re very unpleasant to have in your home. Fortunately, there is a natural way to get rid of them, with garlic. Garlic is poisonous to mosquitos and the smell of it also repels them. Crush some garlic and add it to water in a spray bottle. This solution will kill them if sprayed at them and will help prevent others from entering your home.

Orange Oil For Termites

Termites are pests that can cause damage to your home. They are often found in furniture or wooden furnishings and these are the things they can damage. To get rid of them quickly, use a rag to apply orange oil to the areas where you’ve seen them. If you are concerned they are deep inside the wood, then try injecting the oil in any cracks, or drill a small hole and inject it into the hole.

Call In a Professional 

Sometimes, DIY pest control is unsuccessful.

If you have a particularly severe problem then it can be hard to tackle.

The best thing to do when these methods don’t work is call in a professional.

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7 Common Mistakes People Make When Hiring a Pest Control Company

7 Common Mistakes People Make When Hiring a Pest Control Company

Do you need help hiring a pest control company to help rid your home of pests? Taking the necessary steps to protect your property and family is important, but people make many common mistakes when choosing a pest control company.

Understanding common pest control pitfalls before selecting a service provider is essential to ensure you get the best treatment for your situation. Here are seven of the most frequent mistakes people make when hiring a pest control company so you can avoid them and feel confident in making an informed decision.

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7 Common Mistakes People Make When Hiring a Pest Control Company

Mistake #7: Lack of pest control understanding

Managing pests can be complicated. Therefore, when shopping for a pest specialist, you must be aware of some basic pest control practices and principles to weed out the good companies from the not-so-good ones.

Pest control is a science, and every property is different. To control pests correctly, a pest control company should assess the situation with a full inspection before diagnosing or treating any issues. A reliable and trustworthy pest company won’t just be eager to sell you a service; they’ll want to work together as a team to help you achieve long-term pest control results.

Mistake #6: Having unrealistic expectations

This point ties in with the above: a lack of understanding of pest control leads to unrealistic expectations.

The best pest control company won’t be too eager to treat using products and chemicals. Instead, they should want to build a relationship with you while finding the best, most cost-effective, and environmentally conscious solutions to each issue, starting with pest identification.

Pest control can take time, especially if the issue is severe. As frustrating as it can be, try to be patient. If your pest control company has advice for what you can do to help with treatment, make sure to follow it. Pest control is a team effort, and following your pest company’s advice could be the key to keeping pests away for good!

Mistake #5: Not doing the research

Do your research before hiring a pest control company. Of course, most people head to the internet to do their research, and that’s a great place to start, but it also helps to keep an eye around town and chat with neighbors.

What pest control company vehicles do you notice driving your streets? Which pest control offices are close to your house? The more experience a pest control company has controlling pests in your neighborhood, the better.

Also, having a preferred search engine or review site is okay, but be sure to cross-verify pest control companies before hiring someone to come out to your house. After all, pest control can be pricey, and you want to ensure the company you hire is one you can trust.

Use multiple sites to conduct your research and find the right pest control company for your situation, budget, and lifestyle.

Mistake #4: Choosing a company because they have the most reviews

A five-star review is a five-star review, right? Not always…

When looking through review pages, understand that the number of reviews isn’t necessarily as important as the quality of reviews. Unfortunately, nowadays, companies can boost their online presence by paying for 5-star reviews.

Spend time reading through company reviews carefully to ensure they’re from real customers who took the time to share their experience and not from false accounts that trick people into trusting companies they shouldn’t.

Mistake #3: Getting swept up in ‘green’ pest control advertising

Green pest control practices are good, but watch out for ‘greenwashing’ when hiring a pest control company.

Greenwashing is a way that all kinds of companies (not just pest control) try to capitalize on the need for eco-friendly products and services without actually providing what they say they will. Often, products and services that have been “greenwashed” are the same as before, just with some catchy new slogans or taglines. But, green or not, if a pest program focuses solely on product application, beware!

If you’re really interested in eco-friendly pest control, focus on finding companies that stay up-to-date on pest science and biology and use trusted pest control methods like IPM. These companies will have the tools to help you achieve lasting pest control results with minimal risk.

Mistake #2: Choosing pest control services based on price alone

Let’s be frank: you won’t get the best quality pest control services if your primary concern is spending the least money. Opting for the cheapest pest control option can cause pest problems to become worse, leading to more significant costs in the long run.

While it can be tempting to go with the service that costs the least, instead, go for the one that makes the most overall sense, not just for your wallet but for your family, property, and environment.

Mistake #1: Not signing up for recurring pest control services

Recurring pest control services are necessary if you want to keep your home and property safe from the damage pests cause while staying on a budget. If your pest company is coming out regularly, it gives them a chance to address pests seasonally, working ahead of pest problems to avoid severe issues in the first place.

Pests are incredibly persistent, and they will keep trying to come back. Regular pest control doesn’t just mean consistent service visits. With recurring services, you’ll have trusted pest pros in your corner if an issue arises.

Another big bonus? Regular pest services often cost less over time than paying for separate one-time treatments.

Just be careful: Make sure to read the contract thoroughly before signing. Some companies require a minimum contract term, and you’ll want to be aware of those terms before you sign.

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The Most Common Pest Issues in April

As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, April is a time of year when pest control issues become more common. The most common pest control issues in April vary depending on location and climate. As the temperatures and humidity levels in the North and South regions vary so drastically, the most common pest control issues in April also vary greatly.

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The most common pest issues in April smarter home and yard

Common pest issues in northern states in April

Generally, in the northern states, ants, mice, and cockroaches are the most common pest control issues in April. This is because the warm weather encourages these pests to come out from their winter hiding spots and search for food and nesting places. In addition, spring rains can cause an increase in these pests, as moisture helps them to thrive. Beginning regular pest control treatments done by a professional pest control campaign can prevent issues with ants, mice, and cockroaches before an infestation occurs.

Common pest issues in southern states in April

Mosquitoes, fire ants, and termites can be common pest control issues in southern states during April due to higher temperatures and more rain. This increase in warmth and humidity can result in an uptick in insect populations, which can become a nuisance in homes, yards, and other areas. Mosquitoes and fire ants can be especially problematic, as they can bite and sting people and animals. Termites can cause destruction to wooden structures, such as houses and decks. Therefore, it is important to be proactive in pest control during the warmer months in order to keep these insects at bay.

Emerging pests in April

In all regions, April is the peak season for the emergence of many pests, such as carpenter ants and wasps, due to the increasing temperatures and available food sources. April also marks the start of the growing season, which can bring an increased risk of crop pests, such as aphids, thrips, and beetles. 

 

For pet owners, be aware that April is also a prime time for flea and tick infestations. April marks the beginning of warmer temperatures and higher humidity, which is the perfect climate for fleas and ticks to thrive. Fleas and ticks require warmth and moisture to survive, and as the weather warms up and rain increases, these pests are more active, making April a prime time for infestations.

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Preventative measures for common pest issues in april

The good news is there are easy ways to prevent issues with pests including insects and rodents. With proactive measures taken by homeowners and pest control specialists, you can protect your home and yard from common pest issues that occur in April.

  1. Keep your home clean and free of clutter. 
  2. Vacuum regularly to remove food crumbs and other debris that can attract pests. 
  3. Repair any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior, as these can be entry points for pests. 
  4. Seal off any openings around windows, doors, and other entry points. 
  5. Keep food in airtight containers or in the refrigerator. 
  6. Regularly clean up pet food and water bowls. 
  7. Monitor your yard for signs of pests, such as nests or droppings. 
  8. Trim back any overgrown plants or bushes that can provide shelter for pests. 
  9. Inspect any potential firewood for pests before bringing it into your home. 
  10. Have a pest control company inspect your home and develop a plan for prevention.

April is a time of year when pest control issues become more common in both the North and South regions. Pest control professionals can help to identify and treat these issues to keep homes and businesses safe and pest-free.

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Identifying A Rodent Problem In Your Home

Have you been noticing strange noises in the walls of your home or finding droppings around your pantry? You might have a rodent problem. Rodents can cause damage to your home and spread disease. Read on for tips to identifying a rodent problem and the steps to get rid of them.

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Identifying A Rodent Problem In Your Home smarter home and yard

Know the Signs of a Rodent Infestation

The first step in identifying a rodent problem is to be aware of the signs. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and tracks in dust or dirt. You may also hear squeaking, scratching, or chewing noises coming from walls or ceilings.

Identify the Type of Rodent

Once you’ve determined that you have a rodent problem, the next step is to identify the type of rodent. Different types of rodents have different characteristics. For example, mice typically have small, pointed noses, while rats have larger noses and longer tails.

Learn About Rodent Habits

To better understand rodents and how to get rid of them, it’s important to learn about rodent habits. Rodents are nocturnal creatures, so they’re most active at night. They also like to hide in dark, secluded places such as in walls, attics, and crawl spaces.

Take Action to Get Rid of Rodents

Once you’ve identified the type of rodent and learned about their habits, the next step is to take action. You can use traps, poison, or natural repellents to get rid of the rodents. It’s also important to seal up any entry points in your home to prevent new rodents from entering.

Identifying a rodent problem in your home is the first step in getting rid of them. By following the steps outlined above, you can identify the type of rodent, learn about their habits, and take the necessary steps to get rid of them and keep them out of your home.

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The Latest Innovations in Termite Control Technology

The Latest Innovations in Termite Control Technology

In recent years, the pest control industry has made enormous strides in the development of more effective termite control technologies. With new advancements, it is now easier than ever to identify, treat, and prevent termite infestations. The latest innovations in termite control technology have included more accurate detection methods, improved treatments, and new ways of protecting buildings from infestation.

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Baiting Systems

Baiting systems are becoming increasingly popular for termite control due to their ability to monitor termite activity and treat only the affected areas. The baiting system works by placing bait stations around the perimeter of a home or building. The bait station contains a material such as wood, cardboard, or cellulose that is attractive to termites. When the termites feed on the material, they ingest a slow-acting insecticide that kills the termites and disrupts their reproductive cycle. The baiting system is an effective and non-intrusive way to eliminate a termite infestation, while also helping to protect the structure from future infestations.

Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging is a termite control technology used to detect the presence of moisture and high moisture levels that can indicate the presence of termites in an area. Termites are drawn to moist environments and need water to survive. Thermal imaging cameras detect temperature variations to produce an image that shows the normal and abnormal moisture levels in an area. This allows pest control professionals to detect termites that may be hiding behind walls, in flooring, or in other hard-to-reach areas. Thermal imaging is a fast, accurate, and non-invasive way to detect termite activity in a structure or area and to monitor the effectiveness of termite control treatments.

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Physical Termite Barriers

Termite barriers are physical barriers designed to protect homes from termite infestation. These barriers can be installed around the perimeter of a home or building, as well as under its foundation. The type of material used for the barrier varies depending on its purpose. Some of the most commonly used materials include plastic sheeting, treated wood, sand, gravel, and concrete. These barriers act as a physical deterrent to termites, blocking their access to the structure and making it harder for them to enter and establish a colony.

Chemical Termite Barriers

Chemical barriers are a common form of termite control technology and involve the application of an insecticide around the perimeter of a structure to prevent termites from entering. These barriers are typically applied as a liquid or foam, and can be effective at preventing termites from entering the structure. The chemical treatments are designed to be toxic to termites, killing them upon contact and creating a chemical barrier that prevents the termites from crossing. In some cases, these barriers may be supplemented with other treatments, such as baiting systems or physical barriers, to create a comprehensive termite control system.

Fumigation

Fumigation is a method used by pest control professionals to control existing termite infestations. It involves the release of a lethal gas into an enclosed area to kill the termites living there. The gas is odorless, non-staining, and does not leave behind a residue. It is highly effective in killing termites because it penetrates into materials such as wood, and the gas is still lethal even after it is vaporized. Fumigation is often used if the infestation is severe and other methods of control have not been successful in eliminating the problem. It can also be used as a preventative measure to protect a structure from future termite attack.

The latest advances in termite control technology have created more efficient, effective, and environmentally friendly solutions to help homeowners combat termites. These modern solutions provide homeowners with the peace of mind that their home is protected against termites, while also minimizing the impact on the environment. If you believe your home is at risk of termite infestation, it’s a good idea to contact a professional pest control company to assist you in getting the most appropriate termite control solution for your home.

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8 Tips for Preventing a Termite Infestation in Your Home

8 Tips for Preventing a Termite Infestation in Your Home

Termites are one of the most destructive pests that can invade your home. Not only can they cause extensive structural damage to your home, but they can also cause financial hardship if you need to hire a professional to treat the infestation. To avoid this costly situation, it’s important to take preventive measures to protect your home. Here are 8 tips for preventing a termite infestation.

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1. Eliminate sources of moisture in and around your home

Eliminating sources of moisture in your home is key to preventing and controlling termite infestations. Moisture is necessary for termites to survive, and they will seek out places in your home that provide the humidity and moisture they need. If you can limit the amount of moisture in your home, you can help prevent termites from settling in and causing damage. Fixing leaky faucets and pipes, using dehumidifiers, and using proper ventilation in bathrooms and other moist areas can help to keep the moisture levels in your home low and reduce the risk of termite infestations.

2. Keep mulch & firewood away from the foundation of your home

Mulch and firewood provide an ideal food source and habitat for termites, and they can act as a bridge that allows termites to gain access to your home. Keeping mulch and firewood away from your home would be a way of preventing a termite infestation. Additionally, keeping mulch and firewood away from the exterior of your home can help reduce the chances of termites finding their way inside.

Preventing a termite infestation in your home

3. Trim overhanging tree branches and remove stumps near your home

When tree branches hang over your roof, they can provide a bridge for termites to get into your home. These branches can also provide shelter and moisture for the termites. Removing the overhanging branches and stumps can help reduce the chances of termites entering your home. Additionally, dead tree branches can create an inviting environment for other pests, such as rats and mice. Removing the overhanging limbs and stumps can also help keep these pests away from your home.

4. Seal cracks and crevices in your foundation and exterior walls

Sealing cracks and crevices is an important step in preventing a termite infestation in your home. Termites often enter homes through small cracks and crevices, so sealing up those areas can help to keep them out. Sealing can also help to reduce moisture in your home, which is a major attractant for termites. It’s a good idea to inspect your home for potential entry points and seal them up regularly to prevent termite infestations.

5. Install an underground termiticide barrier around your home

Installing an underground termiticide barrier around your home is one of the most effective ways to protect it from termites. This barrier will create a chemical barrier that will prevent termites from entering your property and damaging your home. An underground termiticide barrier will also provide long-term protection from termites as the barrier can last for several years. Additionally, the barrier will also provide protection from other types of pests, such as ants and roaches, which can be just as damaging as termites.

6. Regularly inspect your home for signs of termite activity

Regular inspections can help you detect the signs of termite activity before they cause serious damage. Early detection and treatment can help you avoid costly repairs and structural damage to your home. Signs of termite activity may include: mud tubes on the exterior walls, hollow-sounding wood, visible damage to wood, droppings, and/or winged insects.

Learn more about how to detect signs of a home infestation

Preventing a Termite Infestation in Your Home

7. Ventilate crawl spaces and attics

Ventilating crawl spaces and attics helps to protect your home from termites because it helps to keep moisture levels in these areas low. Termites are attracted to moist areas and without adequate ventilation, moisture can build up in these areas, creating an ideal environment for termites to thrive. In addition, ventilation helps to reduce the temperature in these areas, which can also discourage termite activity. Proper ventilation also helps to prevent mold and mildew growth, further preventing a termite infestation and your home from potential damage.

8. Have your home inspected once a year by a professional pest control company

Regular termite inspections can detect any signs of infestation and help to identify any areas of your home that may be at risk for termite damage. Early detection and treatment are key to avoiding costly repairs due to termite damage.

Follow these 8 tips so that you can continue preventing a termite infestation and ensuring that your home remains termite-free. If you suspect you may have a termite infestation, or have noticed signs of termites, contact a pest control professional to help diagnose and treat the infestation right away. Taking preventative measures and being aware of the signs of termites will help ensure that your home is safe and secure from these destructive pests.

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