Pest Control

03 28 2020

DIY Pest Control: How Can You Prevent The Pests From Entering The Home?

Pests are one of the problems that can ruin the serious brands and homes if you do not take serious precautions against these. One of the best companies in this niche, Houston Pest Control, explained to us some of the things that we can do on our own, without asking the professional help. For this reason, we have prepared for you a short article on this topic.

Find any gaps in the foundation

One of the easiest ways for pests to get inside of the house is through the foundation. Your first goal is to look for any gaps in the foundation. You might use a mirror as well to look under the joints or bumps to see if there is any way for the pests to enter.

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It is important to look carefully as a single crack found can help you to reduce the number of pests significantly. Once you find the location, you should use tape or anything else, to mark the location so you do not lose it. Tag all the locations so you know where to close the gaps on your house foundation.

Close the gaps with copper mesh

Once you identify all of them, the very next step is to close all of them. You can use many different ways, whatever you have as a material for closing. Some people use copper mesh. Simply use it to close the gaps under the pane or inside the hole. This way, the pests cannot go inside through the gaps.

Use the screwdriver to plug the mesh inside and close the hole. Alternatively, you can use a cloth or foam as a replacement material, it does not matter. But the goal is to find all of these to make sure all of them are closed.

Seal the gaps on windows and doors

Another pests’ highway is through the doors and windows, as they can penetrate through the small cracks very easily. In order to prevent them from entering, you should use self-adhesive weatherstripping tape.

How To Get Rid Of Pests — How To Stop Ants

It is cheap and effective way to close the gaps between the panes. It is easy to install as well, meaning you will not lose too much time on this. If there is any gaps on the window’s construction, you can use silicone to close the gap in the wood.

The moisture on foundation and walls

Whenever you see moisture, expect to see the moisture as well. The insects and pests simply love moisture and damp area, so they will start heading to the area once they see it. One of the most common cases is when the soil is moisturized around your foundation. In that case, the insects will be attracted to it and therefore will start crawling to your foundation and look for the gaps and cracks to go inside. Also, make sure that the nearby bushes and weed is neat and cut down regularly. This will prevent the pests from gathering.

03 18 2020

These Are The Best Pest Control Tips That You Must Know

Joanne Platt Pest Control Pest 0

We all love summer and the sunny days as everything starts living again after the long winter. Still, the summer brings the pests that we do not like and that we do not want to deal with if we do not have to. Spiders, mosquitos, ants and other ones can affect our house and decrease the level of quality and comfort. We talked to pest controllers in Pretoria who revealed some of the tips that we must know and must be aware of.

Block the entrance for the pests

One of the crucial things is to block any possible way for pests to enter the house and infest it. We all have holes, screens or cracks that might be a potential highway to them and our job is to identify such places to prevent these from entering.

Close up Cockroach on white a bowl — Cockroach Pest

The windows gaps are one of the most common entrances that pests use to penetrate the house. Make sure to seal any cracks or gaps where they might squeeze and enter. Though not easy, this process requires a thorough inspection of every single corner or gap. Use a foam or concrete to close the gaps.

Do not leave any food in the kitchen

One of the worst mistakes, especially during the summer, is to leave any food leftovers in your kitchen. Pests can smell these leftovers and once they realize there is a source of food close to them, all of them will start heading to the place. If you finish your dinner and some of the food is left, put it away in the fridge or throw it away.

This way, you eliminate every possibility of leaving the potential place for them. Also, if there are any crumbs left on the counter, make sure to wipe it off and remove these.

Remove any standing water

Another thing that contributed to the overall problem is the standing water. Pests just love the standing water and once they realize t, they will colonize it, especially mosquitoes during the summer.

Home-pest-control — Pest Control On House

The standing water can be any form, from a huge pond near your house or a leakage in the basement. Also, the rain spouts, water from HVAC or leakage from the drainage should be inspected and fixed. Any type of water that stands and accumulated over time is a great place. All these have to be removed.

Keep your garden neat

Another thing that most of the people forget is a garden. When you have a bushy, overgrown and dirty garden, it will likely become colonized by the pests. They love overgrown yards that are not maintained regularly, so make sure you cut grass, throw away any items that you do not need. If you have firewood, try not to keep it close to the house. Try to make it at least 5 feet away from the walls. If possible, rack it up above the ground so these cannot get on the wood easily.

04 28 2019

Top 4 ways to pest proof your home

Joanne Platt Pest Control 0

The majority of people look forward to the warm weather. Whether you want to soak up the sun or enjoy a barbecue with your friends, when it’s warm weather, life is good. Unfortunately, with sunny days, the pests come crawling back.

Pests thrive in warm and dark places, and your home comes as the most suitable environment. For that reason, the best way to keep your house pest-free is to deny the entrance, so why not look here for more information. Pests are similar to humans; they need water, food, and shelter.

By eliminating the food source and their hiding spots, you will minimize their appearance. Use these tricks to get rid of pests completely.

Seal your doors

By keeping your doors sealed, you will keep the pests out, same like keeping the intruders outside of your property. For instance, if you examine doors, you will probably find a lot of gaps that allow pests to get in.

In some cases, you will need to replace the doors, to combat these gaps. You can always resort to automatic doors, which are an excellent solution and will help you protect your home.

On the other hand, if installing automatic doors is a significant investment for you, then the door sweep can be a great solution. You should also focus on garage doors as well, and place a seal under to prevent pests from coming in.

Make sure your windows have screens

During the warm months, people tend to leave their windows open to welcome the fresh air. However, flying insects and bugs can become a problem and invade your home. Soon you will have mosquitoes and ants crawling inside.

For that reason, it’s crucial to install screens in your windows and doors. It is recommended to use 20 mesh or smaller, to keep the insects outside. On the other hand, if you are dealing with rodents, then they can break the mesh and allow other pests to get inside.

Keep your yard tidy

A lot of pests come from your yard, especially mosquitoes. Considering they mostly breed in water, it’s essential that you eliminate any standing or pooled water. Additionally, make sure to remove all the leaves and sticks so that water can drain properly.

On top of that, mowing your lawn and cutting down vegetation you don’t need is also essential. You will eliminate the ideal environment for their breeding and habitation.

Pay attention to cracks on the exterior of your home

Any size cracks or holes outside of your property can provide an entrance for bugs and ants. In that case, you should inspect your home correctly and try to detect holes or cracks. Look near the foundation. If you want to seal these gaps, then the best way would be to remove old bricks and replace them with new ones. Additionally, fill the holes with mortar. This will seal any entrance to your home and prevent pest from crawling inside.

01 27 2019

Top five things to know about pest inspection

Joanne Platt Pest Control 0

Termites are the most destructive timber pets in the world. They can cause mora damage to properties, then any other natural disaster, such as fire, storm, or earthquake. Annually, they make billions of dollars of damage.

Nowadays, some inspection agencies will offer free termite letters with each home inspection. On the other hand, if you want to test these waters and perform a home inspection, then we have a couple of tips for you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGoiqlElNYw

Recognize termite activity

There are a couple of visible signs of termite activity. First of all, you might notice brownish tubes these pests build for protection, or sagging floors and doors, or destroyed paint and plaster.

Electrical installations and fittings are another convenient places for termite nesting. They can chew cords and cause power failures. For detailed inspection, a professional pest inspection is required.

What tools should a pest inspector have?

When inspecting a site, a pest inspector should bring a long probe, moisture meter, thermal image camera, ladder, torch, and a magnifying glass. Of course, some of them have a wide range of sophisticated equipment. It all depends on the company you hire.

What area should be inspected?

In general, all timber under the floor and roof. You shouldn’t neglect the structure outside of your house, such as garden, fences, and others timber structure on your property.

What should nest inspector look for?

When coming to inspect a site, nest inspector should look for early signs of termite infestation, for instance, termite nests, wood borers, rotten wood, and any current or previous termite activity.

However, keep in mind that pest inspection will only see the visible signs. But, anything hidden, or what lies beneath will stay unnoticed.

Type of damage

There are a couple of things you can expect with a termite infestation. It can include structural damage, like floors, floor joists, wall frames, and roof structure.

Additionally, termites don’t only focus on timber; they can also chew everything else such as furniture, fabric, and clothing.

You should pay attention to your location. In some cases, termites can come from contaminated trees and neighboring houses.

What are your options with termite infestation?

In this case, chemical treatment is the only solution. Nowadays, many companies use synthetic pyrethroids. This is a natural product, which other has a low odor, it’s non-toxic, and it’s safe for people, children, and pets.

With this product, you don’t have to empty your empty your cupboards because it will dry within an hour and doesn’t leave stains. On the other hand, if the floor is concrete, then you need to drill holes 30cm apart, around the slab. This will help you inject the poison and eliminate the nest.

How much does it cost?

When it comes to expenses, it all depends on the property size. But, some average price would be between $300-$500. However, before you hire a company, make sure to get a quote, and later compare the prices and services.

08 28 2018

Four ways to remove insects from your home

Joanne Platt Pest Control 0

In most cases, pests and bugs are homeowner’s worst nightmare. We all find the repulsive, and they are usually challenging to get rid of. However, there are proven methods which can help you prevent, discourage and treat the home infestation and they don’t involve spraying toxic chemicals.

Even though they are effective against home invaders, artificial pest repellants and be dangerous and in some cases lethal when accidentally touched or inhaled. They can affect your respiratory system, disturb hormones and in even cause cancer.

The excellent thing about these is natural alternatives that can help you fix this entire situation, and we are going to show you which one to use.

Ants

There isn’t a homeowner who didn’t have experience with ants. They can be persistent, tedious, and in most cases invasive. Depending on the type of ants, they usually appear in early spring or autumn. In that case, you use traditional solutions to get rid of them as soon as possible.

But, there are natural ingredients that can help you with this problem. For instance, you can use lemon juice, cinnamon, and peppermint to remove ants from your home and keep them from invading your space.

Houseflies

During summer, every home has troubles with keeping the houseflies away. They love warm weather, and they are attracted to food. But instead of using dangerous sprays, you can try flypaper, flytraps, and pest control lights.

All these solutions are pretty harmless to our health, and you won’t be inhaling toxic chemicals. Also, make sure to remove all food and sugary items because they feed on this.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches can be found anywhere in the world, especially in densely populated cities. They are attracted to warm and humid areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Cockroaches will eat pretty much everything, so keeping the out of your home can be a challenge.

Cockroaches

But, there is one thing they hate, and that’s boric acid. You can apply the thin lines of borax on the perimeters of the room and in existing cracks. This will make them stop invading your home.

Fleas

Anyone who has pets is familiar with these insects. We often use various solutions on our cats and dogs but want can you when fleas enter your home. They can get into your carpet, bed and even beneath your clothes.

In this case, you should consider boric acid, diatomaceous earth or flea traps.

07 12 2018

How to know when to call pest control

Joanne Platt Pest Control When to call pest control 0

A lot depends on your ability to see the warning signs in your home that clearly tell that you need pest control services. By knowing to tell when it is time to call the professional service, you prevent any further damaging of your home but health as well. It is always best to leave such things in professional and most capable hands but if you take some of the precautions and take care of your home, you might be able to avoid costly interventions.

If you regularly clean your house and maintain proper sanitary conditions, you reduce a chance of getting your home pest infested. Still, if the problem occurs or you suspect of pest infestation, here is how you can make sure that you really have a problem.

The clear signs

Call pest control If you have noticed lately that your wiring has been chewed upon and you have small holes in your walls or you noticed some small damage in your walls, clothing, rugs and furniture, those are all evident signs of pest problems. Rodents are known to gnaw at your wires which can cause serious fires. Other pests like termites can cost you your entire house.

Now, if you noticed the smell of urine or if you keep seeing strange droppings every time you enter your pantry or kitchen, you probably have rats or mice. Both urine and droppings might endanger your health and rodents are known as disease carriers so the intervention is paramount. Sometimes, pest problems can be caused by rodents much bigger than rats or mice.

Squirrels tend to drift away into people’s homes and when they get closed in they get frightened and might cause significant damage not only to your home but to you or anyone else that might come in contact with it. Just like rats, squirrels also carry various diseases even though they are a lot cuter than rats. The best thing to do if you see a squirrel or even a racoon in your home is to call pest control service and let them handle it.

07 07 2018

How to get rid of termites in your house

Joanne Platt Pest Control Termites 0

Termites are known pests that eat away at your wooden structures and they can destroy entire houses if you give them enough time. A good thing is that they can be easily disposed of. All you need to know is how to do it in order to make sure that you remove them completely. Sometimes, people think they managed to kill them all but some are left in the nest and, in time, they simply come back and you need to do it all over again. Well, here are a few tips on what you can do to naturally kill them.

These methods are very effective and you will learn how to get rid of them but, most importantly, how to recognize signs of termites and prevent them to cause a much bigger damage. Many experts and other pest control specialists agree that termites are among the most dangerous pests. The thing with termites is that it takes time to notice them. Sometimes, it takes years before you notice that you are having a pest problem but by the time you found out about it, it is already too late.

Chemistry is your friend here

Arsenic Arsenic and Permethrin dust are two chemicals that give almost immediate results. Permethrin is a powerful insecticide and its effect lasts for a long time. It is the most popular chemical that almost all pest control professionals use. On the other hand, arsenic dust is just as efficient. The thing with arsenic is its cannibalistic nature. Once a termite comes in contact with it, they die almost instantly. Since termites tend to eat their dead, the entire colony will slowly die off.

Now, termites can’t stand low temperatures so if you have liquid nitrogen, you will easily terminate them all. Just make sure that you don’t get in a direct contact with liquid nitrogen cause the consequences could be devastating. Finally, one of the most effective ways to kill them all is by flooding the area they inhabit. That is the most natural way to kill every last one of them.

07 02 2018

Things to do before pest control treatment

Joanne Platt Pest Control Pest control treatment 0

When you find yourself in need of a pest control treatment, there are a few things you need to do before the pest control team comes to do their thing. Pests such as insects, spiders, rats, mice, flies, mosquitoes and cockroaches are disease carriers and they can cause serious damage to your home but to your health as well. When you need to get rid of them, the best thing to do is to call pest control service that has the proper and specialised equipment for such situations.

The most important thing is to do it properly in order to make sure that the pests don’t come back. So, before the service does their thing, you need to do your part as well. By doing some of the necessary preparations, you are making things easier on them but you are also protecting your things, possessions and resources. The best example would be the storing of your paraphernalia. You can give your contribution and do your part by properly storing your furniture, clothing and food. You will release the space that is necessary for the pest control team to access the infested area and do their thing. That leads us to the first thing to do before pest control crew comes.

Remove all things to give them space

Pest control treatment You need to give them space and allow them to access the infected area. The best thing to do is to remove any piece of appliance or furniture that might be in their way, especially the ones in the corners of your home. By doing so, you are keeping your furniture and other appliances safe from any chemical spray and spills that might occur during the treatment. That is why many pest control companies recommend cleaning the house before they come.

Next thing would be to remove all the clothes as well as any toiletries, jewellery, makeup and toys if you have children. Also, you need to remove all mattresses, pillows, cushions, covers and bed sheets. Cover your tables, chairs and sofas. It is the best to use plastic wrappings. If you have any decorative vegetation, take it in the open because of the chemicals, the same goes for your pets. You need to make sure that their beddings and other premises are covered and sealed tightly. Plastic is the best material for such occasions.

06 28 2018

The most effective ways to keep rodent pests from your home

Joanne Platt Pest Control Rodent pests 0

Some people find them to be cute and adorable, some can’t stand them but the truth is, the rodents, especially mice and rats are the arch enemy of your household and they will wreak havoc on everything you have. Fortunately for you, there is no need for alarm or calling the pest control service because there are things that you can do to prevent pest infestation in your home.

Of course, if things get out of your hands, we strongly advise you to give us a call and let the professional experts, trained and specialized in pest control to take care of your problem. Before things get so far and serious, here are a few tips that you can apply in order to make sure that these nasty rodents don’t invade your home. It is important to keep them away because rodents cause health issues and material damage.

They can create or inflame allergies, spread disease, spoil and contaminate food and other similar resources and destroy your home making it unfit to live in. By keeping them away from your home, you are taking care not only of your entire household but of your health and overall well-being. Now, before you approach this problem seriously, the first thing you need to do is pinpoint any potential and possible entry points that rodents might use to invade your home.

Once you locate all points, make sure that you seal them. Rats and mice love dirt and moisture so you will manage to keep them away from your home if you regularly clean it and maintain proper sanitary and hygiene conditions.

Start with the basement

Rodent pests Now, start with your basement because that is the most common place where they tend to build their nests. Inspect the foundation of your home in order to discover any gaps or holes. Block all holes you find, no matter how small they tend to appear to you. Use black foam or a wire mesh. Once you rodent proof those gaps, do another check for entry points, especially windows and doors. Make sure that you can properly close all windows and doors without leaving any gaps or cracks.

Inspect your roof and make sure that you examine it really well especially the area around chimneys, shingles and ventilators. If you find any gaps, fill them in immediately. Any wire or pipe lines that enter your home can be considered a possible way in for rodent pests. There are special metal guards for rodents that will protect any pipe or wire lines from rodents.

Keep all the aforementioned areas clean at all times because rodents don’t like neat and clean places and they will avoid inhabiting such places. It is important that you avoid clutter. Never pile up things because rodents love to make a home in clutter. Finally, keep your garbage sealed in special bags because rodents feed on the food remains. This should help you to get rid of pests.

06 23 2018

The most effective pest control methods to protect your home

Joanne Platt Home Restoration, Pest Control Pest control methods 0

When you have pest problems, you call pest control company to deal with it. As simple as that. The thing is that these interventions can be expensive, depending on your situation and the amount of work needed. In most cases, if the damage is really severe, you will be required to even move until the job is done. So, you need to spend time, money and effort to take care of your pest problem.

Well, there are other ways how you can protect your home from a potential pest infestation. It takes time to prepare yourself as such protection requires a serious approach but once you do all that work, you will be protected for a longer period of time which means that you can relax. Here is some useful advice about the most effective pest control methods that will help you to protect your home.

First of all, you need to make sure that your home is clean at all times. This goes for both interior and exterior. Make sure that all low traffic and dark areas such as attics, crawl spaces and closets are in order and clean at all times. Food leftovers and mess are like a natural habitat for pests so the less you leave behind, the fewer pest problems you will have.

The most common types of pests

Types of pests Now, in case that you store pliable and dry materials like old boxes or cardboard, you should know that these materials are simply perfect for rodents and mice. They seek such materials to build their nests and burrow in. Sealing any potential entry points and reducing moisture to a minimum will surely prevent some of the common pest issues. Keeping your home clean at all times and free of clutter is crucial to protecting your home from pest infestation.

Now, you need to know the types of pests in order to be able to effectively fight them. So, your method of most effective and efficient pest control needs to be adjusted to the type of pest you want to exterminate. Rodents and insects are the most common types of pests that might attack your home and they come with certain seasons. So, winter brings all sorts of rodents such as rats and mice but all other pests that are seeking warm places and shelter from the cold. Fall brings stink bugs, squirrels, mice and crickets.

There are three things that all pests need and those are water, shelter and food. Deprive them of those things and you will never have pest problems. A good thing is that it takes time for a serious damage to occur so make sure that you regularly check all of your premises.