Pest Control Services During COVID19
With the recent COVID19 outbreak in America, non-essential businesses have closed throughout Massachusetts as per a recent message from Governor Charlie Baker. A large majority of the workforce is working from home. During this extended time at home, pest control services are an important consideration every homeowner and business owner should think about.
Pest Control For Closing Businesses
When a building is uninhabited for an extended duration of time (i.e. vacation or a seasonal business closing) there can be issues with pests. Both rodents and insects are more likely to infest an unoccupied building compared to an occupied one. If you are switching to a work from home schedule and will be leaving your office building unattended consider hiring a pest control service to make routine checks or to provide preventative maintenance tips. This is especially true for restaurants and other food services. With so many restaurants closing throughout Boston and Massachusetts, it is important to take time to secure all non-perishable foods and properly dispose of perishable foods. The team at Absolut Pest Control can help make recommendations to shore up your security while you are gone. We provide preventative pest control services where we will inspect a building for any potential weaknesses that may lead to pest problems in the future.
Pest Control For Work From Home Families
As more and more workers adjust to work from home life, it becomes more important to make sure that you take proper pest control precautions. Spring is upon us, and like many seasonal changes, this brings unique pest problems. Beehives, wasps, yellow jackets, mosquitos, and other pests will become more prevalent. Many homeowners will also have to deal with nesting birds or rodents around their property. If you need pest control services, the team at Absolut Pest Control can help. Our team of licensed pest control professionals can provide you with pest solutions and help remove any hives or nests from the outside of your property. Just give us a call, and a member of our team can help.
Questions? Send us a message!
During this COVID19 outbreak, we are getting many questions from homeowners about our pest control services. If you have a question about any of our pest control solutions, send us a message. We would love to help you with any pest problem you are having on your property. We also offer general pest inspections for apartment buildings and office buildings that may need extra protection this season.
Should Small Businesses & Property Managers Hire Routine Pest Control
Whether you rent an apartment, own a home, or work in a business, mice are not a problem you want to have. Mice can spread disease as well as leave dropping and ruin your property. For many buildings in New England, it is common to have yearly mouse problems. And although there are many trap options including humane traps and extermination traps, sometimes they just don’t work. You may have considered pest control, but many business owners and apartment renters are not sure if they should hire a pest control service. If mice and rodents continue to be a problem, you may want to consider working with a reputable pest control expert that can get rid of your problem effectively.
Should You Hire Pest Control If You Rent?
If you rent a condo or an apartment, you may not need to hire pest control in the event of a rat or mouse roaming your home. Many realty groups have pest control teams on file that service their buildings. Talk to your realtor about pest control, if they have a recommendation it may come at no charge to you, or at a discounted rate. Otherwise, do research on local pest control teams and see if there is one that offers property management services, you may be able to get a deal from a pest control professional that can check your entire building multiple times a year. One issue for renters is that even in their unit is spotless and clean, other units may be inviting pests due to their uncleanliness or points of access. That is why it is important that a pest control team have access to all units on a property, especially basements and common areas.
Should You Hire Pest Control If You Own A Small Business?
Small businesses should definitely hire pest control for routine service. Unlike a home, a small business’s reputation is on the line if a customer notices a pest. This is especially true for restaurants, but even retail and other industries can suffer from a pest sighting in their building. Working with a pest control team means knowing that pests can be dealt with seasonally before they can become a problem. Although it may be fine for a private home to rely on traps, businesses cannot wait for ineffective traps.
Contact Absolut Pest Control
Does your business or property need routine pest control or a single pest control service? Give us a call, we would be happy to offer a quote.
Pest Control Tips For Mice and Rodents This Fall
It’s fall, which means the return of pumpkin-spiced everything, raking leaves, and Halloween. Many families and businesses will decorate their homes and offices with fake spiders, rats, and other scary animals. And as long as they are plastic, they are fine. But if you notice pests that aren’t decorations or pets in your home, you are going to want to get rid of them. Fall is a key point in pest control because it is around this time that large pests like rodents try to move into homes for shelter. Rodents carry disease and can destroy your property which is why homeowners and business owners are so passionate about getting rid of them. Here are a few tips to keep rodents out of your home this fall.
Take Preventative Actions for Rodent Control
The first thing you should do is take preventative action. When you have a weekend of a few days to work on your home, you will want to inspect the home both inside and out to find entrances for rodents. Check around windows and doors for any gaps. Use weatherstripping to cover these areas. Next, you will want to inspect the area around your siding. If you have vinyl siding or wood siding you need to check for cracks and other damage that may have been caused due to high winds and storms. You will need to seal any cracks with caulk to minimize entry points for pests. Not only will this protect your home from rodents, but it will also protect your home from insects and will decrease your heating bill by stopping warm air from escaping.
Know The Signs of Mice & Rats
If rodents enter your home you will want to know it right away before they cause extensive damage. There are many signs of rodents you may notice before you actually see one run across the floor. Be on the lookout for mouse droppings, gnawed holes, shredded paper, or sounds of mice in the walls and ceiling. If you think you have a rodent in your home, the next step is to either get traps or hire a pest control expert.
Should You Get Pest Control or Traps?
Although traps are often less expensive than hiring pest control, any homeowner or business owner knows that not all traps work. Traps that used to work can also fail to work in the future as rodents adapt over time. If your traps aren’t working, the best way to get rid of a rodent problem is to hire the professionals.
Contact Absolut Pest Control
If you need pest control services, you need to call Absolute Pest Control. Our team works throughout Massachusetts to provide pest control solutions to commercial and residential clients. Contact us online to set up an appointment.
What You Need To Know About Pest Control Before Buying A Home
Buying a home can be a fun and also stressful process. On the one hand, shopping for a new home is something many couples and families look forward to doing. On the other hand, there are so many things to consider, and so many things you wished you considered after the fact. One thing that many prospective homeowners don’t think about in advance is pest control.
How Do You Know If A Property Needs Termite Control?
The most egregious problem for new homeowners is existing termites. Termites cause terrible property damage that can become a danger to homeowners. Termites often destroy the structural integrity of a home over time, which is why they need to be dealt with quickly. Always request a WDO (wood destroying organism) inspection before signing on to a new home. A proper inspection from an unbiased third-party can ensure that your home is safe from pests. A WDO should only be handled by a licensed pest control professional. Short of ordering an inspection, you can always be on the lookout for visual signs of termites. Gnawed wood, discarded wings, termite feces, and hollow wood are all examples of a termite infestation.
Is Your Home Susceptible to Rodent Infestation?
Older homes are often plagued by rodent problems. Mice, rats, voles, and even squirrels can take up residence in your new home if there are unchecked entry points. Either a third party contractor or pest control specialist can check your property for entryways for rodents. These are easier to spot than the signs of a termite infestation. Of course, be on the lookout for obvious signs like mousetraps, fecal matter, and cracks/holes near the baseboards of the property.
Other Pest Concerns
Rodents and termites aren’t the only pest problem you should be on the lookout for before buying a new home. Make sure to do a visual inspection on the outside of your property for bee and wasp nests. Nests are often located in crevices and corners of roofing and windows. Check windowsills to make sure that there are no gaps for mosquitoes and other insects to crawl in through. This is especially important for kitchen windows. Check the basement and bathrooms for moisture. Excess moisture can become a breeding ground for many different insects.
Contact Absolut Pest Control
If you live in the Massachusetts area and are either looking to buy a new home or are already in your new home, hire a specialist from Absolut Pest Control to help get rid of pests and run inspections. Contact a member of our team today.
3 Different Methods To Get Rid Of Rodents
It starts with the sounds of scuttering feet in the walls and ceiling. And a black or brown blur of speed across the floor when you go to the bathroom at night. Suddenly, it isn’t a question of “if you have mice,” but “how many mice are there,” and “can mice climb into beds”? (Yes, yes they can). Now you have mice in your apartment, eating your food, trashing your furniture, and not paying rent. The most important question becomes “how do you get rid of the mice”? There are thousands of traps, superstitions, old wive’s tales, and “how to get rid of mice” blogs on the internet (including this one).
All-Natural & Humane Methods
The myth that the only way to take care of pests is to exterminate them is very pervasive. In reality, a lot of humane methods can be effective for small pest control jobs. If you are trying to persuade one or two mice to try the apartment down the street instead, there are a few ways you can accomplish this. If you want to pursue the humane method, start by being proactive. Limit entry points by block holes, keep your food stored in airtight containers, and use natural repellents to keep away mice. Peppermint has been found to be the most effective scent deterrent.
If you already have a mouse, do your research on non-lethal traps. There are many reasons to avoid using rat poison beyond just wanting to be humane, especially if you have pets and children. Look for traps that provide minimal harm to mice and make sure to check your traps regularly to avoid starving a mouse to death.
Traditional Traps
Of course, you may decide to use more traditional traps. In some cases, there are mouse traps that are designed to kill a mouse while minimizing potential suffering. Depending on your conscious, it might be worth investing in these traps. Cats provide a natural deterrent to mice, both because their natural smell is something rodents have evolved to fear, and because cats have a natural ability to dispose of mice (although don’t be surprised if your cat parades around their kill like a trophy).
When to Hire a Professional
In fairness, we are a bit biased here (this a professional pest control blog after all). But seriously, there are two times you absolutely need to call professional help. First, if nothing else is working and you have tried all the DIY methods. Second, if the word infestation is the best description of your situation. Whether your home or property needs to be fumigated or there is a single rodent that is the bane of your existence, it helps to get professionals involved. Not only can professional pest controllers remove mice, rats, bats, and other problematic pests, professionals can find and assess root problems. Pest controllers can give professional recommendations on how to keep pests out. From better food storage to needed construction to limit entry points.
If you have a mouse or other pest control problem, call us at Absolut Pest Control. We also provide evaluations of your property to help prevent any future infestations.
Ward Off Pests with Some Spring Cleaning Tips
While spring has technically arrived, the weather is still quite wintery. But, the weather conditions will soon improve and that means we’re getting ever closer to the big spring clean up once winter makes its full exit. While some may roll their eyes or groan about spring cleaning, it doesn’t change the fact that it’s highly effective. After all, winter can be a brutal season, especially on the east coast. Taking stock of your home in the spring can help you spot areas in dire need of attention, areas that if left ignored could allow pests into your home. If you want to maintain a pest free home this spring, give the following areas of your home some love during spring clean-up
Bathroom
One should not have to worry about pests in their bathroom, period. But, if you have moisture issues in your bathroom, you may encounter silverfish or cockroaches, both spring pests, during your morning shower. Since both pests are attracted to moisture, be sure to eliminate open sources of water in the bathroom. Be sure to clean out your medicine cabinet, inspect the bathroom for any leaking moisture from pipes or faucets, and wash your shower curtain and liner.
Kitchen
Nicer weather brings the ants right on out. The first place they’re likely going to invade if they get into your home is your kitchen since it provides ample access to both food and water sources. They will crawl throughout your kitchen in search of crumbs, residue from liquid spills, and overripe fruit left sitting out on the counter. Keeping a consistently clean kitchen is tantamount to keeping pests at a minimum, but there are a few more things you can do to help. Clean out your cabinets and remove old food items, like spices and flour. Those ingredients can attract beetles and ants. Once you’ve cleaned out your cabinets, wipe down the insides for good measure. You can also pull out your appliances and clean behind them, as you’d be amazed at how much is actually back there. Giving your kitchen a good scrub down isn’t a bad idea, either.
Basement
Your basement can be a popular place for spiders and rodents to camp out in, especially because there are corners and clutter they can hide amongst. Going through items in your basement and getting rid of things you don’t need can negate this, as it will provide fewer hiding places. When storing items, don’t use cardboard boxes because they can wear down over time and allow pests access to their contents. Instead, use sturdy plastic bins with secure lids. If you happen to notice any cracks or crevices that give you pause, seal them up with caulk to provide pests with one less access area to your home. You’d be surprised at just how small an opening has to be for critters to get through.
Spring cleaning shouldn’t just be a quick clean up. Spring cleaning doesn’t only get your house ready for spring either, but for summer too. By giving your home a solid inspection, particularly in the areas listed above, you’ll be ensuring strong pest protection for months to come. If you begin experiencing a persistent issue, please get in touch with us. You can reach us at 978-388-4589 or by filling out an online contact form.
Tips for Keeping Rodents Out of your Car
If you live in a highly urban area, it is likely you’ve seen a mouse or rat running around most every night. This rings especially true if you travel through alleyways, or park your car in one. In most cases, they’re harmless and will run away at the sound and/or sight of you. However, your car doesn’t scare them as much as you do. It sits idly by as rodents gather underneath it, or, sadly enough, climb up within your vehicle. You don’t have to live in an urban area for this to occur, either. If there is a nest of mice in a bush near your house or driveway, they can very easily find their way to your car. Not only can these critters inflict severe damage to the innards of your automobile by chewing through wires, but they can also choose to set up shop there too. We’re here to provide some tips on how to keep that from happening.
- Use Repellent
There are things you likely have in your home or apartment that can help deter rodents from taking up residence in your car, and you might not even realize it. Due to their keen sense of smell, things such as soap or dryer sheets can be utilized to keep them away. When it comes to soap, you can rub it along possible entry areas or attach bits of soap with wire to places where the vehicle does not get hot. The same goes with dryer sheets. Wrapping them in places where it is safe to do so will help keep your car rodent free. Chemical repellents can be used as well, and these come in sprays or granules from a variety of brands. The thing to be wary of with soap and dryer sheets is that these items eventually wear down and lose their scent, so it is important to stay on top of their application.
- Clean Up the Area
Do your best to keep the area both near and inside your vehicle free of food sources. If you store dog food or emergency meals in your garage, these items can attract rodents to the area. It’s convenient having a snack in your car too, but having food sources inside of your vehicle will not help your plight. If you do want to keep these items in, or around, your car, be sure to store them in sturdy, mouse-proof containers. If you live in the city, however, and park near one, or several, dumpsters, there isn’t much you can do about keeping active food sources away from critters. Which introduces our next point…
- Traps
This one is as old as the night is young. Traps have been used for more than a century to rid people of their rodent woes, and these days are no different. There are larger box traps that capture more than one mouse or rat at a time that can be set out, in addition to sticky traps and snap traps. These traps provide physical evidence of their effectiveness, so if you don’t want to see a dead rodent then this method is likely not for you. For snap traps and sticky traps, place them at the top of your tires, as this is a common entry point. Box traps can be placed in the vicinity of your automobile, especially if you live in an urban area. Those who park near you might just thank you for setting out box traps too, as they are likely experiencing the same issues. Keep in mind that humane traps also exist, which provides a friendly alternative to those who would rather not have the little guys killed.
While these methods will not prove 100% effective in all cases, they can save you from having to deal with the hassle of getting your car repaired because rodents decided to munch on the wires of your sedan. The most important tip is to stay on top of all of these methods so that they can be as impactful as possible. However, if you find your rodent problem is getting incredibly out of hand, be sure to call us at 978.388.4589. We’ll help you out in the best way we know how!
Preventing Mice Infestations
Mice in The Home
When the temperature outside begins to drop in the fall, infestations of rodents and mice tend to begin. If you hear noises in the walls or spot rodent droppings on the floor, this could mean that you a mouse infestation. Due to how small mice are, they can easily get into homes by entering through cracks, holes, floors, and foundations. Check out some helpful tips to make sure mice don’t ruin your home for the holidays.
- To prevent mice from coming into your home all cr
acks, openings and holes should be sealed properly. - If you spot mice in your home, one of the first steps you can do is setting up mousetraps. Using a mousetrap is a safe and efficient way because they will kill them instead of poisoning it.
- Go through the house and remove clutter areas like piles of clothing or old cardboard boxes that could make it easy for mice to build a nest.
- Your house should always be clean and tidy, make sure you are washing the floors and vacuuming the carpets to avoid food from collecting and attracting mice.
The most efficient method of removing mice from homes is by contact a trained pest control professional. If you notice mice lurking around your home, contact Absolut Pest Control today at 978.388.4589 or fill out our contact form online.
Common Pest You’ll Find Around Your Home This Fall
As the temperature, outside slowly starts to drop, you should be prepared for the upcoming winter by making sure that your home is pest-free. Here are a few of the pests you might see lurking around your home this fall.
- Rodents: Common home intruders that you might see around this fall are mice and rats. Mice and rats can spread diseases and chew through your home wiring causing serious damage. It’s important to make sure you keep all the doors shut and look for any small openings where rodents can sneak in.
- Bedbugs: Bed bugs are typically found in mattresses, suitcases, boxes and shoes around the home. These are tiny bugs that are difficult to spot, so you may have to find them by using a flashlight and looking for them along the seams of furniture and mattresses.
- Stinkbugs: As the weather outside gets colder, it’s common to find Stink Bugs congregating on the warmer sides of homes. While stink bugs don’t spread diseases, these pests can damage clothing and furniture with their droppings and odor. Properly named, when these bugs are squashed or disturbed they release a disturbing odor.
- Spiders: Even though they are not necessarily dangerous, spiders can be a nuisance around your household. Spider usually make their way into homes through either the garage and attic, as well as the windows and doorways.
If you notice any of these pests around your home, contact Absolut Pest Control today at 978-388-4589 or fill out our contact form for more information!
Winter Months Mouse Control Exterminator Amesbury MA Boston
As the temperatures begin to drop, the cold weather begins to force unwanted rodents indoors. The problems that many people in the Northeast tend to run into are the smaller, cuter mice that can sneak through the tiniest of cracks and intrude your home. The last thing you want is a tiny scurrying mouse running across your dining room floor as your family sits down for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
One reason mice pare a tough pest control problem is because of their small size. All they need is a quarter-inch gap to gain entry into your home and require only miniscule amounts of food and water to survive. As a result, mouse infestations are much more common and difficult to control than rat infestations. Mice infestations are also every bit as hazardous to health and property. Mice eat and contaminate human and pet foods, preferring grains but apparently willing to nibble on almost anything, including your valuables or memory-filled photo albums.
Mark sure that your house is secure before the temperatures begin to plummet and force the mine inside. Call Absolut Pest Control today to come take a look at your home or business and find the areas in your house that are vulnerable.