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.
2019 Guide on How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes
There are over three thousand different species of mosquitoes, and none of them are likable. As soon as spring begins, mosquito season starts. Aside from the annoying buzzing and the biting, mosquitoes can carry terrible diseases like West Nile virus and Zika. Massachusettes is expected to see a large increase in the mosquito population in 2019. And there are almost as many reasons to get rid of mosquitoes as there will be mosquitoes. That is why we have created this guide on dealing with mosquitoes.
Remove Standing Water
April showers may bring May flowers, but they also leave a lot of standing water on your property. Survey your land after a rainstorm to make sure there are no puddles of standing water. Check your gutters, check coiled hoses, buckets, tires, pool covers and even trenches in your yard. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Light landscaping work can help flatten your land to avoid pooling when it rains. The best time to deal with standing water is in April and May, but you will want to deal with standing water as often as possible throughout the summer. Once the ground has defrosted and temperatures are consistently hitting the 50s and 60s, mosquitoes will breed.
Invest in Mosquito Repellant & Outdoor Netting
No summer is complete without enjoying a few BBQ’s on the back deck or in your backyard. However, as any homeowner can attest, mosquitoes can become a real issue around sunset. There are many mosquito repellants on the market. There are even all natural and essential oil options in the market for families that prefer to avoid abrasive chemicals. Depending on where you live, you may even want to invest in bug netting around your backyard or back deck to protect yourself from the pests. Mosquito repellant candles and sprays can temporarily keep mosquitoes away, but for long term results, you should consider a stronger method.
Hire Pest Control
Pest control is not just for dealing with rodents & indoor insects. A pest control service can employ many different methods to destroy mosquito nests and keep your property clear. If you have an infestation near your home because your neighbors didn’t deal with standing water, or you live close to a pond, consider hiring a professional pest control service to use broadcast treatments like a mosquito fogger. Pest control services have access to heavy-duty insecticides that can deal with mosquitoes much more effectively than store brands.
If you live in Massachusettes and hate mosquitoes, call Absolut Pest Control to deal with them professionally. We had a very rainy season for the last six weeks, and there is an expectant surge for mosquito population coming this year. Contact us, and we will professionally deal with them on your property.
The Importance of Environmentally Friendly Bee Removal
It is officially spring, and as the saying goes April showers bring May flowers. And those flowers bring swarms of bees, and other insects as we enter into the warmer seasons. You probably have heard about the decreasing number of honey bees on the news and its negative impact on the environment. That said, bees still pose a very real threat to adults and children who have severe allergies to bee stings. That is why bee removal needs to be handled carefully.
How Bees Impact Our Ecosystem in Massachusetts
The common honey bee has a profound impact on our environment. Bees are almost as important to America’s food production as farmers are. As the main source of pollination, most of the fruits and vegetables that we eat is a direct result of the work on honey bees. Honey bees provide one of the most vital services for plant growth, which is why their numbers dwindling is a real concern for American agriculture and the American economy.
How Not To Remove of Bees
Although the bee population is dwindling, many pest control companies still use lethal methods for dealing with bees. Even most DIY pest control methods involving using harsh chemical sprays to kill or destroy bees and their hives. So far 1 out of every 4 wild bee species has been placed on the endangered species list, and that number is steadily growing. That is why it is important for us to find environmentally conscious ways to deal with bees and other insects.
Environmentally Friendly Ways To Remove Bees & Beehives
If you want to find DIY methods for bee removal there are a few worth trying. Although your safest bet is to work with a pest control company that is experienced in environmentally friendly bee removal. This is especially true if you are allergic. To remove bees in an environmentally conscious way you can try smoking the bees out by lighting paper underneath the hive. Constant smoke near the hive is enough for bees to relocate. However, they may relocate to somewhere nearby on the property.
Bee, Wasp, & Yellowjacket Control In Massachusetts
At Absolut Pest Control we do our best to preserve bee habitats while also getting them off your property. We have special tools and methods to move the hive without damaging it to a safer and more natural location. Although in some cases destroying the hive is necessary, we do our best to get rid of bees with the least amount of damage possible. If you have a bee problem, call us to have it handled professionally. We also offer other pest solutions for the Massachusetts area.
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.
Spring Cleaning & Pest Control
With Spring just around the corner, many homeowners are probably thinking about spring cleaning. Whether you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen or just cleaning your carpets, one thing you might not be thinking is about is pests. Spring brings an onslaught of pest problems. When it comes to pests, the best solution to prevent them. Here are a few ways you can preemptively avoid pests this Spring.
Clean Loose Crumbs:
Early spring is the best time to break out the vacuum and do a clean sweep of your home. With the increase with the insect population, keeping a clean home discourage ants and termites from starting colonies in your home. Package all dry foods in airtight containers and make sure your furniture is properly vacuumed under and around to combat super bowl food messes.
Drain Standing Water:
Make sure to drain puddles around your property caused by melted snow. Warm pools of water in the spring and summer can become a breeding area for insects and pests. Clear out birdbaths, flip over tires, & check your trash bins for excess water. Clear your gutters. Snow can often carry debris that blocks gutters and stops them from draining properly.
Check Your Walls & Pipes:
Frozen damaged pipes can cause leaks in the spring. Not only is this bad for your utility bill, but puddles of water around leaking pipes also invite mosquitos, termites, & ants. Whether you are a DIY plumber or have a professional plumber make sure to look for leaks in early spring. Check your basement for puddles and attics for excess moisture.
Hire Professionally:
The best way to ensure that your home will be pest free is to have a professional periodically go over the premises. Consider hiring an exterminator to inspect your home for unsealed cracks/holes and give other recommendations. Professional home inspectors can check windows, door frames, and the perimeter of your home for hidden entry points that might be causing your pest problem. It is never too early to call pest control, if you see a small number of insects today, it could be an entire colony next week.
At Absolut Pest Control we specialize in ant control, bat control, & rodent control. We service Massachusetts and New Hampshire, with expert pest removal and extermination. If you have a pest problem or questions about pest prevention contact us at 978-388-4589.
How to Keep Pests Out of an Apartment
If you are an apartment resident, you know the importance of making your space truly feel like a home. Your sanctuary, however, can be interrupted with the arrival of pests, such as ants, mice, or roaches. Whether you are currently dealing with some type of insect or vermin infestation or you just want to avoid one in the future, you will benefit from reading this guide. The next section showcases several great tips that will help you prevent pests in your apartment home.
Keep your kitchen area very clean
Food particles are one of the main things pests are attracted to. Even dirty dishes left in the sink overnight or crumbs that fall onto the counter can lead to a pest problem. The cleaner you keep your kitchen, the less likely you are to have a rodent or insect infestation. Make sure you always do your dishes (or load your dishwasher) before you go to bed, wipe down countertops, and clean any spills immediately. This will go a long way toward preventing pests.
Eliminate clutter
Because apartment units are generally smaller than single-family homes, it tends to be easier for clutter to amass on tabletops and in closets, simply because there is nowhere else for it to go. In order to avoid pests, however, you need to eliminate clutter from your living area. Stacks of papers, piles of clothes, and even bunched up linens can all serve as nests for mice and bugs. The more organized you keep your apartment, the less likely it is that you will ever experience a pest problem.
Be aware of common hallways
Because the hallway outside of your apartment door is a common space, it’s important to pay attention to how clean it is kept. If, for example, you notice that someone in your hall regularly leaves bags of trash outside the door before taking them outside to the dumpster, you might want to speak to management. Things like this can ultimately lead to pest problems for everyone who resides in the immediate vicinity.
Use bug spray
This tip is especially important if you live on the ground floor of your apartment building. Periodically, spray the bug spray of your choice (there are many non-toxic choices available now) along your baseboards, around your windows, and under your doors. This is a good way to prevent unwanted pests from entering your home.
Contact Absolut Pest control today!
If you already have a pest problem, call your apartment’s management office first to find out if they will take care of the issue. If you are on your own, give a reliable pest prevention company a call.
Winter Wasp Warning Signs
Although many people think of wasps as a warm weather problem, they can actually show-up inside your home during the winter months as well. A specific wasp species, called the paper wasp, is especially notorious for this. Female paper wasps are particularly good at entering attics and other warm, dark interior areas through even the tiniest openings to the outdoors. If you are afraid you currently have a winter wasp infestation or if you just want to prevent one in the coming years, the following tips should help you be prepared.
You Notice Wasp Nests
Paper wasps make open-comb nests that resemble upside-down umbrellas. If you begin seeing these anywhere in your house, such as the attic or a closet, you can be fairly certain that you’re dealing with a wintertime wasp infestation.
You See One or More Wasps
The most obvious sign that you are dealing with winter wasps is seeing at least one in your home. Paper wasps go into what is close to a hibernation state during the coldest months of the year, so they may appear to be dead. Because they are actually still alive, though, you should take care if you decide to touch them. Furthermore, if your area experiences a warm snap during the winter, the wasps may wake up and begin flying around your home.
At this point, you’re probably wondering what you can do to prevent wasps from infesting your house not only in the winter, but any other time of year! Fortunately, there are several steps you can take with the help of a professional pest control company. Some of the options that are likely to be presented to you are outlined below.
Preventative Action
The best way to get avoid wasps is to take preventative measures that will keep them from getting into your home in the first place. Qualified pest control experts like those at Absolut Pest Control will be able to take stock of your home and figure out where these insects are most likely to enter, then seal the holes appropriately. You may also want to hire the experts at Absolut Pest Control to address wasps periodically throughout the year.
Getting Rid of Existing Wasps
If you already have a wintertime wasp infestation, Absolute Control’s team of trained experts will know how to help you eliminate them as well. There are likely to be several options, including chemical sprays in your attic, that will eradicate any living paper wasps. If anyone in your household has allergies, you may want to stay in a hotel or at a relative’s home during the treatment.
Remember, winter wasps aren’t something you have to live with! Our skilled professionals will be able to help you get rid of these pests before they do any damage to your home or sting a member of your family. Wasp stings can be serious, particularly for people with allergies, so getting rid of these insects as quickly as possible is of the essence. Contact us today for more information about us and our available services!
Common Winter Pests
As wintertime approaches, all of the pests that made their home in your backyard or neighborhood all spring, summer, and fall will be looking for someplace warmer to go. If you aren’t careful, that could be your home! Check out our list to learn about the most common wintertime pests, and why it’s important to deal with them sooner than later!
Birds/Bats
Any homeowner with a chimney can attest to this; if you don’t put a chimney cap on it, you will most certainly have a bat or bird in the house at some point. Bats and birds, both warm-blooded animals, will try to squeeze into any nook or cranny in your home to stay warm in the winter time. It could be your chimney or attic, but it could also be inside a mounted exterior light. Be sure that your roof area is sealed to keep these flying pests out.
Mice/Rats
Probably the most common wintertime pest, mice and rats need a minuscule opening to find their way into your home. Just as with bats and birds, it is important to prevent these pests from coming into your home by blocking off potential points of entry. If they have already managed to find their way inside, then your best bet, short of hiring an exterminator, is to make sure all food and water is stored securely. If they cannot find a consistent food source, they may move on from your home.
Squirrels/Chipmunks
Just like Mice and Rats, Squirrels and Chipmunks will look for a warm, dry place to go in the winter time and that may just be your attic. While chipmunks tend to build underground nests, if they can find a way into your attic, they will most certainly take a warm, convenient option instead of digging a burrow. Be sure to cap your chimneys, check your fascia boards and rakes for any structural damage, and clear away any large shrubs or branches from near your home. This will discourage the pests from taking up residence.
Dangers
These pests, in addition to a variety of bugs, like fleas or bedbugs, should be dealt with as soon as they are discovered. All of these pests can carry diseases and, in the case of rats and mice, are likely to leave a mess in your home from digging through your cabinets and leaving behind droppings. You should attempt to deal with a pest problem as soon as its discovered, as leaving it for another day could leave you with an infestation. That is why you should contact Absolut Pest Control today for more information about us and our available services.
Winter Pest Preparation
As the weather cools, all of the animals and bugs that lived outside all spring and summer are looking for someplace warm to go. If you don’t want to deal with an infestation all winter, it is important to take steps to prevent pests from being able to take up residence inside your home during the cold months. There are steps you can take both indoors and outdoors to ensure that this does not happen.
Indoors
- Don’t leave out any food: Any pests that come into your home are looking for food, and if you don’t provide it, they are more likely to leave and look elsewhere. However, if you leave food accessible to the pests looking for shelter, don’t expect them to take up residence anywhere else.
- Check around your pipes: Most pests that make their way into your home will do so through small holes around your pipes. To keep pests out, check around your plumbing and baseboard heaters and fill the gaps with something that the pests cannot chew through. Steel wool is a great option.
- Check the weather stripping around your doors and windows: Just as pests can squeeze through small gaps around your plumbing, if there is a gap under your door, or around your window frame, they will try to squeeze through there to get to the warmth. If any of your weatherstrippings appears to be coming loose, be sure to change it before the winter months begin.
Outdoors
- Be sure to move wood piles away from your home: Wood and leaf piles are safe havens for pests in the winter. The wood piles hold warmth and moisture which attracts all sorts of pests. If you leave your wood piles too close to your home, you are more likely to attract pests into it.
- Gutters: In the same vein as making sure your wood piles are away from your home if your gutters are full of clutter, pests can take up residence in there. Since your gutters are attached to your home, it is a natural progression for the pests to then look for a way into your home. To ensure that you don’t invite pests to come into your home, make sure they can’t take up residence anywhere near it.
For more information about us and our available services, contact us today!
Fall Pests: Bees
As the summer starts to wind down and the colder weather begins to roll in, you may start to notice that the bees surrounding your home have started to find their way inside. Many worker bees are out in large numbers in desperate search of a place to call home for the winter. Despite this, many will eventually fall victim to the cold and die. But this is not true for every bee. Many individuals, including the queen, will find a place to shelter them for the winter. A common place for this to happen is inside of residential homes, specifically the attic. If homeowners do not take preventive measures a queen be can make herself at home in this upper level of your home. Similar to the inside of a hollow tree, the devoid areas inside of your home’s walls are the perfect site for bees to set up shop. This nesting site does not have to be near the entrance point either as nests are often found a ways away from where the insects enter the wall.
What To Do
Individuals who believe they be in this situation want to handle the issue before it becomes a serious problem. This is because the longer you wait to take care of the problem, the more defensive the bees will become as they get progressively more used to their new home, leading to heightened chances of stinging accidents. The best route to take if you find yourself in this situation is to contact a professional like those at Absolut Pest Control.
Transporting Bees
Although salvaging some colonies is not realistic, quite often professionals with the experience and know how can safely transport a bee colony from your home to somewhere they will thrive without the chance of disturbing other humans. It is important that you understand any cleanup or repair needs that will follow the removal process as well.
If you find that it is not possible for a professional to safetly remove the bees from the premises then the recommended course of action is to exterminate the colony. This is generally recommended if the hives are too close to everyday activity as it can quickly become a problem for those around the house.
Contact Absolut Pest Control For All of Your Bee Control Needs!
If you are having trouble with bees inside of your home this Fall, be sure to contact the professionals at Absolut Pest Control! We will be sure to take care of any problems you have regarding bees once and for all, reach out today!