Insects, Wasps, Mosquitoes and Other Pests

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Pest Control Woodland Hills CA is the management of harmful organisms that spoil food, damage property, or threaten human health. It can be achieved by prevention—keeping pests from causing harm—suppression—reducing the number of pests to an acceptable level—or eradication—destroying the pests themselves.

Regular pest control services can provide homeowners with peace of mind and help preserve home value by preventing damage to furniture and fixtures. They can also help protect families and their pets from dangerous pathogens, allergens, and irritants.

Insects are the most numerous organisms on Earth and form more than 80% of all known living species. While a small fraction are considered pests, their presence is crucial to ecosystems around the globe. Insects pollinate plants and play an essential role in the production of seeds, fruits and vegetables. In addition, they are important decomposers, transforming organic matter into simpler forms that are used by plants and other organisms.

In general, insect populations fluctuate depending on temperature, rainfall, host plant availability and natural enemies. Therefore, pest control methods must consider these factors and other environmental influences.

Many vegetable producers employ cultural controls, such as proper soil preparation and careful plant selection, to reduce losses from insects. These methods can be combined with biological and physical controls to minimize the use of pesticides.

Chemical control involves the use of chemicals to kill or inhibit insect feeding, mating and other vital behaviors. These chemicals can be natural products, synthesized mimics of natural products or completely synthetic materials.

The IAEA helps nations by offering radiation-based technologies, such as selective insect breeding, inherited sterility and genetic manipulation, to improve agricultural practices. These techniques reduce reliance on pesticides, contributing to safer food for the world’s population.

Rodents

Rodents are small mammals that carry diseases that can be transmitted to people. They also cause damage and chew holes through walls and insulation, resulting in exposed wires and leaky pipes, which can lead to expensive repair costs. Rodents are known to cause fires by gnawing on electrical wires. They can also transmit pathogens like the bacteria that causes bubonic plague, and cause allergies and asthma triggers in humans.

Rodents enter homes and buildings looking for food, water and shelter. They are attracted to dry food crumbs, spills, tin and cardboard objects, garbage, compost, and other materials that provide nesting materials. Keep all food in tightly-closed containers and store it in rodent-proof containers. Keep trash in sealed bins, with a lid where applicable. Trim and remove overgrown lawns and vegetation to eliminate shelter.

Rats can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter, while mice can fit through dime-sized spaces. Close up these areas by caulking and sealing with sheet metal or 1/4-inch mesh galvanized hardware cloth. Report any conditions that attract rats or mice, such as water leaks or unsecured debris, to your landlord or property manager and request these be fixed promptly. Place effective, low hazard traps around your home and in open areas where rats or mice are known to run.

Wasps

The key to preventing a wasp infestation is eliminating the food sources that attract these insects. Trimming back bushes, twigs, and shrubs reduces nest sites. Eliminating flies, spiders and other insects that feed on wasps, also limits their numbers. Preventing relapses of wasp infestations is accomplished by removing old nests before the start of the season. In addition, removing the waste products of these insects — discarded fruit, rotting meat, and other food scraps — from around structures eliminates attracting sources of odor and food for wasps.

Structural wasp nests may be controlled with standard pressurized sprays containing resmethrin, permethrin, cyfluthrin, pyrethrins, and DDVP (or Wasp Freeze). If possible, it is best to treat these nests at night when the wasps are less active. Ideally, the entrance of the nest can be plugged with cotton or dusted with 5% carbaryl to prevent re-entry and kill returning wasps.

Social wasps are important predators of pests, especially caterpillars, which destroy many small crops and are often considered the most serious horticultural crop pest. However, these wasps require a certain level of environmental complexity to maintain high populations, and their performance as biological control is limited in monocrop landscapes by ecological thresholds.

Ants

Ants are fascinating insects that form highly organized colonies, displaying remarkable cooperation and efficiency. Unfortunately, ants also can become pests in homes and gardens by foraging for food indoors and damaging crops. Some species also irritate humans with their stinging behavior.

Identifying the type of ant infesting your property is key to tailoring treatment methods effectively. Keep ant infestations at bay by promptly cleaning up food residue and spills, storing food in airtight containers, and regularly emptying trash bins. In addition, you can help prevent ant entry by sealing cracks and gaps around your home or commercial facility.

It is important to distinguish ants from termites, which are often mistaken for one another. Generally, ants are darker than termites and have jointed antennae that are pinched at the ends. Also, ants tend to have a small gap between their abdomen and thorax. Ants may also have a distinct scent.

If you find ant nests in your indoor spaces, treat them with enclosed, tamper-resistant bait traps that contain a premixed mixture of the pesticide hydramethylnon and/or fipronil along with food. Worker ants will carry the poison back to their colony and kill the queen, effectively eliminating the problem. Avoid using sprays or bombs/foggers that can irritate lungs and leave chemical residue on surfaces.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are small insects that bite to feed on blood and transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika and Dengue. They are hard to kill with traditional pesticides, so EPA and Centers for Disease Control work closely with state mosquito control departments to develop pesticides that kill mosquitoes quickly when the public’s health is at risk.

The first step in mosquito control is eliminating areas where they breed. Empty and change the water in bird baths, fountains, wading pools, discarded tires and other containers that can hold rainwater or animal urine. Keep brush piles and other brush away from houses and other buildings.

Female mosquitoes detect carbon dioxide in our breath, then land on us and probe with their mouthparts (called a proboscis) to locate the best capillaries for sucking blood. They are often attracted to octenol, a chemical released in sweat, but also can be lured by perfume, skin lotions and certain bacteria. Mosquitoes can bite day or night but typically begin biting at dusk and continue through the dark.

Some species, such as the inland floodwater mosquito (Aedes vexans), Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) and tree hole mosquito (Ochlerotatus triseriatus) are container-breeding mosquitoes that lay their eggs in water-filled containers, such as stumps, logs, tree holes and artificial containers like discarded tires. The CDC recommends an integrated pest management approach to control these species, emphasizing habitat reduction and larval control.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are reddish-brown in color and have flattened bodies, making them hard to see with the naked eye (particularly in their early nymph stages). They hide during the day in crevices and cracks. Infestations are common in multi-occupancy buildings such as hostels, hotels, and blocks of apartments with rapid resident turnover. They can be spread on luggage, backpacks, clothing and furniture or by people moving from infested to uninfested rooms or apartments.

Bed bug infestations are difficult to control because the pests can be mobile and disperse building-wide. Cooperation by owners and occupants is crucial during treatment. Extensive preparation may be necessary, and occupants must remove items from beds and living areas so that the entire area can be treated. Clutter and belongings strewn about the apartment impede treatment, affording more places for the pests to hide, and should be removed.

Unlike other insects, bed bugs cannot be killed by hot water or heat, bleach, alcohol, or cigarette lighters. Sprays such as ‘bug bombs’ (also known as fogging or incorrectly referred to as ‘fumigating’) are ineffective and present a fire and safety hazard. Unless the product label allows it, do not spray mattresses and bedding; instead, launder these items frequently and thoroughly in hot water.

Termites

Termites are wood-eating pests that can damage structures and cause severe structural damage to homes. They are primarily active during warm weather, when they can move more quickly to reach food sources.

Unlike ants, termites do not travel across the soil surface or through open air. Instead, they tunnel into the ground and into wood or other materials, traveling in small mud tubes made of droppings, saliva and soil. Mud tubes are often found on foundation walls, floor joists and ceilings. In a home, mud tubes can create an inconvenient and unsightly entry point for termites.

When a termite colony is mature, it produces winged reproductive males and females (also known as alates). These swarmers are poor fliers but can be attracted to light, and they may fly into your house looking for mates and places to establish new colonies.

Although it is best to prevent termite infestations with a full treatment by a professional, homeowners can take simple steps to minimize the risk. For example, keep firewood and lumber away from the house, install screens on exterior vents, slop the soil around the house to help it drain properly, and fix plumbing fixtures that are prone to leaking.

Why Gutter Cleaning Is Important

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Gutter cleaning is one of the most important parts of home maintenance. It protects your roof, siding, and foundation from water damage and improves curb appeal.

Gutters tunnel rainwater off your roof to the ground through downspouts. But leaves, twigs, dirt, and seeds can get trapped inside, clogging gutter systems. Contact Charleston Gutter Solutions now!

  1. Prevents Roof Damage

Gutter systems are designed to channel water away from a house’s roof and foundation. But if they become clogged, water will build up on the roof and cause leaks, which can be extremely costly to repair. A regular schedule of gutter cleaning helps prevent this.

If left unattended, a clogged gutter can cause rot to fascia boards, rafter tails, and even the roof sheathing. This can be a major problem because these areas are usually not easily accessible, and repairing them can be expensive. Gutter cleaning prevents these problems by ensuring that the gutter is clear of leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris.

In addition, a clogged gutter can also create standing water which may stain the fascia boards. In the winter, this can lead to ice dams which in turn can cause further damage to the roof and leaks into the home. Regular cleaning eliminates these issues by allowing the rainwater to flow freely from the roof and down the gutters.

Standing water and rotting debris also provides a perfect habitat for pests like mosquitoes, carpenter ants and termites which can all enter the house through the fascia boards or attics. Additionally, pests in a clogged gutter can spread diseases such as the West Nile virus. Gutter cleaning removes these enticing environments to help protect the property from unwanted insects and rodents.

Finally, a clogged gutter can trap melting snow during the winter which in turn can lead to ice dams and further roof damage. When the ice dams melt and the water flows down the gutter, it can force itself under the shingles and cause leaks. This is why combining gutter cleaning with roof maintenance is so important.

Gutters are an essential part of any home or building. However, they can be easy to overlook because they are out of sight and mind until there is a problem. A routine schedule of gutter cleaning can prevent all of these problems and ensure that your home is protected for years to come. While many people are hesitant to hire a professional service to clean the gutters, those who are comfortable on ladders can do the job themselves for a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional. Just make sure to practice ladder safety and use caution.

  1. Prevents Ice Dams

When ice dams form, they stop water and snow from being carried away from your roof. As a result, this moisture finds another way to escape your home – through leaks in the roof and gutters, as well as wall cavities and basements. They also add a lot of weight to your roof and gutters, which can cause them to bend or break. If the ice dams fall off the roof, they can damage windows and landscaping below your home.

Gutter cleaning can prevent the formation of ice dams. When your gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, melting snow and rain cannot flow through them freely. Instead, they re-freeze at night along the eaves and create layers of ice known as ice dams. These dams can block water from flowing off the roof and into gutters, creating a build-up of ice that paves the way for more ice to form over time.

If the ice dams build up enough, they can tear off the shingles and cause gutter damage. They can also block the ventilation of your attic, allowing moisture to build up in the insulation and walls of your home. As a result, these conditions can lead to mold, mildew, rot and structural damage.

Professional gutter cleaning can prevent ice dams from forming. Using a telescoping gutter cleaning wand (or a ladder) with proper safety equipment, a professional crew will remove all debris and ensure your gutters can drain melting snow easily. They can also inspect your attic for inadequate insulation and ventilation, which is a common cause of uneven roof temperatures and ice dams.

Getting your gutters cleaned twice a year is the best way to keep them free of ice dams and other problems. However, if you notice high energy bills, constant ice dams or water drips from the attic, it may be time to hire professionals for roof and gutter maintenance.

  1. Prevents Pests

While many homeowners know gutter cleaning is important to prevent water damage, few are aware that it also helps prevent pest infestations. Clogged gutters are a breeding ground for mosquitoes, gnats, flies, rodents, and other unwanted critters. Regular professional gutter cleaning eliminates these pest-attracting elements, making your home less of a welcoming destination for creatures looking for shelter and food.

Mosquitoes thrive in clogged gutters, where they can lay their eggs and develop through their four-stage life cycle (egg, larva, pupa, and adult). They aren’t just annoying; they can also carry dangerous diseases like Zika, West Nile virus, Chikungunya, dengue, and malaria. Regular gutter cleaning helps to reduce mosquito populations, making your backyard a safer place for family and friends to enjoy the outdoors.

Clogged gutters also attract rodents, birds, and insects, as they provide a cozy place to hide and nest. Once these critters take up residence, they can cause serious structural damage to your roof, fascia boards, and walls. In addition, they can block rainwater flow, further exacerbating the clog and increasing your risk of roof damage. Regular gutter cleaning can help to deter pests, and a good gutter guard will further protect your gutters from animal debris.

A well-maintained gutter system will also discourage bird and rodent nesting near your roofline, preventing future blockages. If you’re concerned about animal nesting in your gutters, ask a professional to recommend a good pest repellent. Natural solutions, such as peppermint oil and vinegar sprays, can effectively deter ants, rodents, and other pests without the use of harsh chemicals or harming the environment.

Clogged gutters can even invite cockroaches, which are attracted to moisture and food sources. If left unchecked, a cockroach infestation can grow into a full-blown roach epidemic in your entire house. By removing a cockroach’s breeding grounds and food sources, you can eliminate them from your property for good.

  1. Prevents Mold and Mildew

Gutter cleaning prevents mold and mildew, and helps improve the indoor air quality of your home. This is because clogged gutters become a breeding ground for pests, rodents, and bacteria, which then infiltrate your home’s living space. These harmful microorganisms release spores, mycotoxins, and allergens into the indoor air, causing allergic reactions and respiratory issues.

Besides being unsightly, these fungi also threaten the structural integrity of your home. The spores from mold and mildew will eventually deteriorate the wooden materials in your roof, leading to sagging and moisture damage over time. Gutter cleaning eliminates the clogs and restores gutters to full drainage capacity, keeping them protected against fungal growth.

Regular gutter cleaning ensures proper runoff control, preventing excess moisture from seeping into siding cracks, fascia boards, and other vulnerable areas. Moisture in these areas will encourage mold and mildew, which will damage your home’s structure and lead to costly repairs. Gutter cleaning removes the clogs and cleans out debris like leaves, twigs, and roof sediment to prevent water accumulation and direct the flow of rainwater correctly away from your home.

Moisture damage from clogged gutters introduces a host of hazardous contaminants into your home’s environment, including mycotoxins, allergens, and volatile organic compounds from decaying organic material. Inhaling these toxins can cause everything from allergic reactions and respiratory distress to opportunistic infections, chronic fatigue, and even memory loss over time.

Dirty gutters can also contaminate your indoor air with rodent dander, mold spores, and other particulate matter. If left unchecked, these pollutants will circulate throughout your house’s ventilation system and infiltrate every room. Moreover, these contaminants will generate uncomfortable allergy symptoms and aggravate existing conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and eczema. Gutter cleaning, along with a multi-pronged approach such as air filters and hygiene practices, reduces avoidable allergen load in your home’s indoor air to minimize discomfort, illness, and long term health risks.

As the winter season approaches it is important to take stock of your home’s condition and schedule gutter cleaning services. It is a good idea to schedule gutter cleaning before the predominant leaf and needle fall in your area, or immediately afterward, depending on your location. This way you will have clean, mold-free gutters for the rest of the year.