Termite & Pest Control Blog

Insect Repellants 101: Do They Really Work?

June 6, 2022

Insect Repellants

Summertime is synonymous with outdoor activities. Whether you’re swimming, hiking, or just relaxing in the backyard, there’s nothing quite like enjoying the great outdoors insect-free. Unfortunately, pesky mosquitoes and other bugs can put a damper on your fun.

That’s where insect repellants come in. But do they really work? And when should you call a professional pest control agent? Keep reading for answers to these questions and more!

Insect repellants work by releasing undetectable chemicals to humans but serve as a form of communication for insects. These chemicals send a message to potential pests that the area is occupied, causing them to avoid it altogether. Repellants can be applied directly to the skin or clothing or used in conjunction with mosquito nets or traps.

There are a variety of insect repellants on the market, each with its own set of pros and cons. For example, DEET is a common active ingredient in many repellents. It’s been proven effective against a wide range of insects, but some people find it irritating to the skin. Picaridin is another popular choice. It’s odorless, non-greasy, and gentle on the skin, but it doesn’t last as long as DEET.

When choosing an insect repellant, you should keep a few things in mind. First, consider what type of insects you’re trying to repel. Different repellents are effective against various kinds of insects. Second, think about how long you’ll need the repellent to work. For example, if you’re going on a short hike, you won’t need a repellent that lasts for hours. On the other hand, if you’re spending extended time outdoors, you’ll want a repellent with longer-lasting effects.

If you’re dealing with a serious insect problem, it’s best to call a professional pest control agent. These experts can help identify the source of your problem and develop a plan to get rid of the insects for good. In the meantime, they may also recommend using insect repellents to keep the pests at bay.

Established in 1997, family-owned and -operated Rid All Termite & Pest Solutions has served numerous customers throughout the mid-south area of Olive Branch, Mississippi. We lead the mid-south pest control industry through community education, affordability, and top-notch customer service. Visit our website for more information or call (901) 377-9915 to schedule an appointment today.

Ant Treatment: When to DIY and When to Call the Pros

May 16, 2022

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Ants are a common household pest. Unfortunately, they can be annoying and challenging to get rid of. Many people try to treat an ant problem on their own, but this can often be ineffective and sometimes even dangerous.

In this blog post, we will discuss when it is appropriate to DIY ant treatment and when you should call the professionals. We will also provide some tips for getting rid of ants safely and effectively.

There are a few different things to consider when deciding whether to treat ants on your own or call the professionals. The first is the type of ant you are dealing with. If you are dealing with carpenter ants or fire ants, it is best to call the professionals. These types of ants can cause damage to your home and can be difficult to get rid of. On the other hand, if you are dealing with a different kind of ants, such as sugar ants or Pharaoh ants, you may be able to treat the issue yourself.

Another thing to consider is the size of the infestation. If you only have a few ants, it is probably safe to try a DIY treatment. However, if you have a significant infestation, it is best to call the professionals. A large infestation can be difficult to treat on your own and can often require multiple treatments.

Homeowners use several methods to treat pesky ants, such as baits, traps, and sprays. However, these methods are often ineffective and sometimes even dangerous. If you decide to treat ants on your own, it is essential to use a safe method for your family and pets.

Finally, you should also consider the severity of the infestation. If the ants are causing damage to your home or posing a health risk, it is best to call the professionals. On the other hand, if the ants are just a nuisance, you may be able to treat them on your own.

If you decide to DIY ant treatment, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

Make sure to follow the directions on any products you use.
Be sure to treat all areas where ants are present.
Be sure to monitor the situation and retreat as necessary.

If you decide to call the professionals, they will likely use baits or sprays to get rid of the ants. They may also use dust or gels. These treatments are usually more effective than DIY treatments.

When it comes to ant treatment, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Consider the type of ant, the size of the infestation, and the severity of the infestation when deciding whether to DIY or call the professionals. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with a pest control professional. They will be able to help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation and help you get rid of your pests once and for all.

Termite Swarming Season: Things to Know

May 10, 2022

Termite season

Termite swarming season is an annual problem that occurs during the spring season and typically lasts five to six months. Therefore, it’s crucial to be prepared before termites start to swarm and invade your property.

The termite swarm originates when many winged termites leave their existing colony to create a new one. The newly-formed colony then marches together to explore their new home. It’s quite a sight to see dozens of termites swarm and descend upon a house.

A swarm of termites is the first method of alerting a homeowner about the presence of termites on their property. Swarms are usually easy to identify since they are dark in color and have two wings equal in size, measuring an inch long. Flying ants are often mistaken for termites, but ants have a constricted waist, and termites do not. Additionally, termite wings are uniform in size.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many ways to prevent termite swarms. However, there are preventative measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of an infestation:

Ensure there is no wood to soil contact around your property.
Repair crevices and cracks in the foundation of your home.
Keep the gutters and downspouts free of debris.
Install termite shields around the foundation of your house.

Termite damage can be devastating. If you suspect you have a termite infestation, the best thing for you to do is call a pest control company that specializes in termite control. The professionals at Rid All Termite & Pest Solutions will eliminate so you can live and work comfortably. Our exterminators are also available to evaluate the future risk of infestation and set up a maintenance plan.

Call us today at (901) 377- 9915 or email us at tiffany@ridallbug.com. For more information about our services, visit our website.

Why Termite Inspection Matters When Buying a New Home

May 3, 2022

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You finally found the perfect house, and it checks all the boxes on your list. But before you sign those papers, take a minute to make sure your house doesn’t have any hidden issues. Did you know that termites damage approximately 600,000 homes per year in the United States? Before buying a new home, a termite inspection is a must-do for several reasons.

Termites, also known as white ants, are wood-destroying insects. They are not dangerous to humans, but they are incredibly hazardous to your home due to the amount of damage they can cause. Down to their bones, most homes are constructed of wood, which is the favorite snack of a termite. They consume wood from cabinets, joists, walls, papers, boxes, and books in homes. They are even known for destroying shrubs, trees, and other foliage surrounding your home.

Even though the average cost of termite damage repair is $3,000 and termites cause over $5 billion in property damage annually, no federal law mandates a termite inspection when buying a home. However, many lenders do require one. Your mortgage lender might request that you obtain a termite clearance letter before closing on your home.

After visiting the property, a pest control company provides a termite clearance letter and inspects the home for termites and termite damage. The inspection takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the home’s size. The inspector will need access to the entire house to inspect for visible signs of termite infestation, such as damaged wood, mud tubes, or droppings.

Even if your mortgage lender does not require a termite clearance letter, there are several reasons to get a termite inspection before you purchase a home.

Typically, homeowners insurance does not cover termite damage, so remedying any underlying issues through the home’s sale negotiations will save you money. The inspection cost is small compared to the cost of repairing a termite problem down the road.

Additionally, you may have active termites in your new home that your untrained eye cannot detect. Your licensed termite inspector can detect the presence of these pests before the damage is visible to the untrained eye. Termites can be present in the home for up to five years before the colony is large enough to cause significant damage.

The good news is that even if termites are detected on the property, not all is lost. Your professional can use termite removal methods to remedy the problem, maintain your structure’s integrity, and prevent future outbreaks.

Count on Rid All Termite & Pest Solutions for your termite inspection and prevention services. We have been keeping homes and businesses in the mid-south area bug-free for over two decades. In addition to eradicating pest problems, our highly trained exterminators can identify ways to protect your building from future infestations. Contact us for a free quote today!

Sources:

https://ridallbug.com/

https://www.simpleshowing.com/blog/do-you-really-need-a-termite-inspection-when-you-buy-a-home

Have a Pest Problem? Rid All Termite & Pest Solutions Can Help!

April 27, 2022

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Pests can be a nuisance; they can damage your home, spread disease, or contaminate food. Therefore, it is crucial to act quickly if you suspect you have a pest problem. A professional pest control company is the best way to eliminate pests.

In this blog, we will overview the advantages of hiring a professional pest control company and why you should hire one for your home.

What does a pest control company do?

Pest control professionals use a variety of methods to eliminate pests. For example, pest control professionals may use traps, chemicals, or other exclusion methods to get rid of pests. They may also offer preventive services to keep pests away from returning or prevent them from becoming a problem.

Why do you need a professional pest control company?

Hiring a professional pest control company is better than DIY pest control. Here are some of the benefits:

Expertise. Pest control professionals have the experience and knowledge to effectively and quickly eliminate pests. They receive ongoing training to understand the behavior and best ways to eliminate pests. In addition, they have the most up-to-date technology and tools to aid them in their work. Rest assured, your pest infestations will not be a problem!
Safety. Pest control professionals employ safe and effective methods to eliminate pests. They will also protect your home from any potential damage. DIY methods could endanger your safety and cause severe allergic reactions. Pest control products registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are proven safe and effective.
Cost-effective. A professional pest control company is usually more affordable than a DIY solution. DIY methods are often less effective than professional solutions and will not be able to solve the problem. Professional companies have the tools and experience to do the job right the first time, saving you money over the long term. You can also expect them to complete the job quickly, getting rid of pests as fast as possible so you can get back to your routine.
Efficacy. Professional pest control companies can achieve high levels of effectiveness in eliminating pests. They are equipped with the experience and knowledge to tackle even the most challenging pest problems. They use safe, effective methods that quickly show results and prevent future infestations.
Prevents damage. If left untreated, pests can cause severe damage to your home. Pests can cause damage to your property, contaminate food and furniture, and even compromise the structural integrity and safety of your business or home. Professional pest management services can prevent this type of damage, saving you lots of money over the long term.
Peace of mind. You can be sure that a professional exterminator will take care of your pest problem. It will be easy to feel secure knowing that your home and business are free of pests. These companies are committed to customer satisfaction and will work hard for you to eliminate problems as quickly and effectively as possible.
Find the solution. Pest control professionals will eliminate your problem right at the source. They will identify the root cause and provide solutions. As a result, you can prevent pest problems from returning in the future, especially if you have to deal with stubborn pests such as bed bugs.

Trust Rid All Termite & Pest Solutions

It is crucial to act quickly if you have a pest problem. A professional pest control company will complete the job properly by safely and effectively eliminating pest infestations.

Established in 1997, family-owned and -operated Rid All Termite & Pest Solutions has served numerous customers throughout the mid-south area of Olive Branch, Mississippi. Through community education, affordability, and top-notch customer service, we lead the mid-south pest control industry. Visit our website for more information or call (901) 377-9915 to schedule an appointment today.

Sources
https://ridallbug.com
https://www.kykopestprevention.com/blog/hiring-pest-control-company-benefits
https://inman-murphy.com/5-ways-pest-control-professionals-improve-quality-of-life

Get Rid of Pests Year Round in Your Home: Tips and Tricks

April 25, 2022

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Do you have a pest problem? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people deal with pests every year. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and tricks to help you get rid of pests all year round.

One of the best ways to get rid of pests is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. There are a few things you can do to help with this:

Seal any cracks or openings around your doors and windows to keep out pests like insects and rodents. You can also use screens on your doors and windows to help keep pests out.
Keep your yard clean and free of debris to help deter pests from making their way into your home.
Store your firewood as far away from your home as possible to prevent a pest invasion. Pests love to hide in these areas, and if they are close to your home, it makes it easy for them to find their way inside.
Keep a clean kitchen by doing dishes right away, taking out the trash, and sweeping regularly. A clean kitchen is less likely to attract pests.
Vacuuming your house regularly to help pick up any food dropped on the floor. Pests can find their way into your home by following the scent of food.
Insects love water. If you have any areas in your home prone to water damage or flooding, this is an open invitation to pests. Be sure to repair any water damage and keep your home as dry as possible.

If you already have a pest problem, you can do a few things to get rid of them:

Set traps. There are many different types of traps available, so be sure to choose the best one for the kind of pest you are dealing with.
Use pesticides. Be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions. If you use pesticides, keep them out of reach of children and pets.

If you have tried these tips and still have problems with pests, be sure to contact a professional pest control company. They will be able to help you get rid of your pests once and for all.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Pest Control Company

April 20, 2022

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At least once a year, many of us have pest problems that require the help of a professional. It can be a daunting task to choose the right pest control services. However, before committing to a company, it’s important to research a company and its services. It’s always good to look at various companies before settling on one, even if your pest problem is a high priority.

When doing your research, keep these considerations in mind:
License & Certification
Ask each company if their exterminators or inspectors have current licenses or the correct classifications for the job. When in doubt, you can call your state pesticide regulatory office. You also want to check the company’s staffing procedure regarding products, safety procedures, integrated pest management techniques, and current regulations.

Reputation
To review a company’s reputation, you can simply check how many years the company has provided services on its Google Business Page (GBP) or website. In addition, checking their GBP reviews offers insight into their service practices. It is also a good idea to ask neighbors, coworkers, friends, or family members for a recommendation; however, for detailed inquiries, you can also contact the Better Business Bureau for information on recent unresolved issues, violations, or complaints.

Service Estimate
Many pest control companies offer free estimates, including Rid All Termite & Pest Control. After the initial visit, ask for a cost estimate of the services in writing. Look for requirements on signing up for long-term contracts and overall cost. Do they provide a guarantee for the services they will provide? Will they be attentive to your concerns? Can they provide details about your pest and the magnitude of the infestation?

Risk Management
If you have a garden or pets in your backyard, ask about toxicity alternatives and limit environmental risks. Do they have insurance to cover your property and you as a customer if there is an issue or pesticide exposure? Finally, with COVID still in the air, are they taking the initiative in wearing protective equipment when needed?

Service Details
After the job is completed, make sure you have the company’s contact information, the technician who performed the services, the treatment or inspection time or date, the products used, and their Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration numbers. In addition, note the formulation used (i.e., gel, spray, or dust) and where the product was used on your property.

It requires cooperation and communication between you and the pest control company to get an excellent overall service experience. Always ask relevant questions to understand the treatment and further accountabilities in making a treatment successful.

References:
https://www.mandmpestcontrol.com/how-to-choose-the-right-pest-control-company-in-2021/
http://npic.orst.edu/pest/selectpco.html
https://www.bestpickreports.com/blog/post/how-to-choose-a-pest-control-company-the-dos-and-donts/

The Negative Impacts on Your Health from Pest Infestations

September 27, 2021

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An infestation of pests that vary in size and species is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. For those individuals who are phobic of any invasive critters, nothing is more startling than flipping on your basement light to see something scurry past your feet.

Whether your response to a pest is stark fear or mild annoyance, the reason for this blunt emotion is primordial in nature. We as humans are aware they pose a threat and are not fearful because of their eerie appearance.

Even a single ant in your kitchen may be an indication of an infestation. Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions want to educate you on defining what exactly an infestation is, the danger it poses to human health, and preventative methods.

What Defines An ‘Infestation’?

Just because you notice a spider on the basement stairs or a chipmunk in your garage does not instantly guarantee you have a pest infestation. However, the fact that one has gotten in means that more likely than not, many more have been signaled for entry.

The term ‘infestation’ refers to a large amount of insects or other pests invading the interior of your living environment. For instance, hornets setting up nests behind broken siding on your house and several finding a way inside is considered an infestation.

When it comes to rodents, especially mice, even just one is considered a rodent infestation. Due to their size, they can cause more damage and risk to your health. If more follow suit, the problems compound quicker.

Damage To Your Health

The danger that any type of pest infestation poses to your health, your family’s health, or your pet’s well-being is so broad, it pays to eliminate the issue long before it gets out of control. Here are some health effects to be aware of, caused by pest infestations.

Insects of all kinds bite, in one way or another. Spider bites are infrequent but possible, whereas a bed bug bite can trigger a severe allergic reaction in someone who previously never knew of the allergy. If you live in an area with termites, an infestation of these creatures kicks up dust, aggravating any respiratory allergies you or your children have.

More dangerous is rodent infestations. Mice urinate and defecate several times a day, and they do it wherever they make a home. Because mice and rats root through trash, they carry with them E coli, salmonella, and other bacteria, potentially spreading it on your food if they reside in your cabinets.

Prevention Is Key

Hiring a team like Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions to safely eliminate a pest infestation of any kind is a valuable solution; however, preventing an infestation before it occurs is even better.

If you know your area is prone to a specific infestation, contact Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions to conduct an evaluation of your home. In doing so, an experienced technician will identify problem areas for you to repair or replace. Visit their website today for more information!

How Can Bed Bugs Affect Your Health?

August 27, 2021

With the world being more conscientious about public health, science is always uncovering lasting effects behind good and bad diets, smoking, and seasonal illnesses. What most don’t consider is the danger certain pests bring to you and your family’s health.

The thought of bed bugs likely makes skin crawl. These minute critters making the sheets you sleep in their primary residence is ghoulish; however, an actual bite from one of these creepy crawlers can negatively impact your health far beyond what you may realize.

Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions works diligently at collating knowledge around the physical damage these pests can inflict in an effort to educate their customers and the general public. As a result of this research, here are a couple of issues that stem from bed bugs that all should be aware of:

Insomnia and Residual Issues

Bed bugs thrive on both human blood and your body heat while you sleep at night. What that means is that in your vacancy, they sit patiently in cracks and crevasses around your bed, drawn directly to you throughout the night when you are present.

They don’t call them pests for nothing – as these bed bugs bite you, you undoubtedly lie awake, making valiant attempts to ward them off to no avail. This tireless effort leads to many reports of insomnia, which in turn leads to other residual issues stemming from lack of sleep that impact your day-to-day life.

Those residual issues include, but are not limited to, irritability, exhaustion, anxiety, depression, and more. What inflames these issues even further is that until you bring in a team like Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions, the problem will not go away.

Secondary Infections

Once bed bugs have attacked, bed bug bites are about as annoying as a cluster of mosquito bites. The itching is tremendous, and if you have younger children, they likely lack the discipline necessary to avoid scratching at these bites.

As you or your family scratch for relief, you are actually injuring the affected areas of your skin with much worse damage than the original bites themselves caused. If any of these bites break open, you are now at risk of a secondary infection from an open wound.

Those allergic to bed bug bites have even more severe itch, further increasing the possibility of secondary infections. Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions has discovered infections including impetigo caused by the staph bacteria or lymphangitis, which is a combination of several bacteria affecting the lymph vessels.

Rid All Has A Solution

Since 1997, Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions has been a family-owned and operated pest control team servicing areas in both Tennessee and Mississippi. Do not let bed bugs, termites, or other pests take over your life; let Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions help you take back control of your home!

Discover what pest control services Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions can aid you, your family, or even your place of business with by visiting their website today.

Types of Mosquito-Borne Disease

July 15, 2021

Dealing with mosquitos is a natural part of the summer season, however, if you begin experiencing flu-like symptoms in the middle of summer, it’s possible you’re suffering from a mosquito-borne disease. Most mosquitoes get infected by feeding on a bird with the virus, but in rare cases, it’s possible for mosquitoes to get it from other animals. Though most mosquitos do not carry viruses (and only certain types of mosquitoes CAN carry viruses), it’s important to be aware of the different mosquito-borne illnesses you could get from a mosquito bite so you’re best prepared to handle it.

There are many different mosquito-borne diseases, or arboviruses, that exist in the world, but there are mainly 5 in the United States to worry about. Here’s some basic information about those mosquito-borne viruses:

West Nile Virus. The West Nile Virus (WNV) is found in Mississippi in horses, birds, mosquitoes, and humans. Though anyone can get WNV, symptoms are more severe and/or deadly for people over the age of 50, with 3-15% of people with WNV dying. WNV is a different kind of arbovirus, as WNV can also kill certain species of birds, as well as horses.

St. Louis Encephalitis. St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE) is the most common arbovirus found in Mississippi. It only affects humans, and mostly only affects elderly patients in the summer and early fall seasons. Most cases are not fatal, but roughly 15% of patients with severe symptoms die from SLE every year.

Eastern and Western Equine Encephalitis. Both Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) are essentially the same virus, however, EEE is typically found in eastern and Gulf Coast states, and WEE is found in midwest/western states. It is found in birds and horses, and very rarely, humans. Unlike other arboviruses, it is more likely to affect children rather than the elderly. It also has a much higher rate of fatality– roughly 30-60% of cases end in death.

LaCrosse Encephalitis. This virus is found primarily in Midwestern states, but has been reported in Mississippi as well. It primarily affects humans under the age of 16 years old from the spring-fall seasons. It is the least fatal of these 5 viruses, with only 1% of symptomatic patients dying.

Rid All Termite and Pest Solutions can help with your mosquito control. With over 2 decades of experience, we have served over 10,000 homes and businesses in the Olive Branch area with high quality pest control services. In addition to mosquitoes, we can help control other pests including rodents, ants, termites, cockroaches, and bed bugs. Visit our website for a full list of service and information, or give us a call at 901-377-9915.