Thursday, March 17, 2011

How To Choose A Pest Control Service

  • Make sure the company offers a guarantee. You need to understand the terms and conditions and how long the guarantee is offered.

  • A good reputation in the market is a good indicator of good service. Check your local Better Business Bureau or Department of Agriculture to see if complaints have been filed against the company.

  • Verify that the firm you select is a member of your state pest control association and the National Pest Control Association. Membership in the National, and state or local pest control associations is a good indicator that the company has access to modern technical information.

  • In the area of termite control, their commitment to further education is important, particularly with the newer baits and baiting techniques on the market.

  • Seek at least 3 different proposals.

  • It is important to request the plan of work revealing sites of termite activity and treatment procedures. Ask for written information on chemical treatment procedures, bait station placements, repair of wood work, warranties, and copies of insecticide labels.

  • Compare bids before making decisions. Ask about liability insurance.
We've been in the pest control industry in Tampa Bay for over 10 years. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

General Pest Control Tips

  1. Read and follow label directions.
  2. Protect yourself and others from contact with any pesticide.
  3. Never eat, drink, or smoke while using any pesticide.
  4. Do not allow food, trash, decaying wood, etc. to remain in or on your property.
  5. Cover or seal trash tightly.
  6. Do not accumulate trash or debris.
  7. Cut back limbs, shrubs, and vines that touch or overhang your property.
  8. Stack firewood off the ground.
  9. "Weatherize" your home. Seal all possible pest entry points.
  10. Close all gaps larger than 1.4 inch.
  11. Check for and remove structural damage such as moisture-damaged wood. Water damage can cause weak spots in the roof. Animals may enter through the weakened area. Repair damaged windows and screens.
  12. Look for holes where roofs overlap.
  13. Keep gutters clean.
  14. Shuffle stored items regularly and keep boxes tightly sealed in plastic bags.
  15. Check storage areas for rodents.
  16. Keep gutters clear.
  17. Keep all areas where food is prepared, stored, and served clean and free of crumbs and grease. Garbage can lids should be kept closed and secured.
  18. Before storing end-of-season clothes, make sure they are clean.
  19. Drawer and cabinet liners, paper grocery bags, and even wallpaper can be a source of food to pests.
  20. Carefully check for pests in furniture, boxes, paper, and other items brought into your home.
  21. Chimneys are frequented by squirrels, raccoons, and birds and they represent the single largest opening in a typical home. Consider chimney caps or wire mesh to cover.
  22. Areas where pipes, cables, and wires enter walls and soffits should be sealed completely.
  23. Install 1/4-inch wire mesh (hardware cloth) over attic, roof, and crawl space vents in order to prevent entry of birds, bats, squirrels, rodents, and other wildlife. Be sure to wear gloves when cutting and installing hardware cloth, as the wire edges are razor sharp.