How to Get Rid of Spiders in Your Washington D.C. Home

Spiders in your Washington D.C. home may be a common occurrence, and while most are harmless, they are not always a welcome sight on your property. Understanding why spiders enter your home can help you prevent them more easily.

Understanding Area Spiders

There are several different types of spiders common to the Washington D.C. area that you may find in your home:

• Jumping Spiders: Small to medium-sized jumping spiders range in color. They typically hide from humans and move fairly slowly, but they can jump large distances when threatened. This spider type typically doesn’t bite humans unless attacked.

• Wolf Spiders: Though they look slightly terrifying with their large brownish bodies and tan stripes, wolf spiders are another fairly harmless spider species. They generally hide away from humans. 

• Grass Spiders: With a similar appearance to the wolf spider, grass spiders are generally harmless. They have two dark stripes on their back and a tan midline, and their fangs and typically not strong enough to puncture human skin.

• Black Widows: Though they are more common in Northern Virginia, D.C. homes may host black widows from time to time. This spider has a black round body with red hourglass markings on the abdomen. Unlike most other spiders in the area, a bite from a black widow should receive immediate medical attention.

Many spiders will enter your home in search of food, water, or shelter. They will come in through any gaps or cracks in your home’s windows, doors, or foundation for prey or safety. If you are encountering many spiders in your home, it may be because you have another underlying pest problem that is attracting spiders onto your property. Dealing with these pest prey (such as ants, beetles, or cockroaches) can also help to improve any spider infestation problem you are having. Contact the professionals at American Pest for more advice or assistance with this.

Spider Prevention Tips

There are several prevention tips that you can follow to keep spiders away from your Washington D.C. home and property:

• Seal up potential entry points around your house. This includes repairing gaps and cracks in windows, doors, and your home’s foundation, in addition to replacing damaged weather stripping or worn-out window and door screens.

• Store all trash and food properly as the aroma of these things can attract other pests. Spiders will come in looking for these other insects, leading to an even bigger infestation in your home.

• Correct moisture issues and leaks both inside and outside your home. Most pests and spider types are attracted to moisture and may enter your home or property for easy access to it.

• Clear your yard and home or any clutter or debris. Keep grass trimmed low and clean out garages, attics, and basements to prevent spiders or other pests from having easy hiding spaces in and around your home.

Professional Pest and Spider Removal

Spider infestations often go hand in hand with other pest problems. The best way to handle a pest infestation and get rid of spiders in your home is to call the professionals at American Pest. They will be able to evaluate your problem and deliver efficient solutions, so your home remains pest-free.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-to-get-rid-of-spiders-in-your-washington-d-c-home

How Pantry Moths Get Into Maryland Pantries And How to Keep Them Out

Pantry Moths are a common pest in Maryland pantries and can be incredibly difficult to remove without professional help. Engaging in moth prevention is the best way to deter this pest from entering your home.

What Are Pantry Moths?

The Indian meal moth, often called pantry moths, have a characteristic wing pattern once they reach their adult form. The bottom half of their wings are distinctly reddish-brown or bronze-colored with an off-white or grey hint near the body. The larvae of this moth infest stored food products and tend to live and feed there until they reach adulthood. From there, the moth lives a short adult life of up to 19 days where it mates and then leaves behind more eggs in food packaging to continue the life cycle.

It may be possible for Indian meal moths to enter your home through an open window or cracked door, but it is much more likely that this pest comes into your cupboards as an egg, hiding out in any stored food product you may have. As you purchase packaged goods such as flour, cereals, and nuts and bring them into your home from the store, the eggs will hatch into larvae and feed on the food. They can enter into these packages either during the food production, while at the store, or in your home if you already have a problem with Indian meal moths.

Indian Meal Moth Prevention Tips

If you want to ensure your cupboards are free of Indian meal moths, you may want to undertake these prevention tips and keep your eye out for signs that this pesky insect has invaded your home:

• Carefully inspect stored goods at any grocery store you are shopping in. You should be looking for webbing along the corners or inside of the packages. There may be an unpleasant odor in flour or cereal products or stickiness that causes grains to clump together. Don’t purchase items with these signs and inspect the goods in your pantry for these items as well, throwing out anything suspect.

• Make sure the food in your pantry is properly sealed. Many individuals choose to remove items from the store packaging and seal them in glass or plastic containers. This provides a more air-tight seal and allows you to inspect items as you transfer the product carefully and after the food has been stored in your cabinet.

• Ensure that potential entry points into your home are sealed. It is not common for pantry moths to enter through a door or window, but closing up all gaps and cracks will help to prevent them and any other pests in your home.

• Clean out your cabinets and food storage areas regularly. Wipe off all surfaces, declutter the area, and throw away expired food promptly to reduce the chances of an infestation start and growing out of control.

Complete Moth Removal

If you are struggling with an Indian meal moth problem in your Maryland home, the best way to get rid of this pest in all stages of its lifecycle is to enlist the help of the professionals at American Pest. We provide safe and affordable, and simple home pest controls service plans to ensure complete moth removal from your home. Call us today to book your free estimate or use our online contact form.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-pantry-moths-get-into-maryland-pantries-and-how-to-keep-them-out

How Dangerous Is It to Have Fleas in My Washington D.C. Home?

Once fleas enter your home, they can cause serious issues with both your pets and your family. To rid yourself of this annoying pest, ongoing prevention tactics are necessary.

The Problems With Fleas 

Fleas are a common problem in Washington D.C. homes. It can be hard to detect an infestation at first as this tiny insect is so hard to see, but there are several warning signs you can look out for that indicate fleas are starting to move into your home:

• You may notice your pets start scratching themselves constantly and always seem to be uncomfortable or itchy. They may also develop red bumps around their belly, tail, or under their legs. Humans may also start feeling itchy or developing red bumps on their arms and legs due to flea bites.

• Visual inspection of your pet turns up the fleas themselves or flea “dirt,” which is actually the droppings of fleas. You may also find flea dirt around your home or dead flea bodies in your carpet – these can be hard to see, so a close inspection of your home is required.

• Hair loss or other health issues in your pets may be occurring. These issues are typically caused by serious flea infestations where the pet is repeatedly bitten. Humans may also experience allergic reactions to flea bites, so it is important to seek medical attention if you develop hives or shortness of breath.

Because fleas are such a common pest problem, many individuals don’t think they are a big deal. However, even homes without pets can encounter a flea infestation. This insect can bring danger to both pets and people:

• Fleas can introduce diseases to humans and pets in your household, including the more rare but dangerous flea-borne typhus and bubonic plague illnesses. Flea bites can also transfer tapeworms to humans and pets or heartworms to animals.

• Fleas may cause health issues in humans, such as allergic reactions. These can be mild and range from itching or swelling to full-blown anaphylaxis.

Flea Prevention Tips

There are several flea prevention tactics that you can undertake to ensure this pest stays out of your home and off of your pets year-round:

• Make sure your pets are up to date with flea prevention treatment year-round. Even in the winter, fleas can enter your home as they ride in on rodent hosts looking for shelter.

• Deter all wildlife and rodents that carry fleas from entering your property and into your home. You can do this by sealing gaps around windows, doors, and your home’s foundation and by working with the professionals at American Pest.

• Clear yard debris from your property regularly and keep the grass trimmed low. This will prevent rodents and other pests from hiding in your yard and potentially introduce a flea infestation.

• Vacuum and dust around your home often. This will help you remove any trace of fleas or flea eggs that may be lying around your home and aid you in fighting an ongoing infestation.

Expert Flea Protection

Though flea prevention tactics may work, the best form of flea protection is a collaboration between your veterinarian and the pest control professionals at American Pest. The experts will be able to deflea your home and ensure that you and your pets live in happy harmony.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-dangerous-is-it-to-have-fleas-in-my-washington-d-c-home

Why Do I Have Bed Bugs in My Maryland Home?

Bed bugs are small but fearsome pests that can easily make their way into your Maryland home when you aren’t looking. It’s important to understand the basics of bed bugs to prevent them properly.

What to Know About Bed Bugs

Bed bugs may be small, but they bring with them several common misconceptions and a few serious risks to your Maryland home. Many individuals think that bed bugs can only appear in dirty homes, but the truth is that bed bugs infestations can happen to anyone. This pesky insect is adept at hiding out and hitchhiking from place to place either in your clothing or luggage, meaning that it is easy to pick up bed bugs and transport them back to your home or business.

Bed bug hotspots include hotels and motels, airports, trains, offices, gyms, schools, dorms, and libraries. Bed bugs frequent these areas due to the number of people passing through regularly. 

To prevent picking up bed bugs in any of these hot spots, you can follow these prevention tactics:

• You should refrain from putting your baggage on the ground in any area you travel through, especially hotels and motels. Use an elevated surface to rest your luggage on to prevent bed bugs from crawling into it while you sleep.
• Before sleeping, pull back sheets and mattress covers and check the corners. Bed bugs typically hide out here. You may also want to look for any red or rust-colored stains on the sheets, as these indicate bed bugs.
• Use a flashlight to check corners and gaps in hotel room walls and floors or the seams of furniture in other bed bug hot spots. Bed bugs typically gather in small, hard-to-reach areas, and a flashlight can illuminate them.
• Wash and dry any clothing you traveled with on high heat as soon as you return home. You may also want to keep a regular washing schedule of any clothes that have gone to the office, schools, or gyms, as the heat will kill any bed bug hitchhikers.

You may also introduce bed bugs into your home by purchasing second-hand furniture or appliances that are already infested. Once you bring these items into your home, the bed bugs will spread out and cause a full-blown infestation. Here's what to look for before moving any second-hand items into your Maryland home:

• Place all second-hand items on a white sheet outside of your home before moving them in. Check for any red or rust-colored stains on the sheet once they’ve been there for a few hours, as these stains indicate bed bugs are present.
• Use gloved hands to run your fingers along the seams and gaps in furniture and appliances. If your glove comes back stained with a red or rust color, or you unearth dead bed bugs, you shouldn’t bring the item into your home.
• Check the seams, cracks, and gaps in all furniture and appliances with a flashlight to ensure no bed bugs are hiding inside.

Expert Bed Bug Removal

Due to their small size and expert hitchhiking skills, bed bugs are a challenging pest to prevent. If you do end up with bed bugs in your home, call the professionals at American Pest. For over 30 years, we have solved pest problems with quality pest control that protects your home, family, and pets. Call us today for expert removal assistance.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/why-do-i-have-bed-bugs-in-my-maryland-home

The Trick to Getting Rid of Mice in Your Washington D.C. Home

Mice are one of the most common home-invading pests to encounter in your Washington D.C. home. It’s important to learn about mice and their habits to prevent a full-blown infestation.

Understanding Mice Infestations

House mice are one of the most common pests that you may find around your D.C. home and one of the most common mammals in the world. House mice are on the smaller side and typically only grow up to seven inches. They have large ears and tails that are virtually hairless and covered in scales. A mouse’s fur will be light brown or grey with white undertones.

Over the years, mice have lived alongside humans and developed a dependency on human life to sustain their own – mice can be found nesting close to food and water sources that humans provide and frequenting areas such as crawl spaces, walls, basements, attics, cabinets, and barns. 

Finding mice in your home can be a major problem. Besides the damage that a mouse, or several mice, can do to your home via their chewing or gnawing, this rodent can bring with them a serious risk of disease. Mice can spread hantavirus, Leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and Lymphocytic choriomeningitis through their droppings and via food contamination in your home.

What makes any problem with house mice so much worse is that they reproduce very quickly, and an infestation can quickly become out of control. Mice are also difficult to keep out of your home as they can chew through various materials and squeeze themselves through holes that are no bigger than 7mm, which is about the size of a regular pen.

House Mice Prevention Tips

There are a few mice prevention tips that you can undertake to deter mice from entering your property and into your Washington D.C. home:

• Proper food and trash storage are some of the most important prevention tactics you can take against mice. Ensure that the aroma from food, food waste, and other trash is properly sealed, as this is one of the biggest factors in attracting mice to your home.
• Seal up any gaps and cracks in your home’s windows, doors, or foundation. Make sure to be thorough, as mice can get into tiny openings. You may also want to use a material that mice can’t chew through to do the sealing, such as stainless-steel mesh.
• Clear yard debris and keep your grass trimmed low. This will reduce the places that mice can hide around your home and deter them from entering your property.
• Make sure that all food spills in your home are cleaned up promptly. You should also store leftover food properly and refrain from leaving dirty dishes out, which will certainly attract mice.
• Fix any leaks or moisture issues either inside or outside of your property. Like other mammals, mice are attracted to water, so eliminating any moisture sources can prevent them from targeting your home.

Professional Mouse Removal

House mice infestations can be near to impossible to remove entirely once they get started. At the first sign of mice in your home, you should contact the American Pest professionals. With proactive home pest control plans designed for each season, we will be able to target the source of the mice and return your home to rodent-free in no time.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/the-trick-to-getting-rid-of-mice-in-your-washington-d-c-home

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants on Your Maryland Property

Carpenter ants on your Maryland property can be a major issue when it comes to your home’s structural support and food storage. Understanding how to prevent carpenter ants from entering your property is essential to keeping your home in good shape.

Recognizing Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are one of the more recognizable ant species. They tend to grow between 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch and have three body segments. Each ant will have a pair of wings and a narrow waist and can range in color from dark black and brown to dark red; they may also be a combination of these colors. Carpenter ants are generally much larger than other ants and have heads shaped like hearts, while regular ants have a rounder-shaped head.

Carpenter ants can bring several problems into your home, the most major being destruction to your home’s wooden internal structures and furniture. Carpenter ants earn their name by chewing and tunneling through woods to make a series of passageways for their colonies to live in. Once they make it into your home, they will continue this behavior, causing serious destruction over time.

Another problem with carpenter ants is their ability to contaminate food. This ant doesn’t eat wood (they only tunnel through it), so once they enter your home and begin scavenging in your food storage areas, they can leave behind bacteria and germs. These may make you sick if you accidentally ingest the food the ants have touched.

Carpenter Ant Prevention Tips

There are several prevention tips that you can follow to ensure that ants stay out of your home and off your Maryland property as much as possible:

• Carpenter ants love moldy or moisture-laden wood. If you have leaks inside or outside your house, you should fix them and ensure proper ventilation is around your home. This will deter carpenter ants from tunneling through your home in the first place.
• Make sure that all food and trash, especially storage that is kept outside, is properly sealed. The aroma from these items can attract scavenging ants, encouraging them to move onto your property.
• Seal up all gaps and cracks around your home’s windows, doors, and foundation. Carpenter ants enjoy tunneling their way into your home through wood, but they can also enter via small gaps and then get to work chewing the wood inside your home.
• Clean up any food spills or waste as soon as possible. Keeping a clean home and eliminating dirty areas will deter the ants from seeking food in your house.
• Keep your yard free of debris and ensure that all hedges and trees are trimmed back away from your home. This will help keep the property around your home dry and sunny, something that can deter carpenter ants. Plus, a clear yard will prevent the ants from hiding out around your property.
• Make sure firewood and lumbar are stored at least 20 feet away from your property. This prevents ants that may be attracted to the wood from easily moving into your home.

Professional Ant Removal

Carpenter ant infestations can be difficult to remove on your own as they are often widespread throughout your home and property. Contact the professionals at American Pest at the first sign of an ant problem for expert assistance for safe, affordable solutions. Call us today and maintain the integrity of your home.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-to-get-rid-of-carpenter-ants-on-your-maryland-property

The Best Way To Keep Bed Bugs Out Of Your Washington D.C. Home

You can run, you can hide, but you certainly can’t avoid the presence of these bed-loving pests in a residential environment!

Parasitic insects like bed bugs are some of the most frustrating pests in Washington, D.C. These pests were almost completely exterminated in the mid-1950s and became nearly extinct in both homes and businesses. Due to ongoing scientific studies and the realization of harmful chemicals in bed bug treatments, elimination methods such as DEET were swiftly abolished. This eventually led to an uptick in bed bug activity and a subsequent boom in population. Today, these blood-feeding pests outnumber people by three to one.

Bed bugs can appear in almost any residential environment, from communal living to busy family homes. Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs do not care whether their host’s home is clean or dirty. If they can gain access to the home and find a warm place to hunker down, they will be perfectly fine with the property's level of cleanliness.

Infestations from bed bugs are no longer as rare as they once were. But how did these insects gain access to your home in the first place

How Bed Bug Infestations Usually Start In Washington D.C. Homes

Bed bug infestations usually begin with travel plans. These pests hide in popular travel hotspots around the area, including train stations, subways, and other suspect locations. Unsuspecting humans find ways to pick them up during their travels, creating more problems for other homeowners. What’s worse, bed bugs can go on to infest second-hand furniture and appliances, further complicating their treatment or extermination approach.

Here are some ways to identify potential bed bug infestations:

• Piles of bed bug exoskeletons 
• Excrement stains and feeding blotches 
• Strong, sweet, musky odors around rooms or appliances 
• Catching sight of a ¼ inch bed bug scurrying around the room 

If you think or know that a bed bug infestation is starting in your Washington D.C. home, you’ll need to reach out to American Pest NNC right away.

How To Handle Bed Bugs The Right Way: American Pest NNC

The sad truth is that bed bug prevention can never be 100% effective. Prevention steps are a wonderful first line of defense, but they are never entirely useful against marauding bed bugs.

If you do get bed bugs in your home, seek out some professional bed bug control exterminators with your best interests in mind: American Pest NNC.

The folks behind American Pest NNC have a bed bug inspection process like no other:

1. We start by checking for a bed bug presence inside the home with K9 specialists. One of our highly trained canine operatives will visit your home to assess the spread and affected areas of the infestation. 
2. All of our client’s households are treated with EPA registered heat treatments. By eliminating harmful chemicals and unnecessary products, we can protect your pets, property, and loved ones without introducing alien materials. 
3. American Pest NNC has the ability to eliminate bed bug infestations in one day with one simple treatment. Once we have a chance to apply our treatments to your home, you can return to your normal schedule within 24 hours.

Do your part to slow down the spread of Washington D.C. bed bugs. Contact the professional team at American Pest NNC.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/the-best-way-to-keep-bed-bugs-out-of-your-washington-d-c-home

How Carpet Beetle Infestations Start In Maryland Homes

You’ve heard of beetles, you’ve heard of carpets, but you’ve probably never heard of carpet beetles before!

Carpet beetles are an interesting type of pests found in Maryland homes. These tiny insects are now quite common to the area and can be found in a myriad of landscapes, gardens, and home interiors. Classified within the family dermestids, carpet beetles occur in hundreds of various species and types. The most common types of carpet beetles include the varied carpet beetle, the furniture carpet beetle, and the black carpet beetle. Here are some common characteristics shared between the three species:

• Round shaped bodies 
• Clubbed antennae 
• Thick exoskeletons 

Like certain moths and pantry pests in Maryland, the carpet beetle isn’t a real threat – it’s the larvae. Carpet beetle larvae feed on and destroy furniture, carpet, and fabrics in the home. Adult beetles fly into the home from open doors or windows or are transported inside on potted plants and greenery. They will then lay their eggs in furniture, clothing, and rugs. Long-term beetle activity will lead to infestations, which could continue long into the future.

How To Prevent Carpet Beetles From Entering Your Home

Worried about carpet beetles making their way into your home? You’re not alone. Here are a few quick and easy tips for prevention around Maryland properties:

• Check all screens in the home for holes, rips, or tears. 
• Make sure doors and windows remain closed or are screened. 
• Caulk and seal potential entry points with some form of waterproof sealant. 
• Thoroughly check all second-hand items before bringing them into the home. 
• If possible, get year-round pest control inspections from a reputable provider such as American Pest. 

Carpet beetles could also be found hidden in the yard and garden. Although there is no way to completely eliminate these creatures from your landscaping, you can practice good general pest control by eliminating standing water, maintaining the grass, and pruning overhanging greenery.

If carpet beetles do make their way into the house, turn to the professional team at American Pest.

American Pest Is Your Best Defense Against Carpet Beetles

Thanks to their diet of fabrics, clothing, and animal products, carpet beetles can thrive in a home if left alone. Long-term infestations can quickly become chronic problems and dramatically impact your quality of life.

If faced with a potential carpet beetle problem, the first and best thing to do is contact the professionals at American Pest. Our trained exterminators have everything it takes to eliminate potential problems, starting with these three steps:

1. We take great pride in our identification skills, quickly and easily determining the source of your worries. American Pest goes the extra mile by checking for entry points, pest prey, and any other consideration that could lead to a greater pest problem.
2. Our operatives work alongside you and your family to create an actionable plan for treatment. 
3. We create a pest-free guarantee that is simple and easy to follow – all pests are gone, or we come back to re-treat for free! 

American Pest is the leading provider of carpet beetle control in the Maryland area. Complete your home’s protection program by getting in contact with one of our highly skilled pros right away. We are standing by to receive your contact form at any time and ready to get you started on our effective home pest control services.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-carpet-beetle-infestations-start-in-maryland-homes

The Trick To Effective Rodent Control In Washington D.C.

Rodents are a typical home and business invading pest. In the Washington D.C. area, home and business owners might have to deal with these rodents:

Mice (house mice):

• Small species between 5 1/7 to 7 inches in length, including their scaly tail
• Grayish-brown to blackish fur with a lighter colored underbelly
• Large round ears
• Pointed nose

Rats (roof rat and Norway rat):

• Roof rats are much larger than mice, between 12 to 16 inches in length, including their tail

• Are dark brown or black with some gray and a lighter colored underbelly

• Pointed nose, large ears, and large eyes

• Roof rats get their name for being excellent climbers

• Norway rats are long and heavy, between 14 to 17 1/2 inches long, including their bi-colored tail

• Have shabby brown and black speckled fur with a lighter color underbelly 

• Rounded blunt nose, small black eyes, and small ears

Squirrels may also be an occasional invade in the D.C. area. No matter what kind of rodent you are dealing with, they can cause many problems. All rodents have teeth that never stop growing. To keep their teeth from overgrowing, rodents must constantly chew. If they are on a residential or commercial property, or worse, inside, they can damage the structure and personal belongings. Rodents are also known to spread a host of diseases and parasites, including, but not limited to, salmonellosis, dysentery, leptospirosis, fleas, and ticks.

Why Do Rodents Invade?

Rodents have a long history of human dependency, which is why homes and businesses are often subject to infestations. Rodents have become reliant on people for food, water, and shelter. Many species will consume almost anything from people and pet food to garbage and compost. Because of this, it can be challenging to know what exactly is attracting them.

A rodent infestation is more likely to happen because they only need a small space to squeeze through. Mice only need a dime-sized hole to get through, while rats only need a penny-sized hole.

Why Is It So Difficult To Get Rid Of Rodents?

Getting rid of any rodent infestation on your own is nearly impossible. This is because rodents are excellent at hiding, and without finding the entire infestation, you won’t be able to trap them effectively. It can also be hazardous to handle rodents if you are not appropriately trained.

The safest and most effective way to get rid of rodents is to contact professionals. If you live in Washington D.C., you should call American Pest.

What Can I Do To Prevent Rodents?

In addition to recurring professional guidance, which is your best line of defense against rodents, you should also implement the following tips to help keep rodents away:

• Remove food sources by storing people and pet food properly, taking the garbage out regularly, and using tight-fitting lids on garbage bins. You should also remove bird feeders from your property and clean up any crumbs and spills in your kitchen.

• Remove entry points by inspecting the exterior of your home and sealing any cracks, crevices, and gaps. Make sure to check around windows and doors, using screens and door sweeps. Using a chimney cap, vent covers, and repairing holes on the roofline is also essential as roof rats can easily get in up there.

• Remove harborage areas by storing woodpiles away from your home and decluttering both the inside and outside of your home.

Call our experts at American Pest, and we will inspect your property for entry points, active nests, and conducive factors, all of which will lead to the successful exclusion of rodents and help keep them from coming back again. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you!

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/the-trick-to-effective-rodent-control-in-washington-d-c

The Best Way To Protect Your Washington D.C. Property From Termites

What's yellow and white and orange all over? None other than these sneaky insects with a penchant for wooden objects! 

Termites are quite possibly the most destructive insects in Washington DC. These creatures consume wood in order to survive, and break down the cellulose found in the grains to feed their Queens and colonies. For the most part, termites choose to keep to themselves. Their quiet demeanors and silent infestation procedures make them extremely difficult to catch by surprise. 

• Termites can be identified by a few simple characteristics: 

• Termites have six legs and broadly shaped bodies.

• Most termites are yellow, cream colored, or off-white in color.

• The head of a termite is often large and orange in appearance.

• Soldier termites have large mandibles that are used to protect their colony.

• Some termites (sexually mature alates) are equipped with wings. 

Termites aren't dangerous insects, but their functions are still important to the natural world. In fact, these beneficial creatures are absolutely vital for the continuation of life. By breaking down rotting wood and trees, termites create new opportunities for life and regrowth. 

Because termites are such numerous pests, they are considered to be a delicacy in some parts of the world. Dipped in chocolate or tossed in spices, these creatures have many uses in cultures around the globe. However, they are still bad news for property owners in the Washington D.C. area. 

How To Tell If You Have A Termite Problem 

Because of their silent composures, termites may go unnoticed for some time. This allows them to wreak havoc across your home and property, sometimes leading to irreparable damage. According to researchers, termites cause more than $5 billion dollars’ worth of damage each year. Much of this will not be covered by homeowners insurance policies, and requires out of pocket spending. This is precisely why annual inspections are so important to the ongoing protection of your home and property. 

Here’s how to tell if you have a termite problem around your home or business: 

• The presence of thin sawdust (sometimes called a frass) near the walls or wooden structures of your home.

• Quiet clicking or scratching sounds in the walls or ceiling of the home.

• Tight fitting doors and windows that do not close properly.

• Sagging walls, ceilings, or support structures around the house.

• Spots of ‘water damage’ on the roof that are soft to the touch. 

Contrary to popular belief, trying to get rid of termite infestations on your own isn't such a good idea. Some over the counter tools and products simply do nothing, while others  even make the situation worse. In any case, relying on a professional termite elimination company such as American Pest is always the best way to go.  

Handling A Termite Problem Like A Pro With American Pest

As with many other species of Washington D.C. pest, the best way to handle an ongoing termite infestation is with professional assistance. American Pest is one of the area’s most trusted providers of termite control for residential, commercial, and specialty properties. 

Contact American Pest at the first sign of a termite problem. If you think or know that a termite presence is already obvious around your property, schedule an inspection right away by calling the Washington D.C. office. We are standing by to lend a hand any way we can! 

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/the-best-way-to-protect-your-washington-d-c-property-from-termites

Are Wolf Spiders In Maryland Dangerous?

With their name alone, Wolf spiders might instill a sense of fear, but the truth is they are not a significant risk to people or pets. Although this is the case, it might be difficult to convince people, especially those afraid of spiders. Wolf spiders are very scary looking with:

• Large and hairy bodies between ½ to 2 inches long

• Grey with brown to dark grey markings

• Large eyes

Another factor that can make wolf spiders intimidating is that they don’t use a web to catch prey; instead, they hunt for their food. Using their coloring as camouflage, these spiders stalk their prey at night. Instead of a web, they will dig or use tunnels made by other animals or live in vegetation.

While wolf spiders, like most other species, are shy and will keep their distance from people, they will bite if threatened. You should keep in mind that wolf spiders are often confused for the difficult to identify, brown recluse, which along with the black widow, are the two medically dangerous spiders in the country. 

However, just because wolf spiders aren't dangerous doesn’t change the fact that no one wants these spiders living in their home. As a Maryland resident, you should know what you can do to keep them away.

Where Do Wolf Spiders Live?

You might have heard of house spiders, which are usually born inside your home and are unlikely to have ever been outside. Wolf spiders don’t fall under the category of house spiders because they prefer to remain outdoors.

As previously said, wolf spiders prefer burrows to live in instead of webs, although they still can create them. Because of their hunting habits, they are more suited to the outdoors. 

Although wolf spiders prefer to be outside, they may find themselves inside by accident. They might wander in through an open door or window if they are stalking prey. If this does happen, you might find them in closets, behind or under furniture, behind doors, or in house plant containers. Essentially, they will look for a place that is dark and secluded from people.

If you have issues with wolf spiders on your Maryland property, you don’t have to sit by and let them live there. With the help of professionals, you can keep wolf spiders and their prey away.

Who Can Help With Wolf Spiders?

If you live in Maryland, the best way to keep wolf spiders and prey controlled on your property is with American Pest. When it comes to any spider species, the most important part of prevention is keeping their prey away. With American Pest, you can choose from three customizable control plans to keep prey away. These plans include:

• Preferred Care- our most affordable solution. This includes year-round coverage, up to 4 services each year, exterior treatment, guaranteed interior service, exterior de-webbing, exterior rodent prevention, and coverage for 30+ home-invading pests.

• Preferred Care Plus- includes all that is covered in the Preferred Care plan and termite monitoring.

• Preferred Care Complete- our most trusted solution that offers everything in the Preferred Care plus plan with the Sentricon® Always Active termites control system.

We also offer a plan that targets mosquitoes and ticks, which can be especially helpful during those warm summer months when these pests are most active. All of our programs are backed by our Pest Free Pledge, ensuring your home is pest-free as long as you are working with American Pest. So, don’t wait; give us a call today to get pests under control and effectively keeping spiders away with our home pest control and commercial pest control services.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/are-wolf-spiders-in-maryland-dangerous

How To Keep Stink Bugs Out Of Your Maryland Home This Fall

Stink bugs are one of the most unpleasant nuisance pests that you can have in your home. They might not be the most dangerous insects, but they top the list when it comes to foul odor. If you’ve noticed these putrid pests crawling around your property, spare your nostrils and learn how to keep stink bugs out of your Maryland home this fall.

About Stink Bugs

Stink bugs are large, shield-shaped insects measuring around 3/4 of an inch. They are about as wide as they are long, with six legs jutting out like stilts, making stink bugs appear bigger than they are. These pests have wings and will not hesitate to take flight. Their diet consists primarily of live plants, and unlike other home-infesting pests, they prefer to spend their time outdoors. Stink bugs found in the home are usually seeking shelter from the cold.

The brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) was accidentally introduced to the United States in the 1990s, most likely stowed away in shipping containers from Asia. These stink bugs have a mottled brown and white color and have spread throughout most of the Eastern U.S.

As their name implies, stink bugs release a powerful smell when threatened or crushed. Depending on whom you ask, the odor isn’t all that bad, resembling strong herbs like cilantro more than the sort of rancid smell we often associate with the word “stink.” However, this herbaceous odor is quite strong and can linger for hours.

Why You’re Seeing Stink Bugs

Stink bugs like to seek shelter at the first sign of cold weather. During the fall months, they stealthily infiltrate homes and businesses to hide until spring. Walls, attics, and crawl spaces are all typical areas around the home where stink bugs rest during a period of inactivity called “diapause.”

If you’ve seen stink bugs around the house, it’s most likely because they were overwintering in your home. Stink bugs emerge from hiding at the first sign of warm weather and usually gather on the sunny side of the house. Unseasonable warmth may even cause them to emerge during the winter months.

Are Stink Bugs Dangerous?

They’re stinky, and they’re creepy, but stink bugs aren’t dangerous to people. They aren’t known to spread disease or parasites and won’t cause any damage to property or belongings. The only real threat that stink bugs pose is to your garden. Their mouthparts are specially designed to pierce stems and roots of vegetation and slurp up the juices inside. Stink bugs will feed on a wide variety of plants, from prized flowers to crops to ordinary weeds.

If anything, stink bugs are a nuisance. They may infest your home in large numbers, which can be quite an unsettling sight given their large size and ability to fly. They can’t bite through human skin, but handling these bugs can provoke them to emit that trademark odor. Although stink bugs are on the mild side when it comes to danger, that doesn’t mean you want to share your home with them.

How To Keep Stink Bugs Out

If you’re looking to keep stink bugs out of your Maryland home this fall, nothing beats professional assistance from American Pest. We offer comprehensive residential pest control services to protect your property from a wide variety of nuisance pests, including stink bugs. Our state-licensed technicians will evaluate your home for any signs of stink bug activity, eliminate your infestation, and provide ongoing protection throughout the year. Don’t let stink bugs ruin your Maryland home; call American Pest today.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-to-keep-stink-bugs-out-of-your-maryland-home-this-fall

American Pest Acquires Capitol Pest

Fulton, MD, September 30, 2021—American Pest, the leading provider in modern, preventive pest management throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia acquires Capitol Pest–a leading family-owned pest control company of Beltsville, MD.

Founded in 1936 by J Douglas Rollow, Capitol Pest has spent 85 years perfecting its eco-friendly services and providing customizable pest management solutions to homes and businesses throughout Washington D.C., Montgomery County, and the surrounding DMV area. Brian Schoonmaker took over Capitol Pest in 2015 where he has spent the past 6 years modernizing operations, building density in their current markets, adding new service areas, and expanding their service offerings.

“Capitol Pest has a longstanding reputation for high quality and responsive customer service. Capitol is an ideal partner for American Pest to continue building the market-leading pest management organization in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia.  I am excited to welcome our new colleagues and customers to the American Pest and Anticimex family.” says Michael Schmitt, President of American Pest.

Brian Schoonmaker, Owner and President of Capitol Pest adds, “the customer has always been our priority at Capitol Pest. From the first time we speak on the phone to completing services and solving pest problems, our team has always been driven to provide that top-notch customer experience you’ve come to know and trust. With American Pest, that same drive and passion flows through the organization and will continue to provide opportunities for both our team and our customers.”

Capitol Pest marks the 15^th acquisition for American Pest following its acquisition by Anticimex in 2016.

PCO M&A and Succession Specialists, LLC represented and acted as executive financial advisors to Capitol Pest in these transactions.

About American Pest:  American Pest, an Anticimex Company, has been providing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) solutions since 1925. Our team consists of over 400 brand ambassadors—specialists in pest prevention and customer experience. We credit our longstanding tradition of excellence to our people, who provide quality pest control solutions to over 50,000 homes and businesses and millions of square feet of federal offices and institutions throughout Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. 

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/american-pest-acquires-capitol-pest

American Pest Pledges a $10,000 Donation to Breast Care for Washington

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the perfect time to raise awareness about this disease. Did you know breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women? Read on to learn how you can join American Pest in the fight against breast cancer.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, American Pest is excited to announce that we will be continuing our partnership with Breast Care for Washington, a local nonprofit that provides breast cancer screenings and care to women in D.C.—where the highest breast cancer mortality rate in the country exists. While the reasons for this alarming statistic vary, doctors and scientists agree that early detection is the best defense in the battle against breast cancer. Therefore, breast cancer screenings provided by Breast Care for Washington will be a prime factor in improving the mortality rate throughout the D.C. region

In the past, we’ve pledged to donate $1 for every service in October, however, this year we wanted to raise the bar. American Pest has pledged to donate $10,000 during the month of October, which will be the largest donation that American Pest has ever made!

American Pest’s team of pest professionals will be wearing Pink Masks throughout Maryland, DC, and Virginia to show our support and start generating conversations with customers to raise awareness. In addition to their record-breaking donation, American Pest employees will have the opportunity to contribute their own donations through our employee recognition program, Bonusly where they can choose to donate anywhere from $1-10 at a time.

But wait, that’s not all! For the first time ever, new American Pest customers will have the opportunity to be a part of the battle against breast cancer as we will be offering them the option to round up the cost of their initial service to the amount of their choice.

All donated funds collected from American Pest, their pest professionals, and their customers will go to Breast Care for Washington, a community-centered screening organization that assists medically underserved women by providing no-cost mammograms, healthcare education, clinical breast examinations, and patient navigation services. Breast Care for Washington also has the only 3D mammography facility providing direct services within a community health clinic setting.

Breast Care for Washington was founded in 2012 by Dr. Regina Hampton, a breast surgeon, and Beth Beck, M.A., CHES, former executive director of Capital Breast Care Center. The organization’s mission is to reduce breast cancer mortality in the Washington, D.C. area by promoting access to breast cancer screening, diagnostics, and treatment to all women regardless of their ability to pay. For information about BCFW or to make a charitable donation, please visit breastcaredc.org.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/american-pest-pledges-a-10-000-donation-to-breast-care-for-washington

The Best Tick Control For Maryland Properties

In Maryland, we have some of the most enjoyable weather (for most of the year) for playing out in the yard and enjoying time with our pets. Unfortunately, this could put you and your family at risk of a dangerous tick infestation. The more you learn about ticks in the Maryland area, the more you’ll realize why proper tick control is an absolute must for your Maryland home and yard.

Dangerous Yard Invaders, Problematic Parasites

The local ticks in the area that typically plague Maryland homes are black or brown in color and typically smaller than your pinky fingernail. These pests may be small, but they can be some of the biggest nuisances in the industry. The problem with ticks in your yard is that they can spread dangerous diseases to their hosts as they fill up on your blood. These pests like to cling to your pets or your own body in areas of high blood circulation to feed on your blood and fill up their small, flexible bodies. 

That’s why they can be challenging to crush (since their bodies are elastic and allow them to fill up on blood). You will usually find them on your scalp or in the crevices of your body, such as armpits, behind the knee, or other areas of high blood circulation. When you pull a tick off of your skin, you probably won’t be able to crush it, so flushing it down the toilet in your home is the most effective way to dispose of them. 

If you think you will not experience a tick problem because you don’t have pets, you are dangerously mistaken. These pests will usually be introduced to your yard by host animals such as rodents and deer that invade your property. Once the ticks attach to your skin, they can be very dangerous disease transmitters, often resulting in harmful illnesses like Lyme disease, tularemia, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. That’s why it’s important to check yourself and your pets for ticks anytime you enjoy outside activities in the yard.

Preventing A Tick Infestation

Since ticks are usually introduced to your yard through wildlife, proper wildlife prevention habits can help you reduce your chances of a dangerous tick infestation. Here are the best ways to protect your yard and lower your chances of tick problems:

1. Maintain the lawn properly. 

2. Control moisture problems in the yard to attract fewer rodents and other wildlife to the property. 

3. Declutter the yard to make a less conducive environment for wildlife. 

4. Store outdoor food and trash properly. 

5. Get your pets medicated by a veterinarian. 

6. Check your pets and yourself before you walk inside your home. 

7. Trim areas of tall grass and foliage near the edge of the lawn, as these are highly desirable areas for ticks to live in.

Even though these methods can reduce your chances of a tick infestation, there is not much you can do to get rid of current tick problems if you have already incurred these issues. That’s why American Pest residential technicians can inspect your property for conducive environments for ticks and current tick problems that can endanger your family. 

We will treat your home and yard with our innovative tick control solutions that are tough on pests and easy on everything else, creating a less conducive environment for both ticks and the wildlife that will introduce ticks to your property. If you want to keep your home and family safe from tick problems, then partner with the best available pest technicians in the area today. Give us a call to schedule an inspection with one of our American Pest residential pest control technicians.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/the-best-tick-control-for-maryland-properties

Is It Dangerous To Have Crickets In My Washington D.C. Home?

If you have crickets in or around your Washington D.C. home, you may want to get the facts from the professional pest control experts before relying on what most people say about crickets. Even though crickets are often considered a special guest in the nearby woods, things aren’t always as they seem.

In fact, crickets are some of the most problematic pests in the Washington, D.C. area, so it’s important to see past the charm that pop-culture places on these pests. The more you learn about what crickets can do to your home and family in reality, the more you’ll realize why partnering with the pros is the best way to protect yourself from crickets. 

The Ugly Truth About Crickets

The common house crickets in the Washington D.C. area are small and typically light brown in color with dark brown markings. You can tell a cricket from other pests by its angled back legs that allow it to jump out of harm’s way. Crickets are well known for their iconic chirping noise, but many people also recognize crickets as a friendly cartoon conscience guide or even a delicacy when covered in chocolate. But don’t let these opinions fool you. Crickets can be even more than a nuisance in your home. They can also be destructive and dangerous. 

Think about how loud crickets can be around your property, and then consider what a robust infestation would sound like within your walls. If you have ever tried sleeping with a cricket infestation, you’ll understand just why prompt and proper eradication methods are necessary. Plus, crickets will invade your home in large numbers and chew on a variety of household items, from furniture to electrical wiring and more. That’s why crickets can be expensive to deal with overtime. 

Many people also fail to recognize the danger behind a cricket infestation, but they carry diseases that they can transmit through contact. While these diseases aren’t necessarily fatal, many of them can cause painful sores. 

Proper Cricket Prevention 

The problem with crickets is that they can reproduce quickly within your walls, and they can squeeze in and out of the cracks and crevices around your home. This makes crickets extremely difficult to control once they get into your house. Since they’re typically some of the most problematic pests to keep out or get rid of, you’ll have difficulty trying to eradicate them on your own.

However, there is some good news. You’re not alone in the fight against crickets. We understand how much of a nuisance they are, so we’re always willing to share what you can do on your own to prevent attracting crickets to your home. Crickets are drawn to your home mostly because of moisture problems throughout the property, so practicing effective moisture control can allow you to reduce cricket attraction to your home. Here are the best ways to accomplish this goal: 

• Proper lawn maintenance 

• Proper ventilation in basements and crawl spaces

• Dehumidifiers in areas of problematic moisture buildup 

Along with moisture control, you should also reduce any loose crumbs or poorly stored food and trash throughout the property. 

Partnering With The Pros

Unfortunately, even proper prevention methods cannot guarantee you a cricket-free home the way that partnering with an American Pest residential expert can. With careful inspections, recommendations on limiting conducive conditions for crickets, and innovative pest control solutions, we can help you create a cricket-free home on your Washington, D.C. property.

At American Pest, we put your satisfaction above all else, so you’ll always feel like our top priority. Don’t wait for crickets to endanger your home and family. Call us today to schedule an inspection with one of our expert residential pest control technicians. 

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/is-it-dangerous-to-have-crickets-in-my-washington-d-c-home

What To Do About Black Widow Spiders On Your Maryland Property

Whether you watch them on the big screen or read about them in books, black widow spiders are one of the most famous pests in the world. They are also some of the most dangerous pests that will invade your Maryland property. Even though they are rare in most areas, a black widow spider infestation could be a serious problem in a place like Maryland, so don’t sweep these potential problems under the rug. Get the facts on the infamous black widow spider and what you can do to keep your family safe today.

What To Look For To Identify A Black Widow Problem

Black widow spiders are usually the size of a dime with their legs outstretched. They feature a black, bulbous abdomen with the famous red hourglass marking. This is one of many black widow spider myths, as this hourglass shape is actually two triangles facing each other, often not even touching. 

However, the danger is not a myth. Black widow spiders have an incredibly venomous bite as one of the only spiders that can transfer their venoms to humans. A black widow bite can result in nausea, fever, skin irritation, swelling, paralysis, and even death in certain cases when proper medical attention isn’t sought.

That’s why it’s important to recognize a black widow problem early. Black widow spiders will inhabit the low traffic areas of your home and yard, such as a cluttered garage, garden areas, within rocks and holes in the ground or under trees, or in your basement amongst your stored items. They prefer to seek shelter in areas of coverage where they are likely to encounter more of their desired pest prey. That’s why it’s important to wear gloves when working in the yard or reaching into these kinds of areas as you work in the garage or basement.

What You Can Do To Protect Your Family

Black widow spiders are some of the most difficult pests to control, as they are nearly impervious to the kinds of pest control solutions you can get at the store. However, you can use their appetite against them. Since they will only invade your home when searching for their pest prey, limiting pest activity on your property can help reduce spider attraction to your home. Here are the best ways that you can create a less conducive environment for pests on your property:

• Maintain the lawn regularly. 

• Control moisture issues throughout the property. 

• Declutter the low traffic areas of the home. 

• Store food and trash properly. 

• Maintain a clutter-free yard. 

• Store outdoor food and trash in proper receptacles. 

• Seal up any potential entry points, cracks, and crevices.

Even though these methods can help you reduce your chances of a spider infestation, there is not much you can do to get rid of a pest problem or serious black widow problem on your own. Even attempting to utilize these DIY methods after an infestation has gained a foothold in your home can be detrimental, as you might give yourself a false sense of security as the infestation grows where you can’t see it. 

That’s why partnering with an American Pest residential pest control expert is the best way to get rid of a black widow spider problem in your home or yard. If you notice these pests or excessive webbing around the home or in the cluttered areas of your basement, garage, crawlspace, and yard, then give us a call to schedule an inspection. Don’t allow your family to be in danger any longer. Reach out to us today to take your first step toward a spider-free home.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/what-to-do-about-black-widow-spiders-on-your-maryland-property

How To Keep Silverfish Away From Your Maryland Home

As a homeowner in Maryland, there are a variety of pest control problems that you’ll need to deal with. However, when you try to deal with them on your own, things can get messy. In particular, when it comes to silverfish, these pests can be some of the most frustrating to deal with on your own. The good news is, with American Pest residential experts by your side, you’re not alone. Here is our rundown of silverfish control that we’ve learned from our years of experience protecting Maryland homes.

Nuisances In Numbers

Silverfish are very small, silvery-white pests that will invade your home in large numbers. They actually resemble tiny lobsters, only white in color with a shiny coat. As members of the crustacean family, they are highly attracted to humid, damp environments both in your home and your yard.

While these pests do not necessarily transmit bacteria or diseases like other local pests, they can be a severe nuisance because of their large numbers. They will search through your home for any starchy food sources, which is their main source of sustenance. This can include stored, dry goods like cereals and pasta, young vegetation in the yard, decaying matter in the soil, or even paper products around your house. Silverfish have been known to chew on the wallpaper, toilet paper, and cardboard in Maryland homes. Anything stored in a cardboard box will be at risk since silverfish can chew through this material very easily. 

Proper Prevention Habits

Since silverfish invade in large numbers, it can be challenging to keep them out of your home, especially considering their small size and flexible bodies. To prevent attracting silverfish to your property, try the following methods of prevention:

1. Identify potential entry points and seal them off with caulking. 

2. Reduce moisture issues by using dehumidifiers in basements and crawlspaces, as these are frequent areas for silverfish problems. 

3. Maintain the lawn regularly to ensure even moisture dispersion throughout the property. 

4. Store your food in secure, plastic containers. 

5. Store trash inside and outside the home properly and securely.

6. Reduce pest activity on your property, as dead/decaying pests can also attract silverfish. 

Even though these methods can effectively prevent a silverfish infestation, there is very little you can do to get rid of a problem on your own. That’s why you should be aware of the signs of a silverfish infestation which include silverfish carcasses, torn-up paper goods throughout the home, or large gatherings of these pests in the low-traffic areas of the home. 

When To Get Professional Help

When you see the signs of a silverfish infestation, it’s time to get professional help immediately. Please don’t wait until the infestation becomes so robust that you’re unable to do anything about it. Many homeowners make the mistake of using store-bought sprays or vacuuming. Still, these methods will almost always leave silverfish (or their eggs) behind to continue wreaking havoc within your home; often in places you won’t even realize. 

That’s why partnering with an American Pest residential pest control expert can be your secret weapon against pests. All of our treatments start with a thorough inspection to identify the source of your silverfish problems, and then we will apply the proper treatments that can keep your home and family safe from these frustrating nuisances. 

We will consistently follow up to ensure the problems don’t come back, and we will always make you feel like our top priority. That’s the American Pest difference, and it’s what you’ll get from our technicians every time. Give us a call today to schedule an inspection for your Maryland home.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/how-to-keep-silverfish-away-from-your-maryland-home

Washington D.C.'s Complete Guide To Odorous House Ant Control

If ants are making their way around your Washington D.C. home, they can bring a variety of problems to you and your family. However, if it’s the odorous house ant, then this is another problem entirely. Please find out how common these Washington D.C. area home invaders are and how to keep them out before the smell becomes the least of your worries.

What’s That Smell?

Odorous house ants are some of the smaller ants that will invade your Washington, D.C., area home. This makes them incredibly difficult to control. These ants, typically brown in color, will invade your home in large numbers. They come in search of food sources that can sustain their colony, so they will send in a few ants at a time to scout the area. If you notice these small, brown ants scouting around your kitchen or garage, then you could have a huge problem on your hands.

Many people discount odorous house ants, thinking that there are more important pest problems to deal with. However, odorous house ants are considered a nuisance ant because, even though they pose no real threat to health or property, they can contaminate food sources while foraging. 

Plus, they do emit a foul odor as they forage around your home. This odor will be even more intense when the ants are disturbed or if you crush the ants. That’s why trying to control odorous house ants on your own will typically make the problem and the smell much worse than it needs to be. Odorous house ants, even more so than most pests, need to be dealt with professionally. 

The Top Five Ways To Prevent Odorous House Ants

Even though controlling these ants on your own can be difficult, there are certain ways you can reduce their attraction to your property and make your home much less conducive to these invasive pests. Here are the top five ways that you can reduce odorous house ant attraction to your property: 

1. Identify and seal potential entry points with silicone-based caulking. (Remember that odorous house ants are tiny, so they will typically be able to squeeze through most of the cracks and crevices around your property).

2. Control moisture issues around the property by using a dehumidifier in the basement and crawlspace along with proper ventilation strategies.

3. Store food and trash properly both inside and outside the house.

4. Practice regular cleaning habits to avoid loose crumbs.

5. Partner with an American Pest residential pest control technician to avoid serious long-term issues at the first sign of a problem.

By utilizing all of these techniques, you’ll be able to create a much less conducive environment to a potential infestation. However, even though all of these methods can help you reduce odorous ant attraction to your home, it can be tough to get rid of them on your own once they have invaded. That’s why nothing can guarantee you an ant-free home the way an American Pest residential pest control technician can.

We have years of experience in the industry and the area backing our services, with a vigorous emphasis on customer service. When you notice the signs of odorous house ants trickling through your kitchen a few at a time, don’t wait until the whole colony shows up. If you want to feel like your pest control company’s top priority every time, then give us a call today to schedule an inspection with one of our American Pest residential pest control experts. 

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/washington-d-c-s-complete-guide-to-odorous-house-ant-control

Maryland's Complete Bed Bug Control Guide

Bed bugs are small parasites that prefer feeding on human blood, and generally approach their victims while they are sleeping. Bed bugs have a flat oval body style, appear in shades of red or brown, and might resemble an apple seed. After entering the interior of a property, female bed bugs can lay dozens of eggs per week, which soon creates a more significant infestation. Those who have bed bugs on the premises often awaken with small red and irritated patches of skin. Fortunately, bed bugs are not known for spreading diseases like fleas, ticks, and other parasitic pests.

Common Signs Of Bed Bugs

Here are some of the most typical indications that you may have a bed bug problem in your home:

• They often leave small blood stains and a dark trail of their feces on sheets, pillows, mattresses, and other bedding materials.

• Bed bugs usually lay small white eggs and they also shed their outer layers of skin.

• Often the infestation generates a musty and unpleasant odor, particularly when large numbers of bugs exist.

In some cases, bed bugs are mistakenly identified as some other type of bug. Using these common indicators will help you avoid this. 

The Problems With Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Treatment Options

Avoid making the mistake that many property owners do when responding to intrusions from bed bugs. Many of these individuals purchase DIY treatment options from online retailers and local home improvement stores that are marketed by making sensationalized claims of being a quick and easy solution. Some of these products include bait stations, aerosol sprays, and granular formulas that are incapable of eradicating significant infestations. 

Some of the store-bought treatment options also might contain harsh chemical agents that pose a health risk. The best means of responding to these types of problems is to promptly contact a licensed professional that will get the job done right.

Our Proven Bed Bug Treatment Programs 

 One of the key aspects of any treatment plan for exterminating bed bugs must initially involve confirming the presence of these pests and determining their locations. American Pest performs detailed on-site K-9 inspections that are among the most reliable means of promptly identifying bed bugs. These professionally-trained dogs can detect bed bugs in a matter of minutes that are located beneath carpets or baseboards and even in areas of excessive clutter.

Our experts use various different treatment options based on individual circumstances. We have specialized insecticide products that are only available to certified professionals that produce excellent results. In some cases, bed bugs will retreat to other areas of the property when the chemicals are applied; therefore, we have special application methods that prevent this potential spread. 

We also use non-chemical treatment options such as vacuuming. People and pets must vacate the premises before any chemical treatment but generally may return in roughly one hour. Our customers always receive a preparation list after we schedule a treatment date.

Experienced Provider Of Pest Control Solutions 

Did you know that American Pest Solutions is a locally-owned organization that has been providing pest control services for home and business owners in the Maryland region for more than 95 years? We attribute our sustainability to a firm commitment to providing the highest quality customer service. Also, we adhere to many of the guidelines and best practices of the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and other industry leaders. 

In addition to bed bugs, our team of seasoned professionals has the knowledge and tools to safely and efficiently eliminate intrusions from stinging insects, rodents, termites, and a host of other bothersome and potentially harmful pests. Contact our office today to schedule an evaluation.

source https://www.americanpest.net/blog/post/maryland-complete-bed-bug-control-guide