Monday, May 30, 2022

Pest Control Tips: How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches



There are only a few things that are more frustrating and infuriating than a cockroach infestation. These pesky critters will make themselves comfortable in your living area, bathroom, kitchen, and other spots in your home. The problem is that they multiply rapidly, which makes matters worse. In case you are tired of sharing your home with these pests, then you should know some pest control tips to get rid of cockroaches.

Pest Control Tips: Types of Cockroaches

German cockroaches and American cockroaches are the most common species of cockroaches present here in Myrtle Beach. German cockroaches are dark brown and they are about ½” to 5/8 in size. On the other hand, American cockroaches are much darker and also bigger at around 1-1/2” to 2”. Both kinds of cockroaches are active all year round, but they almost always come out at night to look for food and water. Cockroaches are considered nocturnal creatures and that is why they mostly spend their days tucked away in the dark and hidden parts of your house.

How Cockroaches Enter Your House

A few things that attract cockroaches to your house include garbage, dirty dishes in the sink, crumbs on the counters or floor, leftover food, and excess moisture. These pests enter your house for different reasons but attraction is just the first part. They still need to get into your house to wreak havoc. So how do they get in? Simple. They get in through cracks and crevices, holes in the pipes and vents, hitching a ride through boxes or other times, and more.

Pest Control Tips To Get Rid Of Cockroaches

Clean your house – this may seem obvious but cockroaches like dirt and filth. So the easiest way to make sure that cockroaches are kept out of your home is by making sure that it is kept clean. Don’t forget to wash the dishes and clean the spills and crumbs right away. You must take the garbage before you go to bed and get rid of grease from your stovetop. Be sure to seal food in containers and mop regularly.

Store-bought traps – Aside from hiring professional pest control in Myrtle Beach, an effective way of getting rid of cockroaches is the kind of trap found in home improvement stores and supermarkets. The device will use bait or scent to attract the cockroaches. When they come out to check, the roaches will be caught in a very sticky substance, trapping them inside. You may have to wait up to two weeks to see results so make sure that you check it periodically.

Store-bought baits – another cockroach treatment is to get rid of cockroaches is to use store-bought baits. Chemical baits conceal insecticide as a source of food. Roaches ingest the insecticide and they die once they return to their nest. When other roaches eat them, they also will also get poisoned and die. Be sure to add the chemical baits close to garbage cans and blow the sinks as well as cabinets in bathrooms and kitchens.

Liquid Concentrates – are made to deter cockroaches. When diluted, the liquid could be sprayed into crevices and cracks as well as other places where these pests like to hide.

Boric acid – is considered one of the most effective home remedies for cockroaches and is ideal for all those who would like to go for a DIY approach.

Call a residential pest control company – cockroaches are known to be very persistent. Sometimes, even if you follow these DIY tips, you may still wind up having these infestations. If it seems like nothing is working, call a pest control company right away.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you are having problems with a cockroach infestation.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Three Reasons Pest Control is Important in Summertime



Your business should look and run its best during the summer. Pests can be a problem for many businesses and they can cause problems in many ways. Businesses can benefit from performing pest control during this time.

Summer Pest Control

  1. Warm temperatures are a favorite environment for many pests

Many pests become more active in summer because of the warmer temperatures. Pest activity is more common in summer because of the possibility that new plant life will grow due to increased rainfall.

Although plants can look great in your business, they can also help provide the nutrients that pests and insects need. Your landscape can look tired and unmaintained if pests are allowed to eat a wide variety of grasses and leaves.

Pest control can be done in the summer to help keep your plants healthy.

  1. Summer is a time when the population of pests and rodents increases

Many people believe that rodents only enter buildings in winter to find warmth and shelter. But rodents and other pests could also enter buildings during the summer.

An infestation of insects in your home can be a food source for rodents during the summer. Rodents living in buildings during summer can pose a problem because they breed in the warmer months. This can lead to a rapid increase in the number of rodents in the building. It is often best to do pest control in summer to reduce the population.

  1. Early maintenance prevents damage

Although you may think that pest control in Myrtle Beach is unnecessary unless your business is experiencing an immediate problem with pests, it can lead to costly and time-consuming remediation. You can prevent pest problems from ever happening by performing pest control prior to your business starts fighting them.

Routine pest control can also help you spot problems before they cause more damage to your property. Zap Pest Control Inc. will help you prevent pest problems from developing. This can protect your business’s interior and exterior.

Because of the warm weather and easy access to food, pests are more likely to appear in summer. This can have a devastating effect on your business. Pest control can be a good way to maintain a healthy landscape, keep pests under control, and protect your business from any potential damage. Zap Pest Control Inc. will help you ensure that your business is pest-free.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in getting rid of pests from your property.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Monday, May 23, 2022

Termite Service: Understanding The Termite Lifecycle



Spring brings out the beauty of flowers and it marks the return of warmer weather. Spring is the start of peak pest season in the pest control sector. This means that most insects have emerged from their winter hiding places and are mating, sometimes even making their way into our homes. Unfortunately, termites are one of the biggest threats to homes and properties. When that happens, you’ll need professional a termite service.

When Do You Need Termite Service?

Termites have existed for over 120 million years. Termites are social insects that live in colonies in wood or ground. Termites eat the wood cellulose and other wood by-products like paper. They cause property damage of $5 billion each year, according to estimates.

Worse, homeowners insurance does not usually cover this type of damage. Additionally, because termites are often invisible, their damage can go undetected for years until serious termite problems arise. It is important to know the termite life cycle and signs that a colony has established itself in your home.

Termite Life Cycle

There are over 2,000 termite species worldwide, with 50 of these species found in the United States.

A colony is composed of soldiers, workers and swarmers. The colony’s workers maintain it, build or repair the nest, forage for food, and provide support for the colony. Soldiers, which are sterile, are responsible for protecting the colony. Both soldiers and workers do not have wings.

Swarmers are also referred to as reproductives. They have two pairs of wings that lie flat on the abdomen. After the last freeze, which is usually around 70 degrees, the young adult males and females emerge from their nests in large numbers.

To attract male termites, the female termites releases mating hormones, which are similar to perfume. The male termites will break off their wings when they find a female that is attractive, which signifies they are now a married couple. The new couple chooses a nest site, mate and then become the king and queen of the new colony. It is not uncommon for the queen to live 30 years or more.

It can take up to three years for a colony to mature and produce its own swarmers, depending on what species it is. The queen can lay between zero and 22 eggs in her first year.

A subterranean colony can have as many as 75 individuals after the first year, while drywoods might only have a dozen. It can take years for a colony to grow large enough to cause visible wood damage.

New termite colonies can be established in colder areas where termites don’t usually survive winter. This is possible by either introducing infested wood to a new area or through division. Division occurs when termites find a new food source and form a subcolony to exploit it. This subcolony eventually can produce the necessary reproductives from young termites (nymphs) and then completely split off as its own colony.

Signs of termites

Termites are often visible only in the form of termites swarms and shed wings. Many people believe termites only occur in spring. Some termites, including subterranean termites, can be active all year, even if they are not visible. This is especially true in warmer climates. These termites are able to be active all year round, chewing on wood 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.

Conehead termites are the only exception. Most termites cannot crawl on the ground like other pests, except for conehead termites. They build mud tubes that allow them to travel between their colony, food sources, and other termites.

This is another way homeowners can identify termites in their area. Look out for cracks in paint or wood that sounds hollow when it is tapped. If termites are found near your home, you should contact a residential pest control specialist immediately to get rid of them. Termites cannot be treated by DIY methods.

This article will provide information about termite signs and species. You can also learn about the importance and how to work with professional pest control specialists in Myrtle Beach to remove termites infestations.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need the help of professional exterminators in getting rid of termites from your home.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Friday, May 20, 2022

Mosquito Service: Tips To Prevent Mosquitoes From Ruining Your Outdoor Fun



Many things can be done in our backyards. Many of us love outdoor cooking, whether it’s in the spring, summer or fall. Many of us have a swimming pool that we can use for relaxing in the sun or splashing around. Many of us have a net set up and enjoy playing volleyball. You can also go 4-wheeling or hunting in your own backyard if you live in the country. Gathering with family and friends for outdoor parties is one of the most important activities we do in our backyards. A mosquito swarm can ruin these important activities. And when this happens, you’ll need the help of a professional mosquito service.

Itchy and red welts can be caused by mosquitoes. They are also a growing threat to other diseases. This could make your guests uncomfortable. It is a smart idea to reduce mosquito populations if you are planning an important event like a family reunion, wedding, graduation or Memorial Day festivities. Aside from hiring a trusted mosquito service in Myrtle Beach, here are some helpful tips.

Mosquito Service: How To Get Rid of Mosquitoes

  1. ADDRESS SITES OF BREEDING.

In their 2-month-long lifespan, most mosquitoes can only travel a few hundred yards. You can reduce the number of pests in your yard by eliminating breeding areas.

Check the containers in your yard. Many objects can hold water. All it takes to make mosquitoes reproduce is one inch of water. Toys, an old tire, bird feeder or a wheelbarrow are all examples of containers.

Inspect your gutters

Your gutters can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes if they are blocked. Although it may seem difficult to reach the gutters in your home’s roof, a healthy and clear system will not only help you keep your home safe from water damage but also prevent mosquito breeding.

Leakage in your plumbing should be checked. Water leaking from an exterior spigot/hose can not only cause water bills to go up, but can also promote mosquito reproduction.

  1. REDUCE MOISTURE FROM YOUR YARD.

Your yard can be at risk from mosquito activity due to high humidity like we experience here in Myrtle Beach. Mosquitoes require a lot of moisture. Mosquitoes will choose a moist yard over a dry one when they are looking for hiding places. It is a good idea to trim the branches of trees that receive a lot of shade to let the sunshine through and dry your landscaping.

Pruning your landscape can encourage good airflow and create a dry environment.

  1. CONSIDER PROFESSIONAL MOSQUITO SERVICES.

Zap Pest Control Inc. knows how dangerous mosquitoes can be. Our experts have worked hard to create the best mosquito management program.

Pest control professionals will visit your property to apply residual mist in strategic areas where mosquitoes rest. The product is active for a period of time, so you are protected at all times..

  1. LET YOUR FRIENDS KNOW YOUR EVENT WILL HAVE FEWER MOSQUITOES

Some people will be afraid of mosquitoes and may not attend your event. Tell them about the residential pest control methods that you have used to get rid of these pests. This will make them feel at ease and increase their likelihood of attending your outdoor event.

Even if you don’t plan to host a party this year, it is still worth taking steps to reduce mosquito populations. A pest control specialist can help you get rid of the pesky critters in your yard and increase your enjoyment.

Zap Pest Control Inc. will protect you from many other pests that could pose a risk to your equity, health, and belongings. Find out which pests are in your yard. Our team will inspect your yard and offer real solutions to control pests.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in getting rid of pests from your home.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Monday, May 16, 2022

Pest Control in Condo Associations and HOAs: What You Need to Know For Spring



Pests are a problem that many condo owners have to deal with, regardless of whether they belong to homeowner associations. The community trusts the board to handle the pest problem in homeowner associations. Therefore, the board members need to find the best pest control solutions and communicate with the members in order to prevent the pest problem from becoming a serious threat. What is the best way to manage this problem? These are some possible solutions.

Use Spring for Seasonal Pest Control

The pests enjoy favorable weather conditions at the beginning of spring. They will mate easily, move to new areas and increase their activity. It is important to intervene early in the season to address the problem before it becomes a serious one.

These are some residential pest control tips for this season.

Take care of food and waste: Pests love areas that have food and dirty surfaces. It is a good idea to empty your dustbins and clean up after meals.

Be aware of the Pests You Should Expect: It is important to remember that termites, rats and ants will begin reproducing in spring. The environment will also be conducive to the multiplication and growth of mosquitoes.

Check the Exterior and Interior Walls. Pests look for openings or cracks in your walls to gain entry. You should ensure that exterior walls are free from cracks or other conditions that encourage pests such as damp interiors.

Spring pest control in Myrtle Beach is best done quickly, by checking for warning signs and maintaining the environment.

Who is responsible for pest control in community associations?

It can be confusing for condo owners to decide whether to handle the pest problem on their own or call the property manager. Pest control in HOA/Condo Associations falls under the individual’s responsibility.

However, pests can sometimes affect common areas. Owners of condos and homes should come to an agreement on how to manage the situation. The agreement gives the green light to meet the costs and other measures that need to be installed.

It is wise to have a clearly defined policy when managing the problem. A written policy improves speed, goodwill, and stops the problem from growing.

Safe Pest Control Methods–HOAs and Condo Associations

Pesticides have been shown to be a cause of cancer, climate change, and other air pollution that threatens human survival. This requires both individual and collective effort to preserve nature and the environment.

These are some examples of safe ways to deal with different pests.

Rodents: Rats live off leftovers, fruits and untrimmed bushes. Ensure you dispose of any leftovers in containers, trim your grass frequently, and get rid empty cans and wood that could be used to nest.

Bed Bugs: Condo Associations are plagued by bed bugs. Early intervention is the key to preventing bed bugs from spreading. Before you move in, inspect the condo and fix any cracks that may encourage them to spread.

Plants and herbs: Some plants or herbs have a natural smell that can irritate rodents and other pests. To deter pests, plant a few rosemary, garlic, cayenne or pyrethrum in your garden.

Are Residents and Owners Free to Choose Other Methods/Providers?

Yes. condo owners have the ability to monitor and evaluate any pest control product at their own discretion. This includes a review of both the method and service provider. This evaluation is intended to maximize costs and assess whether the service provider is serving its customers well.

Disclaimer: These laws may differ from one state to the next. If you have questions about pest control, it is important that you consult your attorney or licensed community professional.

We can help you manage the pest problem

Rodents, roaches and other insects can be a major problem for condo owners or homeowners. Zap Pest Control is a trusted company that offers the best service and saves homeowners as well as the board members. These problems can be solved by our support staff and management team within your budget.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you need help in getting rid of pests from your condo.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Friday, May 13, 2022

What Attracts Mosquitoes And When Do You Need Mosquito Service?



There are numerous reasons why some people get bitten by mosquitoes while others are seemingly immune. Mosquitoes do not randomly select their victims. Scientific studies have shown that blood type, exercise habits, clothing colors and even beverage choices can make certain individuals more attractive to these insect pests. You need professional mosquito service to get rid of them.

When Do You Need Mosquito Service?

KNOW YOUR ENEMY

The best way to fight an enemy is to understand it. Although mosquitoes can ruin an outdoor event, that’s not their main objective. Here are a few facts about these troublesome insects.

Mosquitoes find their potential hosts by three methods: sight (color and movement), chemical signals (odors and C02 emissions) and infra-red radiation (heat).

Only female mosquitoes require a blood (protein) meal, which is essential for egg production, but both male and female mosquitoes feed on nectar for nutrition.1 Humans are not the preferred source of blood protein, however; mosquitoes would rather feast on animals or birds.

There are over 3,500 known species of mosquitoes in the world. Most species are active during dawn and dusk and in cooler, shaded areas. Certain species, including Aedes and the more common Culex or Anopheles mosquitoes, are painful and persistent biters that search for a blood meal early in the morning, at dusk and into the evening.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in shallow, stagnant water. Just a few inches of water is all that’s needed.

Mosquitoes carry viruses that cause diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. The viruses they carry, including West Nile and Zika, can be transmitted to humans and animals through their bites. Mosquitoes cause more human suffering than any other insect.

TAKE STEPS TO AVOID BEING TARGETED

Mosquitoes use sight, sound and scent to identify their targets. Some of the trigger characteristics that attract these pests are uncontrollable, while others may be avoided. You can also hire mosquito service in Myrtle Beach for professional help.

Mosquitoes are able to track us down via specialized neurons in sensing pads that protrude from their head.3 They specifically search for sources of carbon dioxide, and have the ability to sense it from up to 30 feet away. Athletic people with a high metabolic rate, large individuals, and pregnant women all produce greater than average amounts of carbon dioxide.

Strenuous exercise also causes the production of lactic acid, uric acid and ammonia, all of which are compounds expelled through sweat and attract mosquitoes. So, avoid working out outside during dawn or dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.

When outdoors, wear shoes and socks, as exposed ankles and feet are targets for mosquitoes. The combination of tender skin, metabolic emissions and bacteria make for a delicious meal for these insects.

Additionally, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, specifically beer, which is a proven attractant for mosquitoes. Alcohol increases both respiration and perspiration while adding yet another enticing scent to the mix.

In a study conducted by Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 13 volunteers were exposed to mosquitoes before and after they consumed 350 ml of beer. The study demonstrated that mosquitoes were more likely to land on the volunteers after they consumed the beer.5

When dressing for a barbecue, for example, wear light-colored clothing. Mosquitoes also rely on sight to track their targets. Dark-colored clothing tends to stand out against natural surroundings.

Finally, know your blood type. Your blood type is revealed through chemical markers on your skin. In a study conducted by the Institute of Pest Control Technology, people with type O blood suffered more mosquito bites than any other blood type.6 If you have Type O blood, you may want to stay indoors or cover up really well.

FIGHT BACK WITH CONTROL METHODS

Even when you do your best to avoid known mosquito attractors, it’s impossible to avoid all bites. The best way to significantly decrease the possibility of getting bitten is to eliminate any possible breeding areas in your yard. Get rid of any collected water, especially after it rains. It’s one of the most effective pest control methods.

Anything that holds even ¼ inch or more of standing water water can harbor mosquito eggs. Also address poor drainage in your yard. Drain or fill non-flowing dips, ditches and soil depressions in the yard that hold water. After you’ve addressed standing-water issues, treat your lawn and landscaped areas with a mosquito killer.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. for professional help in getting rid of pests from your home.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Seasonal Pest Control Tips For First Time Homeowners



Buying your first house is an exciting experience. You also have a long list of new tasks and responsibilities. Home security is a priority for most homeowners. However, keeping your home safe from potential intruders requires more than deadbolts or home alarms. No matter where you live, common pests are always looking for homes. Knowing when and how pests work will allow you to protect your most valuable investment and avoid seasonal pest problems. Here are some pest control tips you need to know.

Like all living creatures, pests seek shelter, food, water, and water. They don’t require a lot of openings. Common mice can fit through openings as small and narrow as a pencil’s diameter, while spiders and other insects can get in through cracks up to 1/16 inches. Ants are the most persistent and common household pests.

Residential Pest Control Tips

Pest-proofing your property year-round requires a thorough inspection inside and outside, followed by prompt treatment. The following should be on your basic residential pest control list:

  • Yard and garden debris can be used as hiding spots or homes for pests. Clear away leaves around your foundation and clean your gutters. Keep your garage and outbuildings clear of clutter.
  • Seal any cracks or larger openings in the foundation or siding joints. Clear caulk and other sealants can be used to block common entry points such as those around gas and water pipes, telephone lines, cable connections, and windows. Sealing reduces energy consumption, too.
  • Door thresholds and sweeps should be kept tight. Doors at corners are prime areas for pests.
  • To prevent pests and moisture from building up, keep wood landscape mulch away form your foundation. You can deter pests by using stone mulch or fresh cedar chippings.
  • Cut back any shrubs or tree branches that touch your home and trim overhanging limbs. Both are ready to be used by wildlife and insects.
  • Place gutter downspouts to direct rainwater away from your foundation. Moisten, low-lying areas are places where mosquitoes and pests can thrive.
  • To keep unwanted intruders out, cover any vent openings with wire mesh (also known as hardware cloth).

Pest activity is seasonal and has highs and lows. Spring and summer are the peak seasons, so be proactive. Indoor pest problems can be reduced by quickly dealing with them. Pests will seek out warm, dry places or food sources indoors in the event of prolonged drought, cold weather, or prolonged rain.

EARLY SPRING – FALL

Early pest activity is a sign that rodents are leading the charge. Gophers and moles are able to decimate lawns and leave them covered with tunnels and mounds from the start of the spring through summer and then autumn. Before warm weather comes, you need to act fast at the first sign of gopher or mole activity.

SPRING, THEN EARLY FALL

Fire ants could be dealt with in spring and fall. Fire ants are more active in spring when soil temperatures increase, and then they slow down as summer heat sets in. Once the temperatures drop to moderate levels in the fall, activity peaks. Be aware of the harm they do to lawns and the suffering that these stinging insects cause to wildlife, humans and pets if you live in a fire-ant country. Before fire ants pose a serious threat, act quickly.

SPRING THROUGH SUMMER

As spring becomes summer, ants and other outdoor pests become more active. Pest problems can be caused by warm weather, drought, and changes in your lifestyle, like barbecuing. Before you have problems, make sure your home is protected from ants and other insects.

LATE SPRING THROUGH SUMMER

Watch out for ant trails in your garden and new home as ant activity grows. Use powerful methods to combat ants indoors as well as outdoors. In-ground bait stakes can be used to target outdoor areas. Place bait stations in warm areas behind ovens, refrigerators, and other appliances that emit heat to outsmart indoor insects. Also, place them under sinks or where moisture or wastebaskets can draw ants in.

FALL CLEANUP

Clear away any leaves that may have fallen from your foundation or gutters before the cold weather arrives. Seal any cracks or holes and keep pests out of your home. If necessary, trim tree limbs or shrubs.

Protect your home and family by controlling pests during peak summer and spring seasons. Hire a professional pest control in Myrtle Beach to protect your investment and help you keep out common pests.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now. Our team of exterminators is always ready to help get rid of pests from your home.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Residential Pest Control When Touring A House Or Apartment



According to pest control professionals, cockroaches, bedbugs, ants, and mice are some of the most common pest problems in America. It is not something you would want to deal with. Fortunately, you can hire residential pest control services to help you out.

While it’s unavoidable to have spiders, insects, or small mammals living in your house, there are ways you can prevent them from entering your space. You can always seek the help of an exterminator to deal with your pest problems.

Even though pests may seem harmless, you shouldn’t allow them to climb into your bed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn pregnant women about the dangers of living in homes infested by mice carrying viruses. This could lead to miscarriage or birth defects. Other pests can also be dangerously venomous or carry diseases.

Any pest problem can be fixed, but it is best to do this before you move into an apartment or house. Put it in writing that your place must be free of pests before you move in.

Instead of waiting for them to find you, these are some simple tips that you can use when you visit a location to identify signs that pests could be already squatting in the next house.

Give it a good sniff. If you are the first person to enter a house or apartment, let your nose be the one to tell you if there is anything wrong.

Many pests, including mice and cockroaches, leave behind an unpleasant odor in the air. This is especially true when the pest has established itself as a home. He says that you should be able to detect the smell of a roach infestation, which is usually described as oily or musty.

Take a look around the room. Are there any pests in the room? A pest problem can be identified immediately if you see a cockroach in a cabinet, or a rodent running across the floor.

Although it doesn’t always mean that there is a larger problem, the fact that they are alive and well can be used as leverage to get a better price from the real estate agent.

Pay attention to spots. If you see fecal matter, it is usually a sign that pests have entered your home.

You may see small brown or maroon spots along the walls. This could be a sign that there is a large population of bedbugs in the room. If they aren’t already in your home, they could spread to other areas of the house or take a ride in your car or office.

The presence of sawdust on the windowsills and other areas could be indicative of more serious structural damage. You can always hire an exterminator in Myrtle Beach to help you get rid of the pests.

A flashlight is a must for dark areas. You can spot pests in hard-to-reach places by looking for signs. Bring a flashlight on tours to see what might be hidden.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in getting rid of pests from your house or apartment.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Mulch, Termite Treatment, and Your Home’s Foundation



Homeowners are often concerned about termites (Isoptera). Mulch applied near a foundation can attract termites. This is a concern that raises many questions and often leads to the need to hire termite treatment services. Unfortunately, experts do not agree with all the answers. If you are not sure how to go about using mulch around your foundation, here is the short answer:

For safety, make sure to leave a 1-foot wide strip of mulch-free ground along your foundation. Also, ensure that the mulch doesn’t come in contact with any window frames or doors. Keep the ground as dry as possible.

You can apply mulch outside of the mulch-free zone. This is what people do to control weeds in foundation plantings. However, it should be limited to a few inches deep. It’s also important to check for termites diligently.

Let’s now get to the bottom of this problem.

Termite Treatment, Drainage (Moisture), and Your Foundation

When it comes to termite treatment, there are different opinions regarding the degree of caution that you need to follow when applying mulch near your home. There are many opinions on this topic. Mulch is not a good food source for termites. Mulch is actually not a preferred food source for termites. Mulch provides termites with conditions they prefer. It retains moisture which is what they love and insulates them against extreme temperatures. It is extremely rare to find termites in bagged mulch purchased from large-scale retailers or commercial businesses. This is because termites can’t live through the wood shredding process. Termites prefer to live in the soil and then search for food sources. Mulch provides the conditions for termites to thrive. But when you’re mulching foundation plantings, there are a few things you need to be aware of.

  • Termites can be a problem in your locality.
  • You have experienced termite infestations in your own home.

Termites can cause serious damage to your foundation so it’s best to be safe than sorry when mulching around your home.

Good drainage around a foundation is crucial when it comes to residential pest control as termites love moisture. It is easy to ensure adequate drainage. Grade the ground so it slopes away from your house by about 5 percent. This will channel water away the foundation. Install splash blocks and downspouts to divert water from the foundation.

Drawing Termites and Mulching around Foundations

Take into account the sub-questions that are implied in the larger question about whether mulching around foundations can cause termite problems.

  • Will you allow the mulch to contact the foundation?
  • If so, how thick should the mulch layer be?
  • Is there a better mulch type for pest control than others? Is it possible for termites to be attracted to wood mulch in order to find food?

Each one of these termite control questions requires individual treatment.

Mulch should not be allowed to contact your foundation directly. There are a few opinions. Experts advise against mulch contact with your foundation. However, you should avoid it if termiticides were applied to the soil near the foundation during construction. This is the best way to ensure you are free from termites.

If you’re less concerned about mulch coming into contact with your foundation cement, limit the mulch layer to two inches. (In fact, even though the mulch should be kept farther away from the house and not more than that, the mulch layer in a foundation base bed shouldn’t be deeper than four inches.

There is a common misconception about the best mulch for pest control in Myrtle Beach. People believe that termites only eat wood mulches, which is a misconception. This is a myth. The question is whether mulch actually attracts termites to your land technically.

It is not about termites being lured to your property by the promise that they will eat a wood mulch, but termites already living in the soil, who use the mulch as a cover and launchpad to invade your home. All mulches offer moisture to termites. Mulch that retains moisture well is one of their best features. This quality is not only beneficial for your plants, but also for termites. Remember that even mulches with less moisture (such stone mulches), still provide pests with a safe place to hide.

There are many types of wood mulch that termites will not like.

  • Cedar mulch
  • Mulch made from the heartwood cypress
  • Eucalyptus
  • Southern tidewater red cypress
  • California redwood
  • Melaleuca

It is much more accurate to say termites eat cellulose than to say they eat wood. Cellulose is found in the cell walls and cells of plants you plant in your garden. Termites can cause damage to your landscape plants, which is why they are not recommended.

Keep your eyes peeled for the right things and stay vigilant

It can help you save a lot of money by being vigilant and quick to respond when you see termites. First, learn about termites and their appearance. Although they may look similar to ants, termites can be quite different in size.

Termites are social insects that are divided by castes within their colonies. There are many species. Termites are not all alike. The termites are widespread; they can be found on every continent, except Antarctica.

To check for termites in mulch, inspect it regularly. If termites are found, immediately contact a professional exterminator.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now. Our team of pest control experts can help get rid of termites and other pests from your home safely and effectively.

Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/