Monthly Archives: March 2019

Cincinnati Pest Control, Rodents, Treatment Options

Rodent Control Treatment in Cincinnati

Rodents can cause significant distress to homeowners in Cincinnati. One reason for this is because they are a lot bigger than typical household pests. It can be downright frightening to see a rodent scurry through your house. But, their size is not the main reason that these types of pest should strike fear in your heart. The real threats that rodents pose are to your home and to your family. Rodents can cause serious damage to your property and spread disease to your family. The seriousness of these threats makes effective rodent control treatment very important.

Damage to your home

One of the biggest reasons proper rodent control is essential is because they can do serious damage to your home. Rodents are willing to chew on just about anything. They’re known to chew through wires inside walls and those connected to electronics and appliances. This type of damage can create potential fire hazards in your property. Rodents will also damage items inside your house by chewing through cardboard and paper to get materials to build their nests. Even seemingly strong building materials like sheetrock can be chewed through by rodents. In order to protect your home from damage you need to have a rodent control treatment plan that works.

Spread disease to your family 

Effective rodent control can protect your family from the threat of diseases that can be spread by rodents. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) lists eleven diseases that can be transmitted directly to humans from rodents and fifteen diseases that are indirectly transmitted by rodents. These lists contain some serious diseases that you do not want anyone in your family exposed to. Rodents can transmit disease directly by contaminating your food supply. When they chew into the food packages in your pantry they can leave behind urine and feces that spread disease. In addition, direct contact with rodent urine or droppings and breathing in dust contaminated with them can transmit disease. Keeping your home rodent-free will go a long way toward protecting the health of your family.

Rodent control treatment options

There are two basic options for rodent control treatment: traps and poison. Traps are designed to catch rodents and either kill them or contain them until you (or your pest control professional) can remove them from the property. One benefit of using traps is the fact that you know where the rodents are. You do not have to worry about them crawling into some hidden space to die and causing your home to smell bad. You can remove any rodent that gets caught in the trap’s snare and set it up to catch the next one. Poison is the second broad category for rodent control. There is a wide range of options for killing off rodents with poison. If you choose to work with a pest control professional they will have a recommendation for the poison you should use based on your situation and their expertise. A benefit of using poison is that you can get to more rodents than you can with traps. Once a trap is full it cannot catch another rodent until you remove the old one and re-set the trap. You can easily set out enough poison to kill off several rodents at a time.

In Cincinnati you can get help with all of your rodent control treatment needs from the experts at Sure Thing Pest Control. We have the training, expertise, and tools necessary to protect your home and your family from the threat of a rodent infestation.

Pest Control, Prevention tips, Termites, Termites in Cincinnati

Termite Treatment Options in Cincinnati

The most effective way to deal with termites is to bring in professional help. In Cincinnati, you have a number of options when it comes to getting professional termite treatment. Two of the most effective options available in the area for eradicating termites are the Advance® Termite Baiting System and liquid Termidor® termiticide/insecticide treatment. Both of the options are effective choices for killing off active termites and protecting your home going forward.

Advance® Termite Baiting System

The Advance® Termite Baiting System provides an intelligently designed and high-quality defense against termites. This treatment option is less invasive than the typical liquid treatment options. The first step in the process of having an Advance® Termite Baiting System installed is to get a professional termite inspection. Once the infestation status of the home is determined, baiting stations are placed in the soil around the house. The locations of the baiting stations are determined by current termite activity in an area and the potential for activity in a given area. The Advance® Termite Baiting System stations are then checked regularly for signs of termites. When termites are discovered they are placed into a bait cartridge where they are exposed to termite bait. The pests feed on the bait, return to the colony, and send other termites to the bait stations. This process reduces the size of the colony in the beginning and completely kills it off over time.

Liquid Termidor® termiticide

Liquid Termidor® is an excellent termite treatment option for the people of Cincinnati and anywhere else. It has been named the #1 termite defense in America. Termidor® is undetectable to termites because they cannot see, taste, or smell it. This liquid termiticide is applied along the foundation walls or exterior perimeter of your home. Termidor® binds tightly to the soil and kills termites that come in contact with or ingest it. If a termite comes in contact with Termidor® it becomes a carrier and transfers the termiticide to others in the colony. Since termites do not die immediately upon contact they have time to spread it to others. This makes Termidor® a very effective option for fully eradicating a termite infestation.

There are additional termite treatment options on the market but the two mentioned here have proven to be the best available. Now the question is, ‘Which treatment option is right for my home in Cincinnati?’ The answer to that question depends on a number of factors including the construction of your home, the type of infestation, and your risk for developing more termite issues in the future. You and the termite professional you choose will work together to determine the option that will best address your current infestation and protect your home going forward.  

Pest Control, Prevention tips, Termites

What Should I Do if I Find Out I Have Termites?

What Should I Do if I Find Out I Have Termites?

Termites are one of the most destructive pests on the planet. A colony will eat away at the wood in your home with their scissor-like jaws 24 hours per day. The damage they do is typically to the structural wood of your home and can lead to issues with a number of important elements of your house. The costs to repair the damage caused by termites can quickly add up. The potential for damage and the costs of repairs make quick action on your part essential. If you find out there are termites in your home start the process of dealing with them immediately. They will not stop causing damage until you take steps to stop them. The first thing you need to do if you find out you have termites is to get a professional inspection. Once you have the results of the inspection the next step is to have your home treated for termites by a professional. After the termites are eradicated from your home the final step is to protect it from a re-infestation.

Get a professional inspection

A professional termite inspection will do a number of things to help you deal with termites. The inspector will be able to confirm your suspicions of an infestation and identify the areas where the termites are active. In addition, the inspector will be able to determine the severity of the infestation and potential areas of damage. As a part of the inspection the pest control professional will provide you with information about the infestation and recommendations for treatment.

Have your home treated for termites by a professional

A termite infestation is one that requires the intervention of a professional. Termites often infest areas that are out of site and out of easy reach. In order to stop termite damage you must completely eradicate the infestation. This is difficult to do and requires the expertise, training, and tools of a professional.

Protect your home from re-infestation

Once your home has been treated for termites the next step is to protect it from re-infestation. A re-infestation can happen if you do not address the conditions that led to the infestation in the first place. Subterranean termites require moisture to survive and are attracted to areas of moisture around homes. If you have any type of moisture issues around your house you need to address those to prevent termites in the future. Make sure that all of your downspouts are working properly and directing water away from your house. You can also talk to your pest control professional about their suggestions for further protecting your home.

A termite infestation is a serious issue that requires professional intervention. Protect your home from the damage termites can do by bringing in professional help as soon as you discover a problem. You can learn more about termites, treatment options, and prevention here.

Bed Bugs

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs in Your Cincinnati Home

If you have discovered a bed bug infestation in your Cincinnati home, you are not alone. Cincinnati is near the top of the list for the number of bed bug infestations. Knowing that many of your neighbors have also dealt with these pests may be comforting but it doesn’t change the fact that you need to find a way to get rid of the bed bugs. There are a number of treatment options available for eradicating bed bugs. Some homeowners choose to go with do-it-yourself options while others seek out professional help.

DIY options

A quick search online or a visit to you a big box hardware store will provide you with a number of choices for DIY bed bug treatment. There are a variety of insecticide options with various application methods. You can find foggers that release a cloud of insecticide into the room as well as sprays that you apply directly to the infested areas. In addition, there are bed bug traps and bed bug egg killers advertised for DIYers. You can even purchase a kit that contains a variety of treatment options designed to kill currents bugs and prevent future infestations. Any of these options have the potential to kill bed bugs when they come in contact with one another. The problem that many homeowners run into is the fact that bed bugs are experts at hiding and often avoid exposure to these DIY treatments.

Professional options

A pest control professional can offer a number of treatment options to help you get rid of the bed bugs in your home. Bed bugs do not like high heat and can be killed off with specially designed heaters. These heaters can be effective but do come with a set of potential problems. The high level of heat can negatively impact common household items by melting them, scorching them, or damaging internal components. If you choose this option you need to be diligent about removing or protecting any item that may be sensitive to heat. Another treatment option available through a professional is insecticide. Some of the insecticides offered by professionals contain similar ingredients to the ones you can find on the hardware store shelf. The big difference is that a pest control professional is trained in the proper use and application of those insecticides. Applying the insecticides in the right areas and in the correct manner can make the difference between completely or partially eradicating and infestation.

When it comes to getting rid of bed bugs, bringing in a professional is always the best choice. These pests are difficult to eradicate. You need help from someone who has the training to spot evidence of bed bugs and the tools to properly apply the chosen treatment. Another important reason to use a professional for bed bug eradication is for the guarantee. A top notch pest control company will provide a guarantee with their work which means you can rest assured that they will get rid of the bed bugs in your home.

Bed Bugs

5 Most Common Reasons You Have Bed Bugs

No one wants to deal with a bed bug problem. But, if you have a bed bug infestation you understand that not dealing with it is not an option. As you make plans to eradicate your home of bed bugs it is a good idea to figure out why you developed the issue in the first place. This knowledge can help you prevent future infestations. Listed below are five of the most common reasons you have bed bugs.

You did not completely eradicate a previous infestation.

Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate once they have set up residence in your home. They are small and excellent at hiding which makes it difficult to know for sure if you completely eradicated an infestation. Many homeowners attempt to get rid of bed bugs through DIY methods like bug bombs and spot treatment. These methods will kill the bed bugs but only those that come in contact with the poison. The fact that bed bugs are small and good at hiding means that they often get into areas that are difficult to reach with these DIY methods. If you had a bed bug infestation in the past and have discovered another one it is highly likely that it is a result of failing to fully eradicate the previous infestation. Your best option for getting rid of bed bugs is to bring in a professional with the tools, knowledge, and experience necessary for the job.

You brought bed bug infested items into your home.

Mattresses are not the only thing that can become infested with bed bugs. Upholstered chairs, couches, other bedroom furniture, and even clothing can bring bed bugs into your home. Shopping for these types of items second hand puts you at risk for bringing in these pests. If you have developed a bed bug problem recently then take stock of the used items you have brought into your house. That chair you want to re-cover could be the source of your current woes. You can minimize your chances of bringing bed bugs in this way by carefully examining each item for signs of pest activity before bringing it inside your home.

You stayed in a bed bug infested hotel.

Hotels are well known as a potential culprit for spreading bed bugs. If the person who stayed in the hotel room before you has a bed bug problem at home it puts you at risk for developing an infestation. These pests can travel on a variety of items from an infested home to the hotel. Do a visual inspection of the bed and surrounding areas in your hotel room to check for bed bugs.

You picked bed bugs up on a plane or bus ride.

Bed bugs are not only present inside of houses or bedrooms. They can travel on clothing, suitcases, and a variety of other items. As with a hotel, when you travel by plane or bus you share a space with a variety of people. If someone has a bed bug issue at home these pests can travel on their clothing or luggage and make their way to the seats of planes and buses. If you are unlucky enough to sit in one of those seats you may have an unwanted passenger accompany you home from your trip. Bed bugs do not like heat so drying your clothes on the hottest setting possible immediately upon arriving home can kill off any pests traveling with you.

Your neighbors have bed bugs.

In certain living arrangements bed bugs can spread quickly from home to home. If you live in an apartment complex, duplex, or condo then you may have bed bugs because your neighbor has them. The close proximity of this type of living arrangement makes it easy for bed bugs to spread between units. If you live in one of these housing arrangements and have bed bugs let your neighbors know so everyone can be proactive in prevention and treatment.

Whatever the reason for your bed bug infestation the end result is the same-you have bed bugs! Immediate action is important to prevent the infestation from spreading to others and increasing in severity. Bring in a top notch exterminator from the beginning to effectively eradicate these pests from your bed and your home.

Bed Bugs

What Should I Do if I Determine I Have Bed Bugs?

The thought of having bed bugs can send homeowners into panic. These tiny pests cause itchy bites and are notorious for being difficult to eradicate. If you suspect bed bugs in your home there are a couple of things you can do to confirm your suspicions. Start with a visual inspection for these pests in your bed and surrounding areas. Bed bugs can be difficult to spot so it is also helpful to know how to recognize other signs of activity. If you determine that you do have bed bugs then the next step is to bring in professional help.

Do a visual inspection

Bed bugs are great at hiding but it is possible to find them if you know where to look. Start with the edges of your mattress. Pull back the sheet and look closely at the crevices and seams around the perimeter of your mattress. Pay close attention to the perimeter because many types of mattresses
have edging that provides ample space for bed bugs to hide. Then, move inward and check the other crevices and tufting of the mattress. The design of your mattress will impact how you execute a visual bed bug inspection. Once you have inspected your mattress it is time to move on to the surrounding areas. Bed bugs have been known to hang out on bed frames, night stands, inside wall sockets, and anywhere else where they can get consistent access to their favorite meal. Keep in mind that these pests are small and do not like to be out in the open. They will try to hide so you must be meticulous as you do a visual inspection to ensure that you do not overlook their presence.

Recognize other signs of activity

It can be difficult to spot bed bugs especially to the untrained eye. If you do a visual inspection and come up with nothing then it may be a sign that you do not have bed bugs. Or, it could simply mean that the bed bugs were doing a good job staying hidden during the search. In order to minimize the likelihood of this happening you need to learn how to recognize the other signs of bed bug activity. One of the most common ways that homeowners discover a bed bug problem is from getting bitten. Bed bug bites are typically small and red and show up in groupings . Oftentimes they become very itchy and bothersome. The bites do not always show up immediately which can make it difficult to determine if they are from bed bugs or some other type of pest. Another potential sign of bed bug activity is blood spots on your bedding. You will not feel a bed bug bite when it occurs but you may bleed a little and that blood can get on your bedding. These will be very small dots of blood so they may not be visible if you have dark sheets. If you suspect bed bug activity you can change your dark sheets for lighter ones and keep an eye out for small dots of blood. These signs of bed bug activity can help you determine if you have bed bugs even if you were unable to find any during a visual inspection.

Bring in professional help

If you determine that you have bed bugs the next step is to bring in professional help. The success rate of homeowners treating bed bug issues on their own is very low. These pests are good at hiding and use that skill to avoid exposure to typical DIY treatment methods. A professional will have the training and experience to recognize the problem, identify the infested areas, and apply lethal treatment in areas where the bed bugs will be exposed.

A bed bug problem will not go away on its own. As soon as you determine that you have an infestation-or even suspect a problem-bring in professional help. Dealing with your bed bug issue quickly and professionally will allow you to rest easy in your bed once again.

Bed Bugs

Bed Bug Treatment Options in Cincinnati

Local news sources have reported extensively on the fact that Cincinnati has one of the highest bed bug infestation rates in the country. In 2017 our beloved city was number two on the list and thankfully dropped a few spots to number five on the list for 2018. The improvement is
welcomed but being on the list at all means that bed bugs are still a very real threat for the residents of Cincinnati. If you fear a potential bed bug infestation then it may be helpful to understand the treatment options that
are available for residents.

Heat

Bed bugs do not like high levels of heat. Because of this, there are treatment options available that involve the use of high-powered heaters throughout infected areas of your home. This method can be effective but can also pose a threat to certain materials that you may have in your home. Before you opt for this type of treatment, make sure that you remove anything that can potentially be melted or damaged by being exposed to such high heat.

Room defoggers

Room defoggers, or bug bombs, are a common DIY option for treating many types of pests. If you visit the local hardware store you will find a number of treatment options for bed bugs. Room defoggers have the ability to kill off the pests that come in contact with the airborne pesticide. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate partially because of their ability to get deep into the smallest of crevices. Homeowners often find it difficult to completely get rid of bed bugs with this method because some are so well hidden that they are never exposed to the pesticide released into the air.

Pyrethroid insecticides

Pyrethroid insecticides, when applied by a professional, are the most effective treatment option for bed bugs. This type of insecticide is part of a class of insecticides used by both consumers and professionals. You can find treatment options in this class that are effective for treating bed bugs. The key to getting the best results from this type of insecticide is to have a professional do the treatment. Eradicating bed bugs requires you to identify the problem areas and treat them directly. These frustrating pests are excellent at hiding and avoiding detection from the untrained eye. A professional will know where to look for bed bugs and how to identify signs of activity. Finding the areas where bed bugs are active will allow for direct treatment.

There are a number of ways that bed bugs can get into your home. You can take precautions to minimize your risk but it is possible for even the most proactive homeowners to develop a bed bug infestation. Understanding the bed bug treatment options available in Cincinnati will prepare you to make a quick and informed decision if you ever discover a problem.

Pest Control, Rodents

6 Tips to Determine if You Have a Rodent Problem

Having any type of creepy crawly intruder in your Cincinnati home isn’t pleasant, but when they’re of the rodent variety it seems to kick things up a notch. Rodents are sneaky, smart, and can find their way into your home through the smallest gaps you can imagine. If you think that you might have a rodent problem in your home, check out the 6 tips below to see if you’re right.

You’re Seeing Bite Marks

Rodents, especially mice, will bite their way into whatever food source they can find. If you see bite marks or holes in your food containers, pet food bags, or any other food source, there’s a pretty good chance you have a rodent issue on your hands. They may also leave crumbs and other debris behind. If you’re seeing these signs, it’s time to set out some traps or give your local pest control company a call.

You Find a Nest

Rodents love to set up a nice and cozy spot to birth their babies. Check your attic for missing insulation or built up debris. They often use materials like shredded paper, fabric, and dry grass to build a soft nest. If you see any of this going on, you’ve likely got at least a few rats or mice running around.

You’ve Found Fecal Matter or Urine

This is one of the things that makes a rodent infestation so gross to deal with. These pests can’t control their bowel movements or urination, so you may find the results all over your home. It’s especially common near food sources. As you are well aware, this can be incredibly unsanitary and dangerous to the health of you and your loved ones, so it’s essential that you sanitize thoroughly after you’ve located the problem.

You Notice An Odd Smell

There is a very specific smell that rodents leave behind, and it’s especially evident in rooms that are often closed off. If you’ve noticed that certain areas of your home smell more musky than usual, you may have a rodent infestation. If you’re suspicious, call in a pest control tech. A trained professional will be able to recognize the smell.

You Hear Suspicious Sounds

If you’ve been hearing scratching or the tip-tapping of little feet in your walls or on your ceiling, you’ve probably got a few guests of the rodent variety. This is often one of the first indicators that homeowners will notice, and it can also help you to narrow down the area where they’ve set up shop. Take advantage and focus your removal tactics on that particular area of your home.

You Spot a Rodent!

Of course, the number one indicator that you’ve got a rodent problem is if you see one running around your home! While spotting one tiny mouse doesn’t necessarily mean you have a full on infestation, in most cases you probably aren’t dealing with just one lone rodent.

While you can certainly set out some traps and try to handle the issue on your own, this can be time consuming and it may be in your best interest to give the professionals a call. Trained pest control technicians are able to narrow down the area where your problem originated and to eradicate the issue quickly and painlessly. For your peace of mind and the health of your loved ones, dealing with the infestation immediately is crucial.

Pest Control, Prevention tips

The Dos and Don’ts of Handling a Pest Problem Yourself

If you are considering trying to handle a pest problem yourself, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind as you determine your plan of action.

Do try and determine the source of the problem or infestation.

All of your efforts to get rid of pests will fall short if you fail to fix the problem that allowed the pest to enter your home in the first place. There are a few key factors that may be attracting and allowing pests in your home.

Shrubbery, firewood, and other items up against your house

If you have items that are close to or touching your house those could be the source of your problem. Shrubbery that touches the house can hold in moisture and create an environment that attracts bugs. Cut back any shrubbery that is touching the house to insure that is not the source of the problems.

Wood and other items stored against the house can attract pests as well. Firewood stored against the house can attract carpenter ants that can transfer from the wood into your home. Remove any items that are against your house to a different storage location to keep from housing pests that can easily transfer into your home.

Improper soil levels against the house

When the soil level against the house is too high, it can lead to pest problems. An overabundance of soil against your house can hold in moisture and become a home to all sorts of bugs and pests. In addition, the moisture can cause decay on your home-especially if you have siding. The wrong soil levels can also lead to flooding and water damage on the inside of your home. This is an issue that needs to be addressed whether or not it is the source of your pest problem.

Gaps around windows, doors, and crawl spaces

Check all the seals around your house for gaps that may allow pests to get in. Windows and doors are a good first place to start. You should also check around your foundation, in the crawl space, and attic for any possible breeches. A little caulk may be all you need to seal up the breech and prevent another pest infestation.

Don’t take on more than you can handle.

There are some pest problems that require more than a once over with an insecticide you bought at the hardware store. Some pests can do major damage to your home if they are not dealt with properly. In these situations, it is easy to get overwhelmed with the steps required or simply miss an important step in the process. Sometimes the best way to handle a pest control problem is to call a professional. There are a few situations in which you should always seek the help of a pest control professional.

Termites

If you suspect termites, your best option is to call in professional help. Termites can cause major structural damage to your home. A professional will recognize the signs of termite damage and will have the knowledge to treat the infestation efficiently and properly.

Serious infestation

A serious infestation may require treatment with a higher potency insecticide that is not typically available at the local hardware store. In addition, it could end up requiring more than one treatment to completely eradicate the problem from the home. An experienced pest control company will have access to the products, tools, and knowledge necessary to handle even the most difficult pest control problems.

Commercial Pest Control Services in Cincinnati

Pest Control

Cincinnati Pest Tips: Is Your House at Risk For an Ant Infestation?

Dealing with any type of a pest infestation is unpleasant, but an ant problem seems to be one of the
most annoying. When you spot a few ants in your home, you know that there are likely hundreds more where they came from. There are many things that will determine if your home is likely to be faced with an ant infestation. Take a look below at the five tips to define if your house is at risk for an ant
infestation.

Is There Easy Access To Your Home?

Your home may be open to an ant invasion and you may not even realize it. Ants are so tiny in size, and therefore can make their way inside through the smallest of cracks. If you have seen more ants than normal making their way inside your home, take a look around to see where they may be gaining access. Check window and door seals to ensure that they are snug, and if they are not, use a caulking seal to close up the gaps. If you don’t have screens on your windows, consider installing them immediately. If you happen to see a line of ants, trace them back to their entry point. This may be the only way to ensure that you are able to take care of the issue, since the space they are coming through may be quite miniscule.

Do You Have A Constant Mess?

If you aren’t the best at keeping your home spic and span, this could be the reason for your ant infestation. While we all know how difficult it can be to keep your home clean at all times, it’s essential to keep your kitchen area cleaned up. Crumbs left on the floor and spills left to dry on the counter are like a beacon to ant invaders. They are constantly looking for food sources, and your leftovers are the perfect meal in their eyes. After cooking or preparing a snack, wipe down counters and sweep up anything that has fallen to the floor. Take care to rinse dishes and put them away immediately, and never leave food out on the counters to sit.

Is There Easy Access To Food?

While on this same train of thought, consider how you are storing your food. If you leave fruits or
veggies out on the counter or dry goods in opened bags in the pantry &/or anywhere else, you may be asking for an ant army to make their way inside. It’s important to store your food in airtight containers that ants and other bugs can’t get into. Glass, hard plastic, or metal containers are the best way to ensure that bugs stay out of your food source.

Do You Have Excess Vegetation?

If you know the inside of your home is as ant-proof as possible, yet you still seem to have an issue, you may want to take a look outside. If you have shrubs, vegetation, or overhanging trees that are right against your home, there is a good chance this is where your problem is originating. If you suspect that this is your setback, cut back anything that is touching your home so that it is a safe distance from the walls, and keep an eye on the growth in the future.

Do You Skimp On Pest Control?

If you don’t typically have an issue with insects or rodents in your house, it’s easy to think that you have no need for pest control. However, by skipping out on pest control services altogether you are leaving your home unprotected. Speak with a pest control expert in your Cincinnati area to determine how often you should have routine service at your home. Some areas may call for quarterly service, while others may only need a twice-yearly checkup. A trained pest control technician will be able to take a look around your home and consider the area that you live in to determine what the best solution is for you.

By taking a good look at your home, you will likely be able to determine if you are at a high risk for an ant invasion. By taking precautions early, you will be able to avoid the headache that comes along with an infestation. Luckily, these same defenses do well to ward off a number of other insects, so by taking these measures your home will be protected against more than just ants.