Rodents in My Insulation?

rat waiting on wooden table

Rodents of any kind cause a mess wherever they go. You know the signs of infestation – piles of droppings and splotches of urine, scratching in your walls or above your head at night. And if you’re here, you probably know that you can call a technician from our team to eradicate a mouse or rat infestation if one were to form in your home. But did you know that there’s more to recovering from rodent swarms than a quick phone call and a simple procedure?

If mice or rats make their way into the insulation in your walls or attic, they can cause a very big and very costly problem. Let’s talk about that more below and see how Florida Pest Control can help.

Why Do Rodents Nest in Insulation?

Rodents, wherever they go, are just looking for a source of food and a place to nest. And homes across Florida have both of that in spades. At the same time, though, they want to be relatively hidden from any human onlookers, which is why they flock to spaces like your attic and the void between walls.

These spaces are likely already insulated, which is just one more appeal for rodents in the home. Insulation – especially fiberglass insulation – is warm and pliable. It’s very easy to gnaw into and eat or tear off to build a nest. As rats and mice do this, they leave gaps in the wall of insulation, as well as droppings that linger long after they’re gone. So how are you supposed to repair this damage?

Insulation Infestations

More bad news: there is little you can do to insulation that has already experienced rodent damage. The only option you really have is to remove and replace, and we do not by any means suggest you do that on your own. Rat and mice droppings can contain traces of Hantavirus, a deadly flu-like disease that will spread into the air if the droppings are mishandled. A professional has the training and equipment to remove infected insulation safely.

In terms of replacement, there is no insulation material that’s entirely rodent-resistant. TAP® insulation, which we offer as a service, contains enough boric acid to kill smaller pests, but may not work on larger mice and rats. The best way to avoid having to pay to recover from rodent infestations is to keep them from starting in the first place.

Avoiding Rodent Nests in Florida

As we speak, there may be vulnerabilities in your home that leave the space open for all manner of pests. Luckily, you don’t have to wait for rodents and other pests to take over before taking action. Florida Pest Control specializes in rodent exclusion, and we can send a technician to your house with the intention of finding and remedying the spots in your home where rats or mice could get in. When we’re done you will no longer have to worry over every scratch or strange smell. Florida Pest Control is here to make your life, and your home, clean and pest-free*. To get started, contact us today!

Signs of Bats

bats hanging upside down in attic

Florida is no stranger to bats, with 13 species that call our state home either on a seasonal or year-round basis. All of the native Floridian bats are insectivores, but that doesn’t mean you want them taking up residence in your property. Though the natural roosting sites for most of these bats tend to be in caves or in the hollows of trees, when it gets cold they will look for a warmer place to roost – and manmade buildings are prime real estate. But what are the major signs of bats in Florida properties, and who can you call to treat their presence in your home or business?

Sunrise, Sunset Sightings

Since bats are nocturnal, you aren’t going to see them flying around in the middle of the afternoon. They’re out in the dusk and dawn, and if you see one the odds are good of others being nearby. With that being said, if you’ve noticed bats around your property in the early morning or evening, there’s a real possibility that they might be circling around your attic as homebase. The same applies if you find dead or dying bats around your property.

Dropped Droppings

This is by far the easiest and most unpleasant sign of bats in Florida. Bat droppings, or guano, accumulate quickly around the entry point of a bat infestation. They’re dark-colored and pebbly, and they carry a very strong smell akin to ammonia. You may also find them inside, gathered on insulation and in the corners of the attic, or they may be outdoors on any decks, porches or windowsills on your property.

Chirping Commotion

It’s common knowledge that bats echolocate to help them see. The same small chirps that function as their sonar are also used to communicate throughout the night. These sounds will be most active when the bats are active, meaning from sunset to sunrise. And, while bats are silent flyers, if they get stuck in some part of your home’s interior they will scratch and slam against the drywall to try and get out. If you’ve been hearing lots of chirping, fluttering and scratching inside your walls or above you, especially at night, the odds are good that you have a bat infestation.

Got Grease?

A little-known fact about bats in Florida is that their skin excretes a dark, resin-like grease. That means that, wherever they squeeze in to make their way into your property, they’ll leave a stain around the entry point. You might find these marks along your roof, walls and other crannies around the building. This is something that’s completely unique to bats as opposed to rodents and other larger pests.

Repeat Offenders

Bats, like most humans, are creatures of habit. Have you had a bat infestation in the past? Did you do anything to treat it? If you’ve had bats before, even if you successfully removed them, if you didn’t take care of how they got in they will likely come back next season. They might even choose to nest their yearly pups in the corner of your attic or chimney. This is all avoidable if you find an exterminator that can safely get bats out and keep them out.

Bat Control for Homes and Businesses

If you have bats on your Florida property, it’s easy to think you have nowhere to turn. Bats are protected animals, after all, and attempting to handle them yourself can be messy in more ways than one. Florida Pest Control specializes in the humane removal of both seasonal and year-round bat varieties, and after we relocate the infestation in your attic, we can take the proper exclusion efforts to keep more from getting in. Bats in Florida aren’t known for attacking, but they carry disease and bacteria, and while they’re good for the ecosystem they have no place in your home or business. So, if you have a bat infestation you need taken care of, trust Florida Pest Control for bat control and removal.

A Beginner’s Guide to Florida Lawn Care

Feel lost when it comes to Florida lawn care? No need to worry! Even in Florida’s hot and humid climate, it doesn’t need to be confusing or difficult to keep your grass green and healthy. You just need to keep a few tips in mind to ensure your lawn has everything it needs to thrive.

In this beginner’s guide to lawn care, the experts at Florida Pest Control break down exactly what you need to know to grow lush, healthy grass:

How to Water Your Lawn

With how much sun our area gets, proper watering is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a healthy lawn. Without enough water, your grass will turn brown or die off. On the flip side, too much water can cause rot, fungus growth, and mold. 

Watching for wilt is one of the best ways to determine how much you should be watering your lawn. If you start to notice long-lasting footprints or blades that are folding lengthwise, your lawn likely needs more water. Meanwhile, excess runoff or a spongy texture are both signs that you’re overwatering.

It’s also crucial to keep these watering tips in mind as you devise your irrigation plan:

  • Avoid fungus, evaporation, and other issues by watering between 3-9 AM.
  • Change your watering frequency based on the season and weather conditions.
  • If there is a water restriction, always comply with local ordinances.

Tips for Mowing Properly

If you want to keep your lawn looking tidy and uniform, it’s important to know how to properly mow your grass. Mistakes during mowing could damage your lawn and prevent the grass from growing healthily. To get great results when mowing your lawn, follow these three tips:

  • Regularly sharpen your blades: If your grass is dented, bent, or torn after mowing, your mower blades are likely dull. Sharp blades will create a neat, clean cut that is easier for the grass to heal. For most lawn mowers, it’s recommended to have the blades sharpened after roughly 20-25 hours of use. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions or get professional help when sharpening the blades. 
  • Don’t cut the grass too short: Short grass blades may not be able to photosynthesize properly, which could inhibit growth and even lead to death. Generally speaking, taller grass grows faster and has a healthier root system. While each type of grass in Florida has different needs in terms of height, most need to be at least 2 ½” tall to stay healthy.
  • Find the right mowing frequency: Mowing too frequently will not only waste your time, but it could even damage your lawn by keeping your grass too short. Most fast-growing lawns only need to be mowed once per week, but you should keep track of your lawn’s growth rate to find the right frequency. 

Control Weeds

Weeds are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also prevent your lawn from getting enough water or nutrition, which will make the grass more susceptible to death or disease. Though at-home weed control can be time-consuming and ineffective if you’re not experienced, identifying a weed problem early on can help you get timely treatment. Watch out for these common Florida weeds:

  • Crabgrass
  • Burnweed
  • Spurge
  • Chickweed
  • Bull thistle
  • Dollarweed

Watch for Pest Infestations

A pest problem can cause serious and long-lasting damage to your lawn. By feeding on grass roots and blades, they can ruin existing grass while inhibiting new growth. Additionally, lawn pests can be incredibly difficult to eradicate once they’re fully established. Here are some common signs of lawn pest infestations to look for:

  • Dirt mounds or burrows
  • Dead patches or strips
  • Damaged grass blades
  • Eggs or live insects

If you notice an infestation in your lawn, don’t hesitate to get professional help. Attempting outdoor insect control on your own can be time-consuming, expensive, and ineffective. A pest control expert will be able to provide customized solutions to get rid of the pests quickly while preventing future infestations from targeting your lawn. 

Aerating for Stronger Grass

Aerating is a great way to promote healthier growth throughout your lawn. By using special equipment to poke small holes in the surface of the grass, you will reduce soil compaction while exposing the roots to oxygen and other nutrients. While it’s typically best to aerate in the fall or spring, each yard has different needs. A professional can help you determine the best timing for aeration.

Lawn Care Tips for Each Season

Florida lawn care means adjusting to the changing weather throughout the seasons. When you take the right steps to adjust for more sunshine or rain, your grass will continue to look green and healthy. Try implementing these seasonal tips:

Spring

Spring marks the start of the growing season, so you will want to make sure your grass has everything it needs to flourish. Now is a good time to:

  • Aerate and fertilize
  • Sharpen your mower blades
  • Adjust your watering schedule as needed

Summer

Florida summers are hot and humid, which can stress your lawn if you don’t take the right steps. To keep your lawn healthy through the heat, keep these tips in mind:

  • Increase your watering frequency as needed.
  • Keep an eye out for pest infestations.
  • Stick to a regular mowing routine.
  • DO NOT fertilize during the heat.

It’s also important to note that June 1st marks the beginning of hurricane season. Should a storm hit, your lawn will likely sustain a little bit of damage. To increase the safety of your yard and limit damage, be sure to prune nearby trees and store your tools indoors. 

Fall

As fall approaches and temperatures drop, your lawn’s growth will begin to slow down. Now’s the time to prepare your grass for winter. Try following these steps to keep your lawn healthy during fall:

  • Cut down on your mowing and watering as needed.
  • Regularly rake away leaves or debris.
  • Aerate and apply a layer of topseed.

Winter

Most Florida lawns do not become fully dormant in the winter, because the weather is still warm and sunny. However, their growth rate will slow significantly. For this reason, you won’t need to water or mow as frequently – if at all, depending on the weather. In order to protect your lawn at this time of year, prevent trampling by reducing foot traffic. 

Benefits of Professional Lawn Care

Taking care of your lawn can become a pretty time-consuming task, especially if your yard is large, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Lawn care professionals have the tools and expertise needed to keep your grass looking green and healthy all year long. That way, you can enjoy a gorgeous lawn without having to spend hours toiling outside. 

If you want to see how professional lawn care can transform your yard, turn to the experts at Florida Pest Control! From insect and weed control to pH balancing and fertilizing, our Lawn Care Program is designed to keep your grass healthy and beautiful through each season. Our experienced technicians are committed to providing you with exceptional services and outstanding results. Just contact us today to get your free quote!

Fall Pests That May End Up in Your Home

Wasp nest hanging in eaves

If you’ve noticed an increase in insects in and around your home in the fall, it’s not your imagination and it’s not just you. It’s the result of pests trying to get out of the cooler weather. Some pests migrate even further south than Florida, some burrow in or under debris, while others just try to get into our homes. The scientific term for this phenomenon is overwintering. 

The form of overwintering that most directly affects you is when pests enter your home. There are several types of pests known to try to get in, from insects to rodents. The most difficult fall pests to get rid of are the ones you can’t see because they’re now in the attic or behind your walls. Some of the pests most likely to end up in your home this fall include: Asian lady beetles, rodents, termites, stink bugs and wasps. Read on to learn more about these common pests that may try to get into your home this fall and winter.

Asian lady beetles

While Asian lady beetles resemble ladybugs, they’re a bit larger in size. Also, their coloration ranges from red to orange and not all of them have spots like the ladybug. So, what’s the problem with these small ladybug look-alikes? They stick together in groups, using pheromones to communicate their location. When they want to enter your home, the result can be a large infestation that ends up in your attic or walls. While they won’t eat your home or sting you, if you have an infestation, their waste can stain and can trigger allergic reactions or breathing difficulties in sensitive individuals. The best way to prevent these, or any, bugs from getting into your home is to seal cracks and crevices on the exterior of your home. They’re small, so you will need to be diligent. Having a preventative pest control service in place can also help to prevent a pest infestation from taking place in your home.

Rodents

You probably know that squirrels are excellent climbers but so are roof rats and mice. Most rodents can climb up trees and get onto your roof via nearby branches, fences, and or even by climbing a drainpipe!  From there, it’s easy to get into your attic and make a nest to stay warm for the fall and winter. If you hear scratching or gnawing noises from up above or inside the walls, you likely have rodents inside your attic or wall voids starting to make themselves at home. If this happens, it’s time to call an experienced rodent exterminator like Florida Pest Control.

Stink bugs

While there are several types of stink bugs, the brown marmorated stink bug is the one you’re most likely to see in your home. It’s an invasive species originally from Asia. They’re shaped like a shield and their color is a mottled combination of brown and gray. They range in size from ¼” to ⅜”. As their name suggests, when stink bugs feel threatened or get squashed, they release an unpleasant odor. Stink bugs tend to spend the winter in quiet parts of a home where they’re unlikely to be disturbed like an attic, crawlspace or inside the walls. You will first start to notice these pests as the temperature starts to fall at night but the days are still warm and sunny. Stink bugs will land on the sunnier sides of your home, in an effort to warm up. They are also attracted to lighter color homes, which sometimes can be the reason you are seeing them but your neighbor isn’t.

Termites

Termites are considered to be the most destructive pest in America. The estimated annual cost of termite damage and termite control efforts in the US is up to $30 billion. Termites are always looking to enter your house as a food source. So, what’s different about fall and winter? First, subterranean termites, the most destructive species, tend to burrow deeper into the ground to stay warm in the winter. This means you’re less likely to discover a subterranean termite infestation until the spring. During that time termites can do a great deal of damage. Once termites can get into your home they will consume wood and anything else that contains cellulose. Signs you may have termites in your home include blisters on painted falls, hollow-sounding wood, mud tunnels in your crawlspace, chewing sounds, and unexplained pinhole-sized holes. 

Wasps

Wasp colonies as a whole don’t overwinter; the regular workers do not survive and the colony is rebuilt annually. However, fertilized queens overwinter outdoors in hollow logs, stumps or under leaves. However, they can also overwinter on or in structures, including the attics or siding of homes. The most common way for wasps to get in is through attic vents that aren’t screened. It is always best to ensure that your attic is as sealed as possible, to prevent wasps and other pests from entering. It is possible for the queen to start her new colony in your attic next year, which can mean a large nest of stinging insects to remove. Best to prevent that from happening right from the start this fall! 

Experienced Local Exterminators

Florida Pest Control has been providing Florida with trusted pest control services since 1949. If you have any of these fall pests in your home, Florida Pest Control can help get them out and keep them out. We also offer services to help prevent these pests from entering your home.

Contact us for a free quote!

Watch Out for Florida Chinch Bugs

Chinch bug damage in grass

Here in the Florida summer, chinch bug infestations are a commonly occurring problem. These insects tear through our lush turf grasses and leave them a patchy, brown mess. If you are a long-term Florida resident, you surely know that these pests are no fun to deal with.

Since these bugs are so good at hiding, it can be hard to tell if you’re hosting them on your property until they’ve already worsened the condition of your lawn significantly. So, what can we do to prevent chinch bugs in our yards? Read on for advice from the lawn pest experts at Florida Pest Control!

How Do I Know I Have Chinch Bugs?

A chinch bug problem is hard to assess until its presence is obvious in many cases. Because these bugs are so small, it’s important to be able to tell both what they look like and how their damage appears:

  • Chinch bug appearance: Thes bugs are usually about ⅛” – ¼” in length. They are brownish-red to black in color with six legs and a pair of lighter wings that fold over each other across their backs.
  • Chinch bug damage: Although chinch bugs will also go after leafy debris, thatch, and agricultural crops sometimes, you’re most likely to find them attacking your lawn. When they eat away at our grass blades, they inject a toxin into the plant that inhibits future growth and leads to a yellowing or browning surface appearance. They prefer to eat grass that sees more sunlight.

What to Do to Control Chinch Bugs

If you suspect you have chinch bugs because of recent damage to your lawn, you can try something called the “floatation method” to substantiate your claim. Cut out the bottom of a metal can and press it down 3 inches into the soil of a damaged part of your lawn. If you consistently pour water into the can over 5 minutes, any chinch bugs below will float to the surface.

Whether or not this reveals a chinch bug infestation, we recommend taking these three steps to prevent lawn pest infestations:

  1. Install an irrigation system to make sure your lawn’s water intake is regulated in accordance with slope, sunlight, and species
  2. Fertilize your lawn with a slow-releasing nitrogen fertilizer (or a different type depending on what kind of grass you have)
  3. Team up with your local lawn pest exterminators to set up a prevention or removal plan

Get Rid of Chinch Bugs in Florida

If you want to get rid of chinch bugs and restore your lawn to its beautiful state today, reach out to your local pest control company. At Florida Pest Control, our technicians are trained to assess every lawn for a long list of factors to determine the best way to progress with an integrated pest management plan. We can make sure your lawn stays free of chinch bugs and all other lawn pests every summer. For a free quote, reach out today!

How to Get Rid of Ants Infesting Your Bathroom

All kinds of ant species run rampant in Florida. Our hot and humid climate allows for many varieties of ants to proliferate and thrive, building colonies in our yards and sneaking into our homes for food and water. Additionally, our climate allows ants to survive and thrive all year long. This makes it crucial to know how to get rid of ants when they get inside.

One of the most commonly-infested rooms in the home is the bathroom—you’re probably here because you have ants in your bathroom right now. If this is the case, read on for ant removal advice from our expert exterminators at Florida Pest Control!

Why Ants Infest Bathrooms

Ants commonly infest bathrooms because of the consistent water and moisture sources that they can find there. Small puddles of water pool in your sink, in your shower, and on your floor, inviting ants to gather for a drink and push onward to look for food. Carpenter ants commonly infest bathrooms for the damp wood they find to tunnel through, but you’re likely to find any of several species of common Florida ants in your bathroom. These are the ways they usually make it inside:

  • Ventilation systems
  • Holes around plumbing fixtures
  • Open windows and doors
  • Cracks in the foundation and walls

It is also possible that the ants in your bathroom have traveled there from another room in your home, so make sure you try to find the source of their trail before determining that your bathroom is the main issue at hand.

How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Bathroom

Finding the source of the ant trail is the most important part of ant control because the only way to ensure that ants don’t come back is to take out their colony. Unfortunately, this can be a difficult task when ants find their way into your home through walls, pipes, and vents. This makes ant prevention a helpful measure to take because it’s easier to keep ants out in the first place than to get rid of them. Here are some ant prevention strategies we recommend:

  • Check that your windows and doors can shut completely
  • Seal any cracks leading inside your home with a silicone-based caulk
  • Move mulch away from your siding and trim plants so they don’t touch your home
  • Make sure that your bathroom is well-ventilated
  • Look for and replace water-damaged wood

Best Way to Get Rid of Ants in Florida

Ants in Florida can attack your home from every angle and build inconspicuous colonies that take far too long to find. That’s where the help of a trained ant exterminator is necessary. At Florida Pest Control, our ant control team is trained to tackle any kind of ant infestation you might be dealing with. Using top-of-the-line products backed by tested strategies, we will have your home ant-free in no time. Contact us today for a free quote!

10 Tips to Help You Pest-Proof Your Backyard

Servicing a yard in Florida - Florida Pest Control

Spring and summer are cherished seasons for the sunshine and warmth that they bring, but there’s no harder time to avoid pest problems than during post-rainfall warmth. Here in Florida, our climate accounts for pest infestations all through the year, making it hard to enjoy a nice day relaxing in your backyard. You have to take constant measures to ensure that pests don’t take over your property, and we’re here to help you direct your efforts. Read on for advice on pest-proofing your backyard with the exterminators at Florida Pest Control!

Top 10 Tips for Backyard Pest Prevention

Florida is home to so many different types of pests that it is crucial to have a wide-reaching pest prevention plan for your backyard. Here are our top 10 backyard pest control tips:

  1. Trim trees and bushes: Overgrowth of plants and trees can create shaded hiding places for many kinds of pests. Trim your trees, bushes, and shrubs often to prevent this.
  2. Mow your lawn often: Overgrowth can lead to bountiful opportunities for pest shelter and trap in excess moisture for bugs to hydrate with. Mowing once a week can prevent this.
  3. Prevent stagnant water: Mosquitoes breed in still water pools. Check for pooling rainwater in gutters, planters, tarps, and more, and get rid of it with a cover or by pouring it out.
  4. Get rid of yard waste: Piles of yard waste can serve as temporary shelters for pests of all sizes. Get rid of yard waste as often as you can.
  5. Dethatch your lawn: Thatch is helpful for lawn temperature regulation, but too much can create many kinds of common lawn pest problems. Dethatch to prevent pests and keep your lawn healthy.
  6. Use garden nets: Garden netting can prevent wild animals and insects from venturing into your yard to eat your plants.
  7. Store firewood carefully: Firewood can lead to termite problems that eventually seriously affect your home. Keep your firewood elevated and distanced from your home.
  8. Water your lawn properly: Using an irrigation or sprinkler system can help prevent the pest problems that come with both overwatering and underwatering.
  9. Seal and distance waste bins: Pests as small as wasps and large as raccoons will forage for food in your trash cans. Seal them if possible, but be sure to keep them far away from your yard.
  10. Hire an exterminator: An exterminator can figure out the reason for your backyard pest problems and put a stop to them.

Pest Control for Your Backyard in Florida

To ensure that your backyard stays pest-free* all through the spring and summer, it’s important to work with a professional exterminator with experience in our region. Our team of technicians at Florida Pest Control is well-versed in the many strategies it takes to prevent and get rid of all kinds of common Florida pests. Get in touch today for a free quote!

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Me So Much?

A mosquito in Florida - Florida Pest Control

Are you one of those people who can never catch a break from mosquito bites? Although many of us know a “mosquito magnet” or are one ourselves, it’s hard to say why one person would be more attractive to mosquitoes than another. While experts still haven’t worked out the specifics on which bodily qualities mosquitoes prefer, we do know a lot about the signals that mosquitoes look for and the activity that amplifies these signals. If you’re looking to be strategic about avoiding mosquito bites in Florida this year, read on for advice from the mosquito exterminators at Florida Pest Control!

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite Certain People Over Others?

Although we still don’t know exactly how to predict who mosquitoes will prefer, we do know a lot about the signals that they use to find hosts to feed on and what we do to make ourselves more apparent as eligible. The more physically active we are around mosquito breeding grounds, the more likely we are to be discovered. Here’s why:

  1. Our breath: Carbon dioxide is the main indicator of potential hosts in the area that mosquitoes use. When we exhale, we release CO2 into the air, tipping off mosquitoes to our presence. Exercise or prolonged physical activity outdoors will cause you to breathe heavier, letting out more CO2.
  2. Our body odor: The more you perspire, the greater chance your scent will attract nearby mosquitoes. Strong perfumes and some dietary choices will also catch mosquitoes’ attention.
  3. Our temperature: Wearing dark clothing and getting exercise can both increase your internal body temperature and make you more likely to be detected by mosquitoes.

Wondering How to Avoid Mosquito Bites?

The best way to avoid mosquito bites is to stay inside with the windows and doors shut. But who wants to do that? Our beautiful Florida springs and summers are meant to be enjoyed out in the sunshine. Here are some ways you can protect yourself from mosquito bites outside:

  • Avoid stagnant water: Mosquitoes lay eggs in pools of standing water. They will make use of larger bodies of water like ponds and tiny pools of it that collect in your gutters. Inspect your yard to cover or pour out any standing water that you find.
  • Wear clothing accordingly: Wearing dark colors in the sun will trap heat around you and raise your body temperature, making you more likely to be found by mosquitoes. White and light-colored clothing (or, better yet, long sleeved shirts and pants) will decrease your chances of bites.
  • Use bug spray: EPA-approved bug sprays that use DEET or picaridin are your safest and most effective options for insect repellent. All-natural alternatives like citronella candles and lemon eucalyptus oil can also work well, albeit with less longevity.

How Can Mosquito Control Help?

If mosquitoes seem to be an inevitable problem for you every year, reach out to your local exterminators. At Florida Pest Control, we train our mosquito control team to conduct thorough barrier treatments that can protect the perimeter of your property for months at a time. To learn more about our mosquito abatement services and get a free quote, contact us today!

What to Know About Flying Termites

Flying termites in Florida - Florida Pest Control

With spring fast approaching, swarms of insects are likely to appear. There are many pests we have to deal with here in Florida, but termites are one of the most problematic. Despite being active throughout the year, spring is when they are known to swarm and infest new areas. This is why it’s crucial to be on the lookout for flying termites this time of year and to know what to do to prevent them from infesting.

We at Florida Pest Control know how distressing it can be to think about a termite infestation. From identifying flying termites to getting rid of them for good, our experts are here to help you.

How to Identify Termite Swarmers

The presence of flying termites in or near your house is an indication that you may have an infestation. Keeping a watchful eye on them is therefore essential. Flying termites, also called “swarmers” or “alates”, are black to brown in color and reach a length of 3/8 inches, including the wings. The wings are translucent in color or slightly milky or smoky. Their wings may overlap and are typically as long as or slightly longer than their bodies.

Swarmers typically fly in the spring and find their way into structures around basement windows, doorways, near porches, or any other area where wood comes into contact with soil. When you have an infestation, the termites can eat away at the very structure of your home before you ever even notice. For this reason, it’s important to have preventative measures in place to keep them away in the first place.

5 Tips to Prevent Flying Termites

Always look for signs of flying termites, especially in the spring. If you want your property to be less susceptible to wood-destroying insects, you can do several things. Try the following tips to prevent termites from invading your Florida home.

  1. Store all firewood away from the perimeter of your home.
  2. Repair issues with your plumbing to avoid any leaks or moisture that could attract termites.
  3. Clear your yard of any rotting wood, trees, etc. Ensure your porch or deck is maintained.
  4. Keep all mulch away from the foundation of your home.
  5. Work with a professional termite control expert to implement treatments that repel termites.

We Protect Your Property From Termites Year-Round

Whether you have a termite infestation or see flying termites near your home, you’ll need professional help! Getting annual pest control inspections from a company like Florida Pest Control is the best way to protect against wood-destroying insects. Learn more about preventing flying termites near your home year-round by contacting us today. 

When Do Termites Swarm in Florida?

Termite swarmers in Florida - Florida Pest Control

Certain pests specialize themselves to thrive in particular environments—most often we see insects gravitate to areas that provide a warm and humid climate for as much of the year as possible. Unfortunately for us Floridians, this means that all sorts of pests thrive around our homes, one of which being termites. Although termites are active year-round in Florida, it’s important to take action before they swarm to protect your home from the destruction that they can cause. Read on to learn all about termite habits from the termite exterminators at Florida Pest Control!

When Do Termites Swarm?

Termites swarm to seek out a new source of food and a new place to live when their colony becomes too expansive for their current situation. All over the country, termites swarm when the weather becomes hospitable enough for them to go out in the open for a temporary period of time. Here in Florida, this usually falls in early March or even late February.

If you haven’t seen a termite swarm, watch out for small winged termites in your yard. If you find them inside your house, it could mean that a newly-visiting termite colony is looking to make your house their home, or worse. It could also mean that your home has already hosted a termite colony that grew so large undetected that they’re ready to swarm again.

How to Termite-Proof Your Home in Florida

There are a few ways to make your home less accessible to a termite infestation before the swarming season starts. Here are four steps we recommend you take to termite-proof your home:

  1. Keep moisture levels low: Termites are attracted to moisture and water-damaged wood, so make sure that your gutters are intact, your siding is in good condition, and your sprinklers aren’t spraying the walls of your home.
  2. Keep firewood at a distance: Storing your woodpile against your home might be convenient, but it will greatly increase your chances of a termite infestation in your home. Store it at least 20 feet away and off of the ground if possible.
  3. Consider an alternative mulch: As helpful as it might be for your plants, mulch attracts termites. If you decide to use mulch, keep it at a distance from your home’s siding and foundation.
  4. Fill cracks and holes: Termites will scope out any possible entry points to your home’s internal structures. Seal up cracks in plumbing, roofing, siding, foundation, and more with caulk.

Have Termite Exterminators Protect Your Home

If you want to ensure that your home is safe from termites before spring rolls around, reach out to your local pest control company. At Florida Pest Control, we understand how important it is to protect our customers’ homes from the most destructive pests in the state. We know termites to their core and conduct exhaustive WDI inspections to find any evidence of activity or vulnerabilities that could lead to an infestation. For a free quote, contact us today!