Pest Control – Holiday Decorating Tips

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This holiday season is here and families throughout the country are getting in the festive spirit by stringing lights, wrapping gifts, and decorating their houses. Although such holiday preparations might seem harmless, they could offer opportunities for pests such as rodents, ants, ticks, and spiders to be accidentally brought indoors.

Among the most common methods pests enter your houses during the holiday season is through the Christmas tree, firewood, and wreaths. Ticks, ants, spiders as well as other pests could hide deep in the branches of the trees or the garland. If brought inside your home, the eggs would hatch and create a major pest infestation.

To stop bringing pests inside your house in greeneries like live trees, here are a few pest control tips that are worth remembering. These include taking a few minutes to inspect such items before bringing them indoors, searching for eggs, nests, or insects, and shaking off the greenery outdoors to awaken any hidden tenants.

Pest Control Tips For The Holiday Season

Another way for pests to get inside your house this time of the year is through boxes filled with decorations, which are commonly kept in attics, basements, crawlspaces, and garages – all of which are preferred hiding spaces for pests. Rodents and other pests find their way into these boxes during the off-season. Once homeowners unpack their decorations, they might find dead or live pests as well as droppings inside. However, in some cases, they might also discover that holiday ornaments have been destroyed or chewed by pests.

Once the time comes that you already need to decorate, unpack the holiday items outside and check all of them carefully for indications of gnaw marks, droppings, pests, as well as other damage before taking them inside your home. Pay close attention to the strings of lights to make sure that the wires have not been frayed by pests.

Maybe the most crucial step that you can take to stop pests during the festive season comes to an end of every season, once it is time to take down the Christmas tree and pack up all the decorations. Keep the holiday décor in plastic, hard bins with lids that can be tightly sealed rather than bags or cardboard boxes that could easily be chewed through. Don’t pile the cut firewood or the discarded live trees near your house, because this could attract pests like termites and mice.

During this time of the year, it is very easy to overlook indications of pests because you are too eager to check off the items on your to-do lists, however, by taking a few basic steps you could significantly reduce your odds of battling pests in your house this time of the year. Keep in mind that if you see signs of pests in your house or suspect that your home has a pest infestation, you should call a licensed pest control Myrtle Beach professional to check your house and fix the issue as soon as possible so that you could return to enjoying the holidays in a pest free house.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you need help in getting rid of pests from your house during the holiday season.

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

Protect Christmas Decorations and Pest Control Tips

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You can protect your holiday decorations by ensuring they are pest-free while stored in the attic, basement, or any other storage area until next year. Christmas decorations can be a breeding ground for rodents and other pests. We have compiled some pest control tips for storing your decorations without having problems with pesky critters next year.

Pest Control Tips For Storing Christmas Decorations

If you need to save them, seal them in plastic containers. It’s the best pest control in Myrtle Beach that you need to remember.

1) Mice love dried fruits, seeds, and other natural materials. It is best to keep them in plastic containers. After the holidays, throw out any natural decorations such as candy canes, gingerbread houses, and natural wreaths.

2) Avoid cardboard as a nesting material. Instead, store artificial Christmas trees and other decorations in plastic bags or containers. This applies to all Christmas decorations.

3) Check all decorations to make sure they aren’t broken or won’t be used next year, and then throw them out.

4) To prevent moisture, wash linens and other fabrics.

5) Before you load containers into your garage, basement, attic, or other storage space, inspect them thoroughly and remove any debris that could harbor mice.

6) Keep holiday candles separate. Unwanted guests can be attracted to candles’ scent. This problem can be solved by placing the candles in an area that isn’t exposed to heat extremes (e.g. attics or sheds). To prevent the candles from melting or changing color, wrap them in plastic.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in keeping pests away from your home.

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

Pest Control Tips: Check Your Christmas Decor

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It’s a great excuse to go back in time while unpacking Christmas decorations. Many people find that every ornament and festive decoration they take out of their boxes can bring back memories from past holidays. The holiday season can be set by putting up wreaths or bringing in a Christmas tree. If you unpack any unwanted holiday guests, your joy can be stifled. That’s why you need to know the best pest control tips if you encounter this problem.

Pest Control During The Holidays

Silverfish, spiders, and stink bugs are common pests in cardboard boxes in crawlspaces and basements. While rodents and spiders may be able to ride on your tree or wreaths, they can also take up residence in these boxes.

Pests love old cardboard boxes stuffed with Christmas cards, stockings, popcorn strings, and other decorations. While you won’t be able to see the pests when you bring the boxes into your living room, it is likely that they will show up once you have moved the boxes around. They may then make their way into your home looking for a new hiding place. Pests can be a nuisance and cause distress.

Many people love picking out their Christmas tree every year. It is a family tradition. It is beautiful to bring your tree inside and decorate it during the holidays. There is a good chance that the tree is home to spiders and other pests because it is outside. You could have a pest infestation if they remain on your tree after you bring it inside.

How can you enjoy Christmas decorations without increasing pest risk? These Myrtle Beach pest control tips will help you keep your Christmas decorations safe.

  • Place Christmas decorations in plastic containers with lids.
  • Instead of storing your artificial Christmas tree in its cardboard box, place it in a tree bag.
  • Before you bring your tree into your home, make sure it is healthy.
  • Place Christmas stockings and linens in plastic bags.
  • You can throw out edible decorations like the gingerbread house or candy canes.
  • Before you stack Christmas decorations, clean out your storage space.

Zap Pest Control Inc. is available to help you if you find signs of pests in your Christmas decorations or evidence of pests around your decorations. Our pest control services are available all year to keep rodents, scorpions, roaches, and spiders away from your Christmas decorations and home. It is a great gift to be pest-free during the holidays, but it can also mean a lot of work.

Zap Pest Control Inc. will give your property the care it deserves and provide you with the information you need to understand the pest risks and how to eliminate them. We can also help you avoid pests from setting up their home in your home.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in getting rid of pests from your home, especially during the holiday season.

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

Do You Need Pest Control During Winter?

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The winter season is the time when pest control technicians take a closer look at the interior of various properties, determining new problems that homeowners may not even be aware of. There is particular attention given to inspection so that the home could be well prepared for once the warmer weather starts again. Both rodents and spiders may be a common problem inside during cooler months.

Pest Control During Colder Days

For spiders in particular, webs are removed and pest control specialists treat infested areas and other places where they will most likely try to invade. Rodent activity will be watched closely on attics, crawl spaces, basements so homeowners won’t see signs of activity in areas that are more high profile.

Another important step taken during the winter season is offering full attic treatments. Several pests like boxelder bugs, cluster flies, as well as carpenter ants, conceal themselves and stay dormant in attics until the warm weather comes. During that time, they will invade your property, which will need comprehensive treatment. You can also keep pests out of your house by dusting your attic areas, avoiding the need to deal with them once spring approaches.

When winter comes, that does not mean you should skip on your pest control Myrtle Beach services. You should always be prepared. Zap Pest Control Inc. are experts in the identification and sealing of pest entry areas and the use of pesticides to develop a protective shield for your house. Winter is actually the perfect time to have this barrier because light, moisture, and heat are less of a factor during cooler seasons. This gives you a preventative pest program until the warmer temperature comes.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you are looking for a professional pest control specialist before winter comes.

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

Pest Control Tips This Thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving is about family and sharing wonderful Thanksgiving meals. But all of it can go to waste with the presence of pests in your home. A quick way to ruin your meal is to find a bug in your gravy or mashed potatoes. We wanted to share some pest control tips with you and your family as Thanksgiving is fast approaching.

Common Kitchen Pests

  • Weevils – Commonly found in beans and popcorn, weevils feed off the grains in your cabinet while they lay their larvae.
  • Cockroaches
  • Indian meal moths are very common in the home and grocery store. They love nuts and dry dog food.
  • Ants
  • Flour beetles are small insects that are mostly interested in flour. However, they can also eat tobacco, cracked grains, dried fruits as well as spices.
  • Spider beetles – The spider beetle’s large, round abdomen is what makes it stand out. It also loves cereals, grains, and wool.
  • Flies

Pest Control Tips

Do not leave food unattended

One of the fastest ways to attract pests is to leave food unattended on the counter. Cover the food with plastic wrap or foil. You can also place any leftovers in the fridge after everyone is done. To keep bugs from entering the area, cover any plastic or glass containers with lids.

Do not let the trash pile up

It is easy to let the trash accumulate during Thanksgiving dinner. That trash can attract pests like flies and ants. It can lead to an infestation. Once the trash is full, take it out. Make sure you take the trash outside with a lid.

Keep your lawn clean

Infestations usually start on your lawn and spread to your home. A temperate climate provides grass with enough sun and nutrients to grow throughout the autumn. Keep the grass short and remove any weeds from your yard. A healthy lawn will prevent pest infestations and keep your home safe during holidays.

Invest in proper food containers

For Thanksgiving, invest in plastic storage containers that have lids. After you finish eating, put everything in a container. Label it with the date and name of the food. Pantry pests and rodents love to infest pantry containers. It is best to keep pests out of your food by storing cereal, rice, or flour in their own containers.

Make sure to clean up regularly

Pests will not eat the leftovers and messes that you make while you’re cooking. It is best to clean up after yourself. You can prevent pests from infesting your home and dining room during holidays by cleaning up after meals.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need the help of professional pest control specialists to take care of any pest infestation that you have at home.

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

Tips To Prevent Pests From Ruining Your Thanksgiving Dinner

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Thanksgiving dinner only happens once a year so why should you let pests ruin the dinner that you spent a lot of time preparing? Even in the fall season, pests will not hesitate to come out once they see food. If you would like to keep them at bay, you have to take some pest control tips against invasive pests such as rodents and cockroaches.

Pest Control Tips For A Pest-Free Home During Thanksgiving

Always Cover Your Food

Don’t leave food uncovered because if you do, it will only lure pests like flies. Plastic wraps are one good option or you can also keep them on the fridge once your guests have finished eating. In case you serve food in glass dishware or plastic containers, use lids to cover them so pests are kept at bay.

Do not Allow Trash To Pile Up

It’s very easy to let your garbage pile up one bag after the other. But, that trash will just lure pests such as cockroaches, ants, and flies by the dozens until it becomes a bad infestation. Once the trash can is filled, make sure to take the trash out and put it outside, inside a bin that has a cover.

Lawn Care is a Must

Most pest infestations begin on the lawn and then start to go inside your home. Make sure to mow the lawn grass to a suitable length, and pull out any weeds that may have grown close to your home. A lawn that is well maintained will prevent pest infestation and also stop pest invasions throughout the holidays.

Proper Storage Is Crucial

Buy plastic storage containers that come with lids for Thanksgiving. When you are done eating, you should keep everything neatly tucked away in containers. You can also label them with the name of the food and the date when it was prepared. Rodents and other pantry pests love to investigate any open containers they can find in the cupboard. By storing food properly, you’re keeping pests at bay.

Always Clean Up

Don’t forget to clean up after yourself especially when you are cooking. Sweep the floors and make sure the table and countertops are clean if you want to prevent insects from invading your home. This is one of the most important pest control in Myrtle Beach tips that you must never forget.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need the help of professional pest control specialists to take care of any pest infestation that you have at home.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about pest control services.

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

Termite Treatment: Fall Termite Swarms

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Spring and fall are beautiful seasons. However, they can also bring pests that are not as appealing. Termites can cause up to $5 billion of damage annually and can be difficult for homeowners to control on their own. That’s why termite treatment is necessary.

Zap Pest Control Inc. provides professional termite treatment in Myrtle Beach. We also use pest control products that are registered by the EPA and are safe for you and your family. We believe that these wood-destroying insects are a danger to all homes. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an infestation. Here are some tips and warning signs that will help you determine if these pests have invaded your home.

Termite Treatment: How to Remove Infestations

  • Avoid water accumulation near your foundation as termites love moisture. Water can be diverted away by properly functioning downspouts.
  • Repair any damage to your home caused by a leaky window or roof.
  • Termites thrive in such moisture.
  • Avoid burying wood scraps and other waste lumber over the years, particularly near buildings. Take out any roots and stumps from trees around the house.
  • Eliminate any contact between the soil and wood. You should keep a gap of 1 inch between the soil and wood parts of the house.

Warning Signs of Termite Infestation

  • Swarming occurs in the fall.
  • Evidence of mud tunneling into, under, and over wood structures
  • Wooden structures exhibit darkening or blistering
  • Wood that has been damaged becomes extremely thin and can be easily punctured with a knife or screwdriver.

Experts recommend that you call a pest control specialist in order to protect your home from termite infestation.

Zap Pest Control Inc. has the expertise to remove termite infestation from your home. They have knowledge about residential pest control services and can identify termite species.

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

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

Answers To Commmon Termite Treatment Questions

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Homeowners often have many questions when it comes to termite treatment and other pest control services. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions.

Why should you be concerned about termites?

Each year, termites cause damage worth billions of dollars to homes in the United States. They feed on wood but can also destroy paper, insulation, swimming pool liners, and filtration systems. While termites may infest buildings and homes at any time, they are especially important when selling or buying a because a termite inspection/infestation report is generally a condition of sale. The emotional and financial impact of having thousands of winged termites infesting your home can be devastating.

What is the reason that spring is so popular for finding infestations?

Spring is typically when termites are in large numbers, also known as “swarmers”, and begin to appear inside homes. Termites swarm in nature to spread and establish new colonies. Warmer temperatures and rain trigger the termites to fly out of the colony. After swarming, they fall to the ground and shed their wings. They then pair up with a mate to start new colonies. Termite swarmers that enter a home can damage wood but only last for about one day. You can remove termites with a vacuum or broom.

How can I tell if my house is infested with termites?

Almost always, winged termites found indoors indicate an infestation that needs treatment. Because they are attracted by light, termites are often found around doors and windows.

Termites in large numbers are found on woodpiles and tree stumps. Swarms of termites in your yard do not necessarily indicate that the house has been infested. However, swarmers that appear near the foundation, or from adjacent patios or porches could indicate an infestation.

Another sign of an infestation is the presence of earthen “mud”, tubes that extend over foundation walls, support posts, floor joists, and sill plates.

Sometimes, there won’t be any obvious signs of termites. Termites can hide behind insulation and floor coverings for years and go unnoticed. Exposure to termites can lead to undetected damage and feeding. The outer layer of wood is usually intact so it’s possible for this type of infestation to continue. A professional pest control specialist is often needed to confirm the existence of termites.

Do I have to treat the house?

For home infestations, it is best to avoid going the DIY route when it comes to termite treatment in Myrtle Beach. Special skills are required to rid a home of termites. To identify areas where termites might enter, you need to be familiar with building construction.

Termite treatment is best left to professionals. One exception is if the termites were found on a mailbox or another small wooden object that was not attached to the home. Do-it-yourself products sold at local stores and online will rarely eliminate an existing termite problem.

How do I choose the right termite company to work with?

These are difficult questions. Your state’s Department of Agriculture should license the company. The company should be a member of the state pest management association or the National Pest Management Association to show that they are a well-established firm with the technical and training information necessary to complete the job properly. Referrals are a great help as with any service. It is worth calling at least one company. Asking for estimates and inspections from several pest control specialists will confirm the existence of termites and help you compare their services.

Which termite treatment is the most effective?

There are two main types of termite treatment: liquids and baits. For many decades, liquid termiticides are available. They are designed to create a barrier in the soil that will prevent termites from infesting buildings. Baiting is another treatment option. Termite baits are made up of cellulose-based food and a slow-acting lethal substance. It doesn’t matter what approach you choose, it is important to hire an expert exterminator backed up by a pest control company.

Is the entire house in need of treatment or just where the termites are?

Thousands of termite colonies can be found underground, with many of them moving in different directions. Localized treatments for termites are often risky unless they need to be treated under warranty. Spot treatments are not usually warranted by most residential pest control Myrtle Beach companies, as termites may find other entry points to the building.

How long can the treatment last?

When used according to label instructions, liquid termiticides should be able to control termites for at most five years. The length of control for any home will depend on many factors including the type of termiticide used, the thoroughness of the application, and the area where the termiticide was applied. It is not due to the degradation of the termiticide. Rather, termites may continue to infest the structure year after treatment.

Are the chemicals harmful to my pets and family?

Termiticides undergo extensive testing to determine if they have any adverse health effects. Numerous studies are done by the manufacturer before a product is allowed to be used. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency independently evaluates the results. According to current information, registered termiticides pose little risk to pets and humans when used according to the label instructions. While termite treatments are safe and effective, there is a small health risk. Those with concerns should see their doctor. The newer liquid products are virtually odorless. If you are still apprehensive, it may be worth considering having your home treated with baits.

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

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

Which Is The Better Termite Treatment: Bait or Liquid

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Subterranean termites destroy wood and cost property owners in the country billions of dollars every year in repair costs and extermination. However, it doesn’t have to be like that. You could stop termites even before they get in your home. The two ways that work best are baits and liquid barriers. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of baits and liquid barriers.  Determine which termite treatment works best for you.

Two Types of Termite Treatment

Liquid Barrier

This process, which produces a barrier of termiticides in the soil surrounding a structure to kill off termites that pass through, has been the standard in the industry when it comes to controlling termites for several years. This process is very effective, however, it has two disadvantages.

You need to bore holes and also trench around the structure’s foundation and this could sometimes be filled with problems. Second, there are a few liquid barriers that perform a wonderful job of getting rid of termites. However, they do nothing to eradicate the colony that’s sending workers to go through the barrier. Once the liquid barrier gradually wears out, worker termites will find a way out.

Termite Bait

Baits function in two ways. They could be used to check termites and they could also be used to kill the termite colonies. At Zap Pest Control Inc, we find a pest control method that could monitor and kill these pests.

Termite baiting works by getting rid of the workers in the termite colony. If the worker termites are killed, the colony will be starved of food and will then go into a “decline” or suppression phase. The soldiers and queens will die of starvation since they cannot find food for themselves. If the queens cannot eat since they no longer have workers, they will die and the termite colony will starve and then be eliminated.

Termite baits have cellulose along with a slow-acting insecticide which would disrupt the regular growth process of these pests. Within weeks of eating the bait, termites will be eliminated as they try to molt.

The delayed action is crucial. In case the bait is killed right away, sick as well as dead termites may pile up near stations, boosting the likelihood of avoidance by other pests near the area. The delayed reaction will enhance transmission of the lethal ingredients to their nest mates, such as those that never ingested anything from the termite treatment Myrtle Beach.

Call Zap Pest Control Inc. if you are looking for experts who can deal with termites on your property.

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

How To Avoid A Cockroach Infestation This Winter

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Cockroaches. Where do we start? These prehistoric pests have been around for nearly 300 million years. They are fascinating and adaptable creatures, which is why they’re extremely difficult to control. These are also among the many reasons why it’s difficult to control a cockroach infestation.

Listed below are some tips from pest control experts that can help you prevent a cockroach infestation, especially during the winter season.

Facts About Cockroaches

  • They can stay underwater for 30 minutes
  • They can survive without a head for up to 7 days. They have tiny holes in their bodies that allow them to breathe, which allows them to survive even if they don’t breathe air through their mouths.
  • There are at least 4,000 species of cockroach in the entire world.
  • Cockroaches can run 3 miles in one hour.
  • They can survive without food for one month and without water for one week.

Will A Cockroach Bite You?

The simple answer is yes. These pests are omnivorous which means they can bite you and feed on other animals and plants.

However, the risk of getting bitten by a cockroach is minimal unless the infestation is extreme and they have no other source of food.

Where do cockroaches hide in winter?

Cockroaches are active even during winter. Some may hibernate during this season because they don’t like the cold. They enter what they refer to as diapause, which is referred to as a reduced metabolic state. But they have a wide range of options when it comes to finding food and shelter today, which is why they continue to grow, multiply, and infest homes regardless of the season.

Do Cockroaches Carry Germs

Cockroaches can carry different kinds of germs that cause health problems. They eat anything including rotten food, waste, and feces. They can run up to three miles an hour, which means they can touch and crawl over anything. As long as they’re alive, cockroaches carry germs and bacteria. They’re known to spread various kinds of diseases such as gastroenteritis, salmonella, and even allergic reactions.

How to prevent cockroach infestation?

It may seem like there’s no way to get rid of these pests. But there are ways to prevent cockroaches from infesting your home not only during winter but all year round. Here are some Myrtle Beach pest control tips you need to know.

  • Always keep your kitchen clean. As much as possible, spend at least 15 minutes tidying up your kitchen every night.
  • Put away the dishes and wash them right away.
  • Sweep your kitchen floor and get rid of any crumbs or food particles that may attract cockroaches.
  • Take out your garbage regularly.
  • Vacuum hard-to-reach spaces like under your table and couch.
  • Seal any openings around your home that may be used by pests as entry points.
  • Hire an exterminator to get rid of cockroaches. A trained pest control specialist know what to do with these pests.

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

Like our Facebook page for more great info about pest control services.

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