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Should You Worry About the Venom of the Top 5 Common Spiders in Your Home?

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date June 30, 2021

Should You Worry About the Venom of the Top 5 Common Spiders in Your Home?

Seeing spider webs on Halloween is a fun, spooky treat for young and old alike. However, if you spot spider webs in your home, it can be eerily creepy. If you cannot tolerate these webs, no one will blame you as they make your house look unsightly.

On top of that, seeing these critters elicit fear. You cannot help but wonder if your home’s resident arachnids are poisonous or not. Should you squash them with your slippers and hope for the best?

Notably, spiders are part of the ecosystem because they prey on pests like flies, mosquitoes, moths, and gnats. Check out this quick guide to help you determine which of the five common spiders are a health hazard. This can help you determine if you can perform DIY treatments or seek professional pest control.

1. The American House Spider

The National Wild Life Federation says this creepy-crawly lives up to its name as it is indeed the most common house spider in North America. They are usually off-white or a yellowish brown with spots on their abdomens. They measure 4 to 9 millimeters long with bulging bellies and skinny legs.

They love living close to humans, so it is common to find them in these areas:

Closet
Under furniture
Window frames

They thrive in dark and moist places, creating classic-looking cobwebs. However, you should not fear them as they are not aggressive. In fact, when they see people, they tend to run and hide rather than bite.

Of course, it is a different story if you try to grab and crush them. In this case, the bitten area can feel tingly and itchy. However, the bites are not lethal, so you can wash them off with soap.

2. The Jumping Spider

This spider gets its name from the unique way it feasts on its prey. They jump on their meals and can astoundingly leap 25x the length of their own bodies. These spiders are unique because they do not build webs. You will typically find them outdoors, especially in grassy areas.

According to the National Geographic, these spiders have two distinct characteristics. First, the shape of their bodies is unique. Second, they have four large eyes in the front of the head, with the other four positioned at the back of the head. Though there are almost 6 thousand variants of Jumping Spiders, they all share these two distinguishing features.

Since they mostly stay outdoors, you do not need to worry about them infiltrating your house. However, if you like to hang out on your patio, you may get bitten, which will only cause minor skin discomfort. Thankfully, their bites are not lethal, so it is up to you if you want to get rid of them or keep them feasting to take out harmful mosquitoes and annoying flies.

3. The Brown Recluse Spider

This is another spider that is perfectly named because it is reclusive and shy. You may have a hard time spotting this species because they are nocturnal in nature. You will typically spot them in secluded areas like:

Underneath porches
Deep within closets
In hidden corners
High up in attics

This spider can be light or dark brown with violin-looking markings on its back. You will know it is a Brown Recluse because these spiders have six eyes arranged in a semi-circle. They are longer, too, at 6 to 11 millimeters long.

Though it is rare for this creature to bite humans, you must take the bite seriously. Their venom is poisonous and can cause reactions like chills, fever, and nausea. It would be best to seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

If you spot this variant living in your home, you must call for professional pest control. They have a long life and are extremely resilient. They can lay 150 eggs annually, so you can deal with a major infestation if you do not nip things in the bud.

4. The Wolf Spider

The Wolf varies in size with a range of 10 to 35 millimeters. They are hairy and brown, so some people confuse them with a Brown Recluse or Tarantula. However, these spiders do not build webs and burrow in the ground.

You can usually spot them outdoors in your garden, the woods, or riverbanks. However, they can come creeping into your home when the weather turns cold because they seek warmth. Though they are not aggressive, they can still bite.

Fortunately, the bites are not lethal. You will know that they are ready to attack with they stretch their legs and show their fangs. Since they are large, you must get out of the way. Otherwise, you may get red welts that itch.

5. The Black Widow Spider

This spider type has earned a notorious reputation because of how it looks and the way it acts. Live Science says females supposedly eat the males after mating. In fact, these solitary spiders that prefer staying in the ground only interact when it is mating seasons.

Females are lustrous black with yellow, orange, or red spots. They measure 3 to 10 millimeters long and have a red hourglass on their abdomens. Meanwhile, males look the same but without the red hourglass. They are also usually half the size of females.

Pay close attention when you see these spiders as they are venomous. They are a health hazard in your home. If you get bitten, you can feel the following symptoms:

Chills
Fever
Nausea
Abnormal sweating
Vomiting
Severe back pain
Debilitating belly pain
Skin inflammation

Noteworthy, the female Black Widow has more potent venom than a rattlesnake. Though the male is much less potent, it is equally dangerous too. If you get bitten, seek medical intervention right away.

On top of that, do not forget to call your pest control specialist to eradicate these treacherous spiders from your property. It will be a terrible shame if you and your children get bitten by one.

Call for Professional Help

If you have spotted any of these spiders on your property, you may want a professional to inspect your home. Though most spiders are harmless, you do not want to take your chances. The last thing you need is a dangerous and deadly arachnid in your home.

Should you live in St. George, Utah and need advice, call us at Nature's Gate Pest Control company. Our team is ready to help you prevent spider infestations inside your home and in your garden. We can identify the variant and set up a safety plan to ensure poisonous spiders stay far away from your family.

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6 Reasons Why Businesses Must Prevent Pests from Eating Profits with Commercial Pest Control

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date June 30, 2021

6 Reasons Why Businesses Must Prevent Pests from Eating Profits with Commercial Pest Control

You must not let pests eat your profits by investing in commercial pest control. As a business owner, you need to take a proactive approach to make sure your establishment is free from pests. You do not want rodents, roaches, termites, bed bugs, and more to co-exist with your clients.

They are pesky nuisances that not only cause property damage but harm the health, too. With professional pest control, you can ensure customer satisfaction and retention. But, more importantly, you can prevent future infestations and avoid unexpected repairs.

Thus, if you want to avert time-consuming and expensive treatments that result in downtime for your business, vigilance against pests is key. In addition, you must consider the potential impact of pest infestation on your operations. Take note of these six compelling reasons why you ought to protect your property from pests.

1. Harm Health by Being Carriers of Diseases

Pest infestations are harmful to the health of your employees, visitors, and clients because they carry disease-causing pathogens. They can contaminate food and drinking water. Accidentally touching their urine and feces can also make you ill.

For example, when mice solid waste dries up, they turn to dust. Hence, you can accidentally inhale them, resulting in respiratory problems. On top of that, rodents can cause various illnesses like:

Leptospirosis
Hantavirus
Salmonellosis
Typhoid fever
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis

Even something as tiny as a bed bug can feed off your guests. As a result, they get skin bumps, rashes, and welts. Thus, you must be proactive in driving out these pests because you do not want anyone to become ill on your premises.

Moreover, health issues can result in potential lawsuits. Deter this problem by getting regular pest inspection and control treatments. Take preventive measures to ensure pests do not invade your commercial property.

2. Cause Extensive and Expensive Property Damage

Pests are ugly critters that cause damage to your business facility. They are certainly small but terrible. For instance, tiny little termite colonies can lead to extensive structural damage that can compromise the integrity of your whole building. Unfortunately, resolving this issue requires expensive treatments.

In fact, experts say that large termite colonies can eat up to a pound of wood daily. Unfortunately, this can go on unnoticed for many years. By the time you see visible problems, the impact is already severe.

Similarly, pesky rodents love gnawing on electrical wires and cables to trim down their sharp incisors. As a result, your facility can have a short circuit that eventually creates an electrical fire. Therefore, if you do not want to compromise your business and lose your investments, you must take a serious approach to seek commercial pest control solutions customized for your operations.

3. Affect the Productivity of Employees

No one can work comfortably in a place full of rodents, cockroaches, ants, spiders, and more. Your employees cannot concentrate on their tasks if they share their working space with pests, and the thought of a rodent nearby can make anyone break into a sweat.

As a result, instead of focusing on their work, they worry about getting bitten by rats and roaches. They may also worry about driving the pests away. If you do not want your employee performance to suffer, nip pest issues in the bud. Besides, addressing complaints about pests can be rather tedious.

Remember, infestations keep your staff from completing their daily responsibilities. A dip in productivity will adversely affect your company’s bottom line. Avoid this situation by removing pests that deter them from effectively fulfilling their roles and duties.

4. Harm the Reputation of Businesses

When it comes to doing business, reputation is everything. After all, customers will only patronize establishments they trust. If your clients feel you are not credible, you will lose their patronage and support.

Remember, the presence of pests will harm your company’s reputation. For example, roaches in your restaurant will turn off people because they deem your establishment is unsafe and unhygienic. In addition, pest sightings in any business can result in negative reviews online.

Unfortunately, this does not only alienate your existing clients, but it also turns off your new leads and prospects. Make no mistake about this, as pests have the power to bring a thriving business down in no time.

5. Reduce Commercial Property Value

Pest infestations are disgusting and unsightly. They damage your commercial property from the inside out. As a result, these nasty critters take a toll on the aesthetic and curbside appeal of your establishment. They can make:

Holes in the walls
Cracks in the ceiling
Leave urine and poop droppings
Damage wiring
Create unsightly nests
Destroy baseboards and flooring

All these things bring down the value of your commercial property, bringing down its worth. If you do not want your brand’s high esteem to become tarnished, proactive measures are a top priority. Thus, you must include regular pest control for your routine maintenance.

6. Result in More Expensive Operational Expenses

When you have pets in your commercial property, it can increase your daily operational expenses. Since pests do not discriminate and infest small to large enterprises, you can expect to deal with major damage. One study showed that businesses in the US alone spent $6.8 billion more on operating causes due to pest infestation while suffering a total revenue loss of $13.2 billion.

Pests can wreak havoc in your operations. With pests invading your business, you deal with the following:

Pay regulatory fines and penalties
Increased maintenance costs
More costly site repairs
Replace damaged equipment
Contaminated raw materials
Destroyed finished products

Seek Pest Control Treatment from a Reputable Company

You must address potential threats in your business before things escalate and get out of hand. Attempting in-house pest control may initially offer relief, but this is only a temporary fix and not a long-term solution. Keep in mind; your staff is not trained to manage large commercial outbreaks and infestations.

Hence, it is vital to reach out to a reputable company with knowledge, tools, and solutions to deal with commercial establishments. If you need help in St. George, Utah, and nearby areas, call our team at Nature’s Gate Pest Control because we specialize in identifying pests and applying effective control methods. We will assure your business runs smoothly so pests do not affect your employees' productivity, impact your daily operations, and cut your profits.

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Do Not Waste Your Investment in a New Home Without Getting Proper Pest Inspection and Control Services

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date June 30, 2021

Do Not Waste Your Investment in a New Home Without Getting Proper Pest Inspection and Control Services

Whether you are buying a new home, building one from the ground up, or purchasing a pre-loved dream home, you need pest control services before you move in. New homes are as prone to pest infestation as old ones. If you are wondering if you need this pest inspection and control treatment before the big move, you have come to the right place. Keep on reading so you can stay informed and make the best choice for yourself and your loved ones.

Pest Inspection Before the Final Sale

If you are buying an older home in the second-hand market, you need pest inspection and control services before finalizing your purchase. After all, you are investing hundreds of thousands of dollars for the long haul. Hence, you need to pay close attention to details before signing the contract.

Remember, regular standard home appraisal only look at the superficial areas to check for the home's value. It does not include deeper assessments like rodent control or termite treatment. Hence, you must ensure you are putting funds into the best house to protect your hard-earned money. Here is how pest inspection will help:

1. Tells you about existing issues

Identifying issues before the move-in date means performing measures to address the problem. It would be harder for your family to do fumigation or other extermination treatments while you and your belongings are there. Solving the pest problem before you settle down and redecorate makes the most sense.

2. Mitigate feelings of regret

When you buy a house, you do not have room for buyer’s remorse. There is a no return or exchange policy. Hence, you need to know about potential outbreaks ahead because they do not only damage property but harm your family’s health. Besides, getting rid of these pests equate to money, so getting pest treatment ahead provides the peace of mind that you are getting a truly pest-free, clean home.

3. Provide an edge during negotiations

Getting pest inspection for a potential new home will state whether the property is truly a good deal or not. If you find pests, you can negotiate with the seller to have them treated before you finalize the deed of sale. Another option is asking the seller to reduce the contract price so you can offset future costs. This approach assures you to pay a fair price for what you are buying.

4. Reveal hidden issues

With pest inspection, you reveal any hidden issues that are not visible to the eyes. This gives you a thorough and complete picture of the house. As such, you can make an educated choice whether to proceed with the sale or not.

Pest Control Before Moving into New Builds

Unbeknownst to most, construction sites serve as a huge temptation that lures in pests. You can see how dirty and dusty these zones become. Thus, bugs and rodents naturally gravitate towards them. For this reason, you need pest control services before moving in to prevent infestations. Making this choice can save you tons of money in the future. Here is why:

1. Seal gaps and other cracks

Even new homes can possess tiny gaps and cracks along the foundation or exterior walls. They are tiny for human eyes but not for pests like termites. Leaving your new home untreated means, you can have creepy-crawlies moving in with your family. Thus, it would be better to have a pest control assessment to create preventive plans that are suited for your new home.

2. Provide a fix to messy construction zones

Since construction areas are not squeaky clean, pests will naturally build their nests while construction is underway. After all, construction areas contain a lot of waste like:

Wood shavings
Debris
Mounds of soil
Cardboard boxes
Wood chips
Papers
Human waste
Food debris

All the items mentioned above tempt pests to come in and settle down on your property. Most of them even use the materials to build their nests. Seeking pest removal assures you can eradicate them all before you move in.

3. Deal with potentially contaminated materials

As construction commences, all the materials are in the open. They become damp, which lures insects. For example, an entomological study said termites and wood borers love moist wood because it is yummy and keeps them from dehydrating. Hence, if you want to be sure none of the materials in your home harbor pests within, call for professional pest inspection and treatment.

4. Address the destruction of habitats within the vicinity

Typically, home constructions destroy the animal habitats near the new development. To illustrate, when construction clearing disturbs the rat population nearby, they will find a new home. For this reason, you need pest management to ensure they never relocate in your house.

Getting preventive treatment deters future infestations, which can result in more complex and expensive problems. If you wonder what common pests you need to deal with in new homes, these are:

Rats
Mice
Gophers
Beavers
Spiders
Ants
Termites

Seek the Best Pest Control Service in Town

No one wants to share their home with a pest. The number one rule of pest control is prevention. Keeping a clean home and putting up preventive treatments assure you can keep infestations at bay. As a new homeowner, the last thing you want is a pest invasion, so being vigilant and proactive will go a long way to securing your new abode.

Avoid aggravation and frustration by seeking help from reputable professionals. Remember, the cheapest treatment is not necessarily the best option. When it comes to pest control, you need the most efficient and effective methods because pests will destroy your property and harm your family’s health.

Finding the best team for your new home will grant you the peace of mind you deserve. Our team at Nature’s Gate Pest Control company will ensure your property is pest-free using safe and eco-friendly solutions. We have been serving St. George, Utah, and nearby areas for decades.

We can provide pest treatments and recommend a preventive plan to keep your new home spanking new and fresh for the long haul. Call our hotline if you need help, and we promise to provide the best pest control services that do not harm the earth nor your health.

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10 Compelling Signs That Indicate You’ve Got a Problematic Termite Infestation in Your Property

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date June 30, 2021

10 Compelling Signs That Indicate You’ve Got a Problematic Termite Infestation in Your Property

It is a nightmare to have a termite infestation in your home. It is not only unsightly, but it can lead to extensive and expensive property damage. When termites compromise the structural foundation of your home, it can even put the safety of your whole family at risk.

Many believe that temperate climates do not need to worry about termites because the cold weather is a deterrent. However, even in places like Utah, you must deal with termite swarms the moment spring blooms, and the weather turns pleasant. This problem also goes in full force over the hot and dry summer season.

And since termites are good at staying hidden, they can persist even in cold weather. The worst part is you may not even be aware you have a full-fledged infestation until it is too late. It would help to know warning signs ahead so you can immediately call for pest control and prevent an escalation. Look at these top 10 warning signs that show you have termites.

1. Checking for Swarms in the Yard

Termite swarms are common in your garden. Unfortunately, some often mistake these flying bugs for normal insects. That’s one fatal mistake because an NC State study says termite swarm means the original colony has reached capacity, so they are ready for expansion.

If you spot a termite swarm in your yard, it is time to call in the pros to kill them before they invade your home. These swarms signify that winged adults are ready to fly away from the original nest. Hence, you must prevent them from establishing new colonies in your home.

2. Seeing Discarded Wings

If you see discarded wings in your yard, driveway, patio, or windowsills, this is a huge red flag. When the swarms age, the first thing they let go of is their wings. They no longer need them as they are ready to thrive in the new colony.

Hence, spotting scattered wings in your property is a sign that you have got termites around. If you see them, call a pest removal team right away. Do not delay so you can fix the problem ahead before they start decimating the wooden parts of your home.

3. Spotting Frass Pellets

When you see frass that looks like tiny pellets, this is huge evidence of termite infestation. Frass is termite droppings. Remember, when they feast on the wood in your home, they make tunnels as they go along. Consequently, eating equates to defecation, so they leave droppings as they go.

This frass usually falls out from the holes they create, so you can see them compile into mounds. They look like a powdery substance or brownish marks. They are tiny, measuring one millimeter. You may sometimes mistake them for wood shavings or even sawdust.

4. Noticing Mud Tubes

Termites that live below the soil make mud tubes. A study from Mississippi State University says these mud tubes are like small tunnels in the soil which allow termites to move freely. In addition, these narrow pathways retain moisture, which assures termites do not dehydrate and dry out. You can usually see these tubes around your yard leading to your home’s foundation.

5. Keeping an Eye Out for Hollowed Out Wood

Usually, termites eat the wood from the inside out. There are usually entryways that allow them to access the interior cavity. If you tap on the wood, you will notice that it is no longer solid but hollow inside.

This is one of the primary signs of termite damage. Hence, you should keep an eye out for blistering wood. Likewise, those that look like they are ready to erupt indicates a major sign of infestation.

6. Observing Damage to Exterior Wood

Once the termites eat the interiors, they work on the exteriors. Eventually, the destruction will manifest externally. Thus, any wood that appears damaged proves that termites exist on your property.

Notably, any exposed or bare wood is a temptation for termites. They love them, especially rotted wood. They love them, especially rotted wood outside your home. The subterranean variant is especially attracted to moisture-damaged wood as it deters dehydration and helps them survive while they nest.

Hence, if you have a lot of exposed wood over your home, you need to constantly check for infestation. If you see that the wood constantly changes, this is a major sign that you need to call in the pros.

7. Sighting Pests in the Home

An obvious clue is seeing the actual bugs inside your home. They can be in cracks within your walls, or they could be munching on your baseboards. When you spot them inside, call for immediate inspection and removal because it shows that you have a terrible infestation.

8. Bubbling Paint that Looks Uneven

If your paint suddenly appears weird because of an uneven surface or bubbling, this is a sign that moisture has built up. It could either mean you have a water leak that has resulted in this damage, or it could also be termite infestation, so a pest control inspection is necessary.

9. Recognizing Persistent Outdoor Issues

When you see wood shavings or tiny holes in nearby trees around your house, that is a sign you have termites nearby. You can verify by getting a shovel and digging a bit of soil to inspect the area around the roots. From there, you can see if termites have a nesting ground near your house.

Do not readily dismiss an outdoor infestation because it is not within your house. Notably, nearby trees harboring termite nests prove dangerous. Once they damage the tree, it can fall into your home and garden. Besides, having them near you means they can readily make their way inside.

10. Hearing Weird Noises

Termite soldiers make clicking noises from within walls, baseboard, ceilings, and floors. They do it when they shake their bodies or band their heads in the interior walls. On top of that, they sometimes make noise when they feed.

If you hear weird noises in your home, do not chalk it up to your imagination. Instead, call for an inspection right away. Our team at Nature’s Gate Pest Control is ready to help eradicate a termite colony. Call us right away for suitable treatments that are harsh on pests but will not harm your family.

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How to Decide If Pest Control is Right for You

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date May 3, 2021

How to Decide If Pest Control is Right for You

As a homeowner, you already know that not every pest problem warrants professional help. After all, there are home remedies from the grocery or hardware stores that allow you to save money on service fees. You can also try alternative DIY methods recommended by the NPIC (National Pesticide Information Control). All-natural options include things like lemon, cinnamon, or peppermint.

However, some complex problems require you to make a bigger decision. When you have done home treatments that do not work, calling the pros is the only answer. On top of that, you must keep in mind that some infestations escalate quickly. At times, nipping them in the bud with the aid of a pest control company will save you money in the long run.

Most of all, calling for professional help will protect you and your family from aggravation and frustration. Remember, pests can harm your health, so you don’t want a serious medical emergency like leptospirosis (courtesy of rats) or Lyme disease (from ticks). Here are some signs that may help you decide that it is the right time to call for professional help.

Experiencing Actual Pest Sightings

The number one clear sign that creepy crawlies have invaded your home is seeing the pests with your own eyes. This includes anything from insect eggs to rodents. Whether you see them dead or alive, it is a clear indicator that you have a big problem in your midst.

Noteworthy, the more sightings you have, the more complex the problems are. Above all, seeing them during the day is a huge red flag. Pests generally hide and come out at night. When you spot them in the morning, it is time to call your pest control service.

Seeing Evidence of Existence

Another top indicator of pest infestation is evidence left behind by the creatures. Though insects and rodents are experts in camouflage, they cannot hide and cover their existence all the time. Usually, they will leave behind trails of evidence. For instance, you may see the following:

Poop droppings
Urine marks
Exoskeleton or shed body parts
Grease marks
Shed fur
Scratch mark
Foot markings

Remember, pests urinating and defecating on your property are dangerous. Many studies show that pest excrement carries dangerous bacteria, pathogens, and germs that can make you ill. If you see a lot of the elements mentioned above, seeking professional services will help.

Spotting Gnaw Markings on Food Containers

Pests need shelter, food, and water to survive. They need all three which are in your home. It becomes even more crucial during winter when their necessities become scarce. Hence, they feel more vigilant in infiltrating your house during this period.

If you see gnaw marking on food containers and packaging, this is evidence that you are co-existing with pests who want to find a meal. The top offender for this is rodents, who have the basic urge to gnaw to grind down their fast-developing incisors.

Finding Visible Signs of Structural Damage

Sharing your property with pests is not appealing as it is unhealthy and unhygienic. Most of all, these creatures can cause serious structural damage. If left untreated, this can seriously affect your financial health. For example, termites can burrow into wood structures. They can eat your beams, affecting your home’s foundation and stability.

Similarly, rodents can create deep holes throughout your home, affecting your structural support. They can also nibble or gnaw through your electrical wires, causing a short circuit and fire. If you see these signs, call your pest control company right away, along with your general contractor.

Hearing Weird Sounds

Certain insects make buzzing and whirring sounds when they swarm. The same goes for rodents, who are quite noisy at night as they are nocturnal creatures. You may hear them clawing your walls or scratching your ceiling. They could also make a racket in your food pantry as they forage for food. The sound of the tiny pitter-patter of scurrying feet is a huge red flag. If you are confident that the sounds are not a figment of your imagination, you need professional help to eradicate the problem.

Noticing Foul Odor

When you have a pest problem, you will most likely smell a foul odor emanating from your home. Most professionals can readily identify an issue based on the stench. Look at the following examples:

A heavy oil smell is associated with roaches
Ammonia-like scent can be attributed to mice
Infectiously sweet aroma by your bed is due to bed bugs

Dealing with the weird odor can be hard to stomach. Worst of all, the smell will also attract even more pests to come inside your home. If you do not want the problem to worsen, professional help is in order.

Spotting Their Habitat

Pests seek refuge inside your house for survival. However, they do more than board with you. They will take pains to create their own living space in your house. Mice and rats are notorious for using paper and other debris to create their comfy nests. Inside, it is common for them to procreate and make a litter of babies.

In the same token, insects can make hives or create long tunnels that lead to their home base. If you have these annoying pest habitats within your house, it can lead to a huge problem because it means they will never leave. Do not wait for them to grow and multiply even more. Seeking professional advice is the top priority.

Calling for Expert Help

Have you ever observed these red flags in your home? If you answered yes to any of the above categories, it is time to give our team at Natures Gate Pest Control Company a call. Our highly trained team will perform a complete inspection.

From there, we can curate a pest control treatment plan to eradicate the infestation. Our fully vetted team has been serving St. George, Utah, and nearby communities for decades. You can rest assured as we do our utmost best to protect your property and keep your family secure with our environmentally sound solutions.

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Best DIY Ant Prevention Methods

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date May 3, 2021

Best DIY Ant Prevention Methods

If the idea of ants crawling all over your home makes your skin crawl, you are not alone. It is not a pleasant experience to see a swarm of ants. An ant or two crawling on your kitchen counter may not seem bothersome, but this signifies thousands are hiding somewhere nearby. After all, ants are clannish creatures that live in colonies. Clearly, no one can ever tolerate this scenario, so you want to eradicate the problem and prevent the pesky critters from coming back.

Remember, as the warmer weather sets in, these ant colonies become more vigilant in trying to invade your home. Fortunately, you can rely on non-toxic and all-natural methods to keep them away. After all, traditional bug sprays have harmful chemicals that harm your health and the environment. If you are looking for safer methods, you have come to the right place. Let’s get started to get your DIY game on to get ants out of your home.

Use a Combo of Glass Cleaner and Liquid Detergent

Most likely, you already have spray-on glass cleaner, liquid detergent, or liquid dish soap. Combining the glass cleaner and liquid detergent or soap will prevent ants from coming into your house. The mixture removes the attractive pheromone scent that ants leave when they walk. It is for this reason that ants always make a trail. Now, when you spray your concoction, you eradicate this path and make it difficult for them to find their way.

For best results, spray this mixture on the areas where you often see them. You can let it evaporate naturally if you wish. But if you do not want to leave your floorboards or countertops slightly damp, you can wipe it off as it will leave a light residue.

Utilize Existing Items in Your Cupboard

You do not need to go far to create your DIY ant prevention solutions. Look inside your kitchen cupboard. You will be amazed to see that you can use many basic kitchen ingredients to ward off ants. Look at them below:

1. Cinnamon

Ground cinnamon is not only a base spice used for the iconic apple pie. A study in the National Center for Biotechnology Information suggests that the scent of cinnamon is an irritant for ants. You get a bonus as this spice makes your house smell nice. To prevent these pesky critters, you can use it in the following ways:

Apply ground cinnamon powder directly where they are coming in from windowsills to baseboards.
Make a cinnamon mixture by combining the powder or essential oil to spray all over your house.
Soak up cinnamon oil in cotton balls and leave them in cabinets and drawers.
Use a cotton bud dipped in cinnamon oil to make borders around your house so ants will not cross it.

2. Vinegar

The pungent smell of vinegar drives ants away. It is not surprising that this fermented acid will turn off ants. When vinegar dries out, humans can no longer discern the scent, but it remains irritating to ants. You can pour the acid directly on the ant nest, spray it on the path, or inject them into cracks. Another prevention method is to use a 50:50 vinegar-water solution for maintenance. Use it for mopping floors or cleaning your counters and watch your ant problems disappear.

3. Lemon

Using pure lemon juice sprayed on paths will keep ants away because they cannot tolerate the strong acidic scent. A study showed the juice itself would not directly kill them, but it will disrupt their tracking sense. As a result, the scent trails they leave are rendered useless, so the other ants have no paths to follow. The strong citrus scent also discourages them from staying on your property. Apart from the juice, you can also leave behind lemon peels in susceptible areas as it emits the same scent.

4. Pepper

Another efficient ant irritant is pepper. This condiment, whether black or red, will deter ants. You can sprinkle the powder directly in areas where ants often congregate. As this powder is all-natural, you do not need to worry about it. You can also put the pepper powder behind your appliances and furniture or along your windowsills.

Leverage the Minty Power of Peppermint

This plant is known for its minty taste and fresh scent. Fortunately, a study at Cornell University indicates that peppermint essential oil works against ants. Though humans may find the cool scent calming and clearing for the nasal passages, it will annoy these tiny insects. For best results, you can use peppermint via:

Make a peppermint spray solution with ten drops of essential oil with 1 cup of water plus a drop of liquid soap and blast the concoction wherever they congregate.
Soak up cotton balls with peppermint oil and leave them in cabinets, shelves, and drawers.
Buy peppermint plants and leave them by your windowsill, entryways, and windows.

Change Some Lifestyle Habits

The best approach to kill ants is to change your lifestyle habits. After all, they enter your house to forage for food. If there is none readily available, ants will have no reason to infiltrate your home. Take note of the following suggestions:

1. Proper Food Storage

Keep your food stored rather than leaving them in cabinets or countertops. Place them in tightly sealed containers. Make it a point not to leave any residue on the covers.

2. Deal with Messes Right Away

You must be vigilant in cleaning up any food mess. Spills happen, but quickly wiping and disinfecting will help. Most of all, watch out for crumbs in the following areas:

Couch cushions
Trash bins
Countertops
Inside toasters or microwave ovens
Other areas where you eat and do food prep

3. Clean Up After Pets

Store pet food, which ants love. Moreover, remove pet bowls when they are done eating. Be sure to rinse the bowl to take away the scent.

Call for Professional Help

After trying natural remedies, but the stubborn ants keep coming back, it is time to call eco-friendly professionals. Our team at Natures Gate Pest control company will eliminate your problem using all-natural methods that will not harm your family. We can identify what type of ants you are dealing with and craft effective solution plans to eliminate the problem. Our trained team serves St. George, Utah, and other nearby areas with the mission to free your home from pesky invaders.

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Why Eco-Friendly Pest Control is Considered the Trendiest and Most Effective Method Today

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date May 3, 2021

Why Eco-Friendly Pest Control is Considered the Trendiest and Most Effective Method Today

When swarms of pests and insects invade your home, the first instinct of the majority is to
conquer them with the most potent products on the market. Usually, when there is a severe
infestation, people reach for that synthetic chemical to destroy the problem quickly, no matter
the consequences. But here is the harsh truth, utilizing potent pesticides in your home and the
surrounding areas can be dangerous for your family’s health and the environment.

Thus, reverting to eco-friendly approaches to managing creepy crawlies is much safer. You should
give this green technique a chance to handle your pest problem, and any toxic sprays should be
your last resort. If you feel ambivalent about the efficacy of an environmentally friendly
method or are unfamiliar with how it works, continue reading as this article outlines them for
you.

The Issues with Chemical Pest Control

A study published in Reviews of Environmental Health revealed that over 1 billion pounds of chemicals pesticides are utilized in America every year. This figure is disheartening because many researchers have proven that harsh substances harm the environment as well as people’s health. Look at the severe repercussions below:

Environmental Effects of Chemical Formulations

Even if you only apply a small amount of pesticide, like bug spray in a small space, the particles can still travel outside via air, water, or soil. In fact, these harsh elements can remain on the earth for many days, which can cause significant issues in the ecosystem.

Pesticide usage has severely impacted the balance of the earth. To illustrate, they link it to the decline of the honeybee populations. These bees do not only produce honey, but they help in the propagation of flora. Unfortunately, a paper published by the Ohio State University shared they have been declining annually by 30% percent since 2006. Aside from that, chemical treatments also kill off other pollinators like:

Butterflies
Hummingbirds
Lizards
Small mammals

Remember, the environment welcomes all sorts of creatures. It must maintain a delicate balance for ecological processes and food chains which ultimately affect survival. It will affect human welfare if insects and other animals become extinct. Moreover, releasing toxic gases into the earth affects air quality, further depletes the damaged ozone layer, and perpetuates global warming.

Health Problems Linked with Pesticides

Even a tiny exposure to pesticides is hazardous to human health. The WHO (World Health Organization) reported there are 3 million cases of pesticide poisoning annually. On top of that, there are around 220,000 deaths because of it. Short-term health issues include:

Skin allergies
Eye irritation
Nausea
Headaches
Vomiting
Dizziness

Furthermore, consistent exposure to these toxins is linked to severe health problems like:

Cancer
Birth defects
Blood disorders
Nerve damage
Genetic anomalies
Reproduction problems

Even your beloved fur babies can become sick, ranging from fever to respiratory failure, when they ingest harsh pesticides. With the above health issues, you must exercise caution in spraying your home with toxic pesticides.

The Benefits of Eco-Friendly Approaches

Eco-friendly solutions such as DIY organic treatments and choosing a pest control company that uses biological products are your best bet. Apart from being safer for people and the earth, consider the following perks of utilizing minimally invasive and non-toxic pest control:

Proven Efficacy with Lasting Results

This approach is as effective as traditional treatments. Notably, you can expect better long-term results with eco-friendly methods. For example, insects eventually become resistant to toxic chemicals, which they pass on to their offspring. As a result, it becomes more complex to eradicate an infestation. In contrast, environmentally sound treatments do not yield the same genetic resistance. Moreover, eco-solutions do not provide a band-aid fix. They get to the root of the problem, so you will not experience the same issues again.

Preserves Landscaping

Typically, old-school pest control needs constant re-application. Unfortunately, these harsh elements also damage the health of your yard. With exposure, your grass, bushes, and other flowers can die. Unfortunately, the chemicals stay in the soil for a long time, so rebuilding your landscaping can be a problem. If you do not want to damage your garden, eco-friendly methods are better.

Prevents Harm to Pets and Friendly Insects

Toxic chemicals kill everything! That is why bees are declining. If you want to protect your beloved pets and other useful organisms, choosing a friendlier method of pest control is the answer. Hire an eco-friendly company that uses gentler methods. You will not fear your fur babies ingesting deadly chemicals.

No Strong Odor

In general, conventional chemical products linger in the air even long after they have been applied. You will notice they have a strong, pungent scent. You certainly do not want your family to breathe air infused with toxins. On the other hand, eco-friendly pest control treatments do not give off a harsh lingering odor.

Enjoy Utmost Convenience

When using toxic pest control, you may need to clear out your pantry, cover your utensils, and protect your other furniture. At times, you must vacate your property. In contrast, the green method is minimally toxic. Hence, you do not need to fret over deserting your property during treatment. It will not disturb your life and routine, offering the most convenience.

The Key to Successful Eco-Friendly Treatments

The key to a successful treatment plan for your home is working with the right company. You must ascertain that your chosen service provider has the skills, knowledge, and tools to address your pest problems without bringing poison and toxic products into your house. Finding an eco-friendly exterminator that uses biological controls like oils and scents with greener solutions assure safety for your family, pets, and the environment.

If you need help, our team at Nature’s Gate Pest Control company lives up to our name. We care about nature. Thus, we are committed to providing the best eco-friendly pest control solutions in St. George, Utah, and nearby communities. Our long list of happy clients vouches that our special green formulas and extermination methods are proven super safe and effective. If you think all-natural and organic is not effective and affordable, our team is prepared to change your mind. Call us today for a free consultation, and we will be happy to help you.

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Why It is Imperative to Consider Pest Control as a Preventive Measure for Newly Built Homes

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date May 3, 2021

Why It is Imperative to Consider Pest Control as a Preventive Measure for Newly Built Homes

Many people work under the fallacy that you do not need pest control services if you purchase a newly constructed home. However, the painful truth is new homes are as susceptible to insects and rodents as older houses. It is time to bust the myth with hard facts. If you are wondering why, you need pest control for a brand, spanking custom-built house, keep on reading.

The Reasons Your New Home Needs Pest Control

New homes will benefit from pest control because construction sites are the prime spot that attracts pests. If you have ever seen a construction zone, you know how dirty and dusty it can become. As such, you can expect rodents, ants, spiders, and even termites to take an interest in your property.
Therefore, planning for pest control before you move in will help deter massive infestations. It is a smart decision that will save you in the long run because you can keep pests out for years to come. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes the importance of pest control in housing. Here are the top reasons why pest prevention for your new home is crucial:

Deal with Cracks and Gaps

Your new home can have cracks and gaps along the foundation and walls, which may not be visible to your eyes. This means if you leave your new house untreated, pests can move in along with you. For best results, seeking pest control services can help craft a custom plan that protects your home.

Find Solutions for the Unclean Construction Area

Remember, new homes are not in a sealed, squeaky clean environment. Hence, insects and pests can establish a habitat for themselves within your property while the construction is ongoing. Construction zones have waste like human food, wood, cardboard, wood, and other items. These items are enticing food sources for pests. On top of that, some creatures use these materials to make their homes.

Address Contaminated Construction Materials

Usually, home construction materials are left in the open. Hence, they are exposed to elements and can become rather damp. Some of them may even have insects on or within them. If you want to be sure that you do not sacrifice your home’s integrity, pest control is the answer.

Find Solutions to Disruption of Nearby Habitats

In general, new home construction will disrupt the nearby habitats near the property. For example, when the rodent population is disturbed, you can expect them to find a new home. Thus, you need pest control to ensure they do not relocate within your property. Setting traps or baits will help prevent and deter major infestation.

The Common Pests New Homes May Face

If you are curious what types of pests you may need to deal with in your new home, the most common culprits are the following creatures:

Mice

The mice population is often disturbed when they construct new homes. Keep in mind; they build new developments in areas that they recently cleared. Hence, the construction team disrupted the soil, grass, bushes, and trees, so the pests living there need a new place to live. It is a misconception to believe that a new home will not attract mice. In fact, you must be more vigilant when your home is new because the construction of your home may have encouraged the mice to relocate within your property.

Other Rodents

Apart from mice, other rodents like rats, beavers, gophers, and the like can take refuge in your home. Usually, contractors are in a rush to finish building homes. As a result, there are gaps and holes that these rodents can infiltrate. For example, your attached garage could have a gap between the sheetrock and foundation. You can also have holes in the inlaid bricks outside or around your home’s foundation. These gaps will serve as entry points, so seeking pest control to find these problems is vital.

Ants

When you spot one ant, it means thousands are in the vicinity as ants thrive in colonies. When they built your home, the existing ant mounds were most likely disturbed. As such, you must prevent ant infestations from establishing within your home.

Spiders

One or two spiders can help control other bugs like flies, moths, or roaches. But having tons of spiders building webs in your new home is unsightly. If you want to make sure your home is in pristine condition without any other creepy crawlies, seeking pest control is the answer.

Termites

It is important to keep these wood-eaters away from your new home. The US Environmental Protection Agency noted that termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage annually, with property owners forking out 2 billion dollars for treatment alone. Hence, before you move in, you must form a chemical barrier to protect your home from infestations. Make sure you treat the soil and slab. On top of that, go the extra mile to treat wooden doors, floors, cabinets, and other items.
Keep in mind, the key to keeping these pests away is prevention. Using pest control services in your new home will ensure that you keep invasion and infestation at bay. You must be vigilant in protecting your new space. As a new homeowner, taking a proactive approach to pest control assures that you do not deal with the frustration and aggravation of insects and rodents. After all, these creatures will not only damage your property, but they are a health hazard to you and your family.

The Best Pest Control Service in St. George

If you have a new home, finding the right team can make a world of difference. Our crew at Nature’s Gate Pest Control company will ensure your new property is free from harmful critters that cause damage. Preserve your investment with our eco-friendly services that do not harm the earth and your health.
Our specialists use green techniques that eliminate the root of the problem. We have been serving St. George, Utah so we know where to find entry points. With our keen attention to detail, we feel confident in keeping pests away from your home, new or old. Call us for a free consultation, so we can recommend preventive treatments to protect your property all year round.

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7 Ways to Keep Scorpions Out of Your House

Post author By nautres_gate_sk
Post date April 23, 2021

7 Ways to Keep Scorpions Out of Your House

Scorpions are a common pest in the southwest regions of the U.S. While most scorpions have a sting that is similar to that of a bee, there are two species located in the southwest region that are venomous to the point of being lethal. Even if the scorpions coming into your home aren’t as venomous, it’s always a good idea to treat your home either way.

Luckily, you don’t always need the help of professionals to keep scorpions out of your home. But preventing scorpions from coming into your home is something you can easily do on your own. Be sure to follow these seven steps to keep scorpions out of your house. Although if the situation does get out of hand, you may want to enlist professional help.

1. Seal Your House

One of the best ways to keep scorpions and other insects out of your home is by making sure your home is completely sealed. Now, this doesn’t just mean keeping your doors and windows shut. Any cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation, around windows and doors, and gaps in baseboards should be completely sealed off with caulk. This will help reduce the number of entry points scorpions can use. Make sure that you seal off all cracks and crevices and not just the larger ones. Even if you think a hole looks too small for scorpions to enter through, it needs to be sealed.

2. Create an Inhospitable Environment

No insect, no matter what type, will want to enter your home if it’s not a suitable environment for them. With that being said, make your home inhospitable to scorpions. This can be done by making sure there are no food, water, or shelter sources available to them inside of your house. Some great ways to do this are by keeping your home free of other insects, making sure you have no leaky pipes or water sitting out, and by cleaning up dirty dishes instead of leaving them in the sink overnight. Be sure to also keep your home clutter-free.

3. Eliminate Standing Water

Eliminating standing water goes hand-in-hand with creating an inhospitable environment. Pet water bowls, glasses of water, and any other sources of water that are sitting out will attract scorpions. At night, be sure to empty these water sources so that there is no water available for scorpions.

4. Inspect Small, Enclosed Dark Areas of Your Home

Scorpions thrive in small, enclosed, and dark places, such as cabinets, closets, and drawers. By inspecting these areas regularly, you can help prevent scorpions from hiding in them. Be sure to also clean them out of any clutter.

5. Use Insecticides

Insecticides are another great way to keep scorpions out of your home. You can do it on your own by purchasing residential insecticides that are meant specifically for scorpions. Scorpion insecticides should be used around the perimeter of your house and at all entrances. You can also purchase scorpion insecticide dust, which can be used to prevent scorpions from entering your home through any small cracks or crevices around windows, doors, electrical fittings, and any other entry points.

6. Clear Debris from Your Home’s Perimeter

Be sure to keep the perimeter of your home and your yard free from any debris or clutter. Any trash, loose firewood or lumber, and even piles of rocks can attract scorpions and offer great shelter for them. If you do need to keep firewood, it should be kept outside and at least 30 feet away from your house. Be sure to clean up any trash in your yard, as well as keep up with your yard. If you landscape regularly and keep grass, bushes, trees, and other shrubs trimmed short, it can also help prevent scorpions from entering your home. When you’re trimming trees, trim any branches that hang over your home, too.

7. Eliminate Scorpions’ Food Source

Scorpions, like any other insect, are attracted to food. By keeping your home free of other insects, you are eliminating the scorpions’ food source. If there is no food in your home, they won’t be as drawn to it. But you can’t just eliminate insects indoors. Scorpions feed on insects such as crickets, which can be found in many yards. If your yard has crickets, it will draw scorpions to your house. An easy way to eliminate any crickets in your yard is by keeping your outdoor lights off at night. Without lights, there will be fewer crickets and scorpions.

Enlist Professional Help

If you continue to have issues with scorpions after trying all seven of these ways to prevent them from entering your home, it might be time to consider enlisting professional help. If you live in the St. George area, Nature’s Gate Pest Control can help you eliminate an infestation or even a few scorpions. Our experienced and highly knowledgeable pest control technicians can not only help you eliminate your infestation, but also prepare your home for the future so that scorpions can’t enter again.

Tags diy, scorpions