Answers to Your Commercial Pest Control Questions

Will a certain type of mulch attract termites to my property?

Termites are attracted to cellulose and moisture.  Mulch contains cellulose and retains moisture, which makes it a highly conducive material for termite activity, regardless of the type of mulch.

When Do Termites Swarm in Texas?

Usually early spring when day temperatures reach 80 degrees or higher

What is the best way to get rid of and prevent bed bugs in hotels?

The best option for quick, efficient and complete removal of bed bugs is with thermal remediation (heat) – which quickly kills bed bugs at all stages of development.

Bed bug prevention can be hard, but making your staff aware of the issue and providing them with the training to identify the early signs of bed bugs is the best way to head off an infestation. Frequent inspections from a pest control provider will also allow you to catch a bed bug issue before it gets out of control (or before a guest finds an issue).

How can I prevent cockroaches in my restaurant?

The best practice in cockroach prevention for restaurants is sanitation control. This means cleaning up all food debris multiple times a day, inspecting new products prior to them being brought into the facility and always remembering to clean behind and under equipment – just because you can’t see the debris, doesn’t mean it’s not there.

How can I stop birds from nesting on our roofs and in our rafters?

Depending on the structure and laws, there are several ways to prevent birds from roosting and nesting – from noise and visual deterrents, to physical deterrents such as netting or spikes and even electrical strips on perching/roosting areas to scare (not kill) birds away – there are many options. There are also long-term population reduction options such as ovocide, which is basically birth control for pest birds.

How are bugs getting into my facility?

There are several common ways for insects to get into a building. Pests like the path of least resistance, so they frequently just walk or fly through open doors or windows, unsealed electrical conduits, air vents on roof, etc. They also have been known to stowaway on inbound products and are attracted to buildings due to improper lighting on the outside of the building.

Can pests really come in through drains?

Yes, several pests can come up through drains depending on your plumbing system and any damage that may be present.

Will my landscaping selections affect pests?

Landscaping can effect pest populations in many ways. Some plants and flowers are known insect attractants, and most plants and flowers provide sanctuary to pests. Most nurseries have charts to help consumers understand the common pests attracted to certain plants based on the region you live in. The moisture that collects in gardens and yards can attract pests, and even help them breed in the case of mosquitoes. Finally, some materials used in landscaping, such as mulch, can also play a role in the attraction of pests.

Why is my facility constantly attracting ants and flies?

Pests are looking for three things in your facility – food, shelter and water. Basic sanitation practices, employee behavioral modification (i.e. not leaving doors open) and awareness can all work together to prevent ants, flies and other pests. Make sure your staff follows a strict cleaning regiment, avoids propping doors and windows open, inspects inbound goods and keeps indoor and outdoor areas free of spills – this includes in the areas surrounding dumpsters.

Pests happen.

The best thing you can do is prepare and educate your staff to be proactive in handling pest issues. If you have additional questions, please contact our commercial pest experts to customize an action plan for your specific facility or for more information on our commercial pest control programs. Contact Holder’s today for more information.