What Conditions Make Stores Prone To Pest Infestation?

 Monday, August 22nd 2022, 4:00 AM

Factors That Make Businesses Vulnerable To Pests

San Jose, United States - August 22, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Pests are a nightmare for homeowners and business owners. But the truth is humans also contribute to the spread of pests. While pests are unwelcome anywhere, businesses can incur financial losses from damage, consumer complaints, and loss of business. Businesses that handle food can even be shut down because of pest infestations. Commercial pest control is a vital service for businesses across the US.

Apart from customer dissatisfaction, complaints, and negative reviews, pest infestations of commercial buildings also have adverse effects on employees. According to a publication by IFMA (International Facility Management Association), around 42% of US businesses incurred a loss of at least one working day due to pest infestations. More than 25% of businesses lost at least five working days for the same reason. The presence of pests can also lead to a drop in staff morale, exposure to harmful pathogens, and risk of infections among employees. Once there is a pest problem, professional commercial pest control is needed. Businesses in need of pest control in the Bay Area can get services from Habitat Pest Control. With their experience and the use of eco-exempt products, Habitat Pest Control delivers commercial pest control services that are quick, effective, and safe for employees. In this article, the company shares information on conditions that promote pest infestation in stores.

Knowing what attracts pests will help business owners prevent them better. The following are things to look out for to keep a business free from pests.

1. Doors That Are Frequently Opened

Commercial buildings will need doors to be opened frequently to let customers in and out. Businesses can try to avoid keeping doors propped open and being open for longer than necessary. Door sweeps can be installed. The weather stripping around doors must be checked for cracks or damage that can be access points for pests. Air curtains can be used to keep flying insects out. A vestibule door entrance can also help to keep pests out.

2. Presence of Water and Moisture

Water is essential for the survival of living things, including pests. Any small amount of water can be an oasis that attracts pests. Pipes, drains, water dispensers, and appliances must all be checked for any problems that cause leaks, puddles, or moisture accumulation. Drains must be free of food debris that attract various pests. If possible screens can be used on drains. Spilled liquids must be mopped up, and the area cleaned and dried swiftly. The property must have proper drainage and outdoor drains must be maintained to prevent backing up of drainage. 

3. Carelessly Stored and Handled Food

Even in businesses that are not selling food, there is the presence of food brought in by customers and employees. Leftover food must be disposed of immediately. Any food products stored must be off the floor, on shelves or cupboards, at a suitable temperature, and in containers that keep them sealed and protected from nibbling. Food must never be left open or in unsealed packets that keep pests like flies and ants away.

4. Garbage

Most pests are scavengers, and garbage and trash area bounty for them. Trash or garbage must be emptied at regular intervals throughout the day. This must be done strictly without waiting for it to accumulate before doing so. Dumpsters must be kept away from the store entrance if possible. Trash receptacles must be closed and have well-fitting lids that keep pests out. The dumpster area must be kept clean and cleared regularly. 

5. Inadequate Cleaning

Good cleaning methods that are practiced regularly help keep pests away. Areas where food particles may be present, like break rooms, dining halls, kitchens, and food product aisles, must be swept or vacuumed several times a day regularly. Hidden areas behind furniture, cracks, crevices in the floor and walls, and countertop corners must all be cleaned meticulously. Regular vacuuming of carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture is also helpful.

6. Structural Problems

Since rodents and insects can get in through the tiniest holes and cracks, the structural integrity of a building is important to keep pests at bay. Gaps, cracks, or holes in floors, walls, ceilings, or the foundation must be sealed at once. Openings created for electrical wires or utility pipes must be inspected, and any gaps must be closed. 

7. Deliveries

Businesses get shipments and deliveries all the time. These are ideal vehicles for pests to get shipped right into a business. As far as possible, a dedicated area can be assigned to receive and retain deliveries for opening and inspection. Any signs of pests like ripped or torn packaging, droppings, larvae, or seeing actual pests must be monitored. Compromised shipments can be refused or removed as soon as possible. Cardboard, wood, and packaging materials must be broken down and discarded away from the store as soon as possible as these can harbor pests if kept for more time. 

8. Poorly Maintained Exteriors

Pests, especially rodents, can stay hidden in overgrown areas outside the building. Mowing grass, cutting overgrown tree branches, and keeping the area clear will prevent pests from living there.

All these things should be monitored, and action can be taken to prevent pests from entering a building. But even with all the care, pests can infest a business. In such cases, commercial pest control must be initiated immediately. Business owners with a pest problem can get commercial pest control services in the Bay Area from Habitat Pest Control. The company assures swift, same-day pest control service in the South Bay Area. Habitat Pest Control provides the best pest control with year-round advanced service to eliminate pests all the year. They will handle problems related to pest return for free. Habitat Pest Control can be contacted for a pest control quote by businesses in need of commercial pest control by dialing the number (408) 922-9898 or on their website. 

What Encourages Termites To Invade Property

 Monday, August 15th 2022, 4:00 AM

Conditions That Attract Termites

San Jose, United States - August 15, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Homes provide shelter and comfort to families. However, some unwelcome intruders can also make these homes their dwelling place. Any home or commercial building with wood used in its construction or for furniture is at risk of being attacked by termites. Termites feed on cellulose which is a constituent of wood. So they are destructive to property and affect the structural integrity of the furniture and building. 

Once invaded by any pest, including termites, they need to be removed as soon as possible to limit the harm they cause. Homeowners may contact a pest control company for effective termite extermination. In the Bay Area, the local leading pest control company is Habitat Pest Control. This company provides pest control solutions that are non-chemical and natural to home and business owners. Habitat Pest Control strives to take measures to protect the environment in all the work they undertake. This article by Habitat Control provides information on what brings termites into homes. This will help property owners to keep termites away.

Some Conditions That Attract Termites To Homes Are:

Moisture

Poor drainage

Mulch in gardens

Firewood and woodpiles

Stumps and dead trees on the property

Overhanging tree branches near the home

High Moisture Areas

Some places in homes are prone to moisture buildup. These are areas like air conditioning systems, laundry areas, bathrooms, cabinets near or below kitchen sinks, etc. It is vital to keep these areas clean and dry. They must be checked regularly for leaks or excess moisture retention. If signs of termite infestation are present, pest control must be done immediately.

Poor Drainage

Termites thrive in moist places. Clogged gutters and improper drainage can lead to damp zones. Insulation can also get moist. This must be avoided by clearing blocked drains, using downspout extenders that direct water away from the house, using gutter guards to prevent leaves and debris from causing blocks, etc.

Mulch

Homes with homeowners who are passionate about gardening will have mulch used in the garden. Mulch is ideal fodder for termites as it contains wood chips and retains moisture. Mulch must be stored carefully in an airtight way. Mulch used for plants must be kept at least 15 inches away from the foundation of the home to prevent a termite infestation.

Firewood and Woodpiles

Wood is the easiest way for termites to invade any property. Wood must be stored at a minimum distance of 20 feet from the house. It must be stored at a minimum height of 5 inches from the ground. A rack or arrangement that is not made of wood must be used to keep wood off the ground to limit the possibility of termites making their way into the wood. 

Dead Trees and Stumps

The stumps and dead trees on the property should be removed. These serve as homes for a colony of termites.

Tree Limbs Near The Home

Overhanging branches or tree limbs near homes must be trimmed. These increase the risk of roof damage and leaks which creates moist areas. They also can make it easy for termites to gain access to the house. Tree limbs can block light exposure which creates dark moist environments that are favorable for termites.

Termites may be an important part of the ecosystem. But for a clean and safe home that stays strong for long, termites are a problem. Termites can cause destruction that is expansive and swift. In the South Bay Area, Habitat Pest Control delivers prompt, same-day termite extermination service. This is a locally owned and operated company with a decade of experience and assures eco-friendly, safe, and effective pest control. Habitat Pest Control can be contacted on the number (408) 922-9898 or get in touch with their office in San Jose, California. 

What Rats Eat

 Tuesday, August 9th 2022, 4:00 AM

Knowing What Rats Eat To Limit Food Available For Them

San Jose, United States - August 9, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

The 2019 AHS (American Housing Survey) stated that of 124 million occupied housing units in the US, 14.8 million reported seeing rodents in the past 12 months. The CDC cautions that rodents can cause diseases directly or indirectly. They can cause diseases in humans through feces, urine, or saliva. They can also indirectly infect humans through ticks, mites, or fleas that feed on infected rodents. 

Rodents are unwelcome intruders bringing disease and damage. Keeping them away from the property is the best long-term solution. If there has been an opportunity for them to gain entry, a pest control company will help to get rid of them. Affected property owners can contact Habitat Pest Control for rodent control in the Bay Area, California. This company focuses on getting rid of pests while protecting the environment through integrated pest management. In this article, Habitat Pest Control shares information on what rats eat. It will help homeowners to ensure these food sources are inaccessible to rodents so that they are not attracted to the premises.

Outdoor Food That Attracts Rats

Homes that have a backyard have a lot of things that attract rodents. Rats are scavengers that eat a lot of things. Birdseed, fallen fruit, garden vegetables, and improperly cleaned outdoor grills are all enjoyable to rats. Compost and garbage are also easily accessible food sources for rats. Steps to secure compost heaps and garbage cans can be taken. Food with a strong smell like cheese, eggs, and fish must be disposed of in locations that are secure against rodents.

A trash can may be placed in an area where people and pets move around frequently. This is a deterrent, as rats are by nature sneaky animals. Bins must not be kept near walls or in corners that provide spaces to hide. Keeping food bowls for pets outdoors is a magnet for rats. Leaky faucets and containers that accumulate rainwater act as water sources that attract rats. When there is pleasant weather, homeowners can try to move around the home exteriors regularly. This acts as a deterrent to rodents.

Food That Attracts Rats Indoors

Once rats are spotted outside the home, they usually get indoors without much delay. Spaces like attics, basements, and crawl spaces are havens for rodents. They can settle and breed in these areas if undisturbed. Once they are indoors, rats may need a professional pest control company to eliminate them from home. But the homeowners can try their best to prevent rats from entering the home. 

Rats eat anything they find indoors; cereals, pulses, nuts, garbage, sweets, almost anything is edible for rats. Since they are agile climbers and scavengers rats can access food stored almost anywhere in a home. Dry goods like cereal, chips, and grains stored in bags that can be nibbled through are not spared once rats gain entry indoors. Any food left uneaten outside or fruits and nuts kept open are easy targets. Any pet food left out overnight or in bags is devoured by rodents. If garbage is left unattended and open, it is also a food source. 

Homeowners must store food in containers that can be closed and cannot be nibbled through. Leaky pipes and other water sources must be shut off. Garbage must be disposed of daily and any waste receptacles must be secured and closed to restrict rats. Common rodent access points like holes near cabinets, windows, appliance pipes, closets, or sinks must be blocked. Safe and effective rodent control measures can be taken by a pest control company. A pest control company may also be able to help rat-proof homes. 

      

Pest control is important to prevent diseases, protect the structural integrity of homes, and for cleanliness. Habitat Pest Control is a company that helps protect homes from pests in a manner that does not harm the environment. The company integrates the use of non-chemical and natural pest control solutions that are better for the environment and the health of clients using their services. For rodent control or other needs related to pest control in the Bay Area of California, Habitat Pest Control can be approached. Their phone number is 001 (408) 922-9898. 

How To Keep Pests Away From Warehouses, Images 23/8/22

 

Preventing Cockroach Infestation, Images 23/8/22

 

Eliminating Silverfish From Homes, Images 23/8/22

What Conditions Make Stores Prone To Pest Infestation?, Images 8/6/22

 

What Encourages Termites To Invade Property, Images 8/6/22

 

What Rats Eat, Images 8/6/22

 

Habitat Pest Control Shares Some Pest Control Advice for New Homeowners

 

Habitat Pest Control: What Pest Control Measures Should New Homeowners Follow?

San Jose, United States - July 27, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Pest Control Advice for New Homeowners

Moving into a new house is an exciting time for everyone. Most buyers are advised to conduct a complete pest inspection of the house during closing. In case a new homeowner has not followed this norm, pest control may become necessary right before or after moving into the new house. Habitat pest control, a pest control company in San Jose, California, shares some pest control tips with new homeowners in the article below.

 

Tip #1: Call a Pest Control Company

Whether you have moved into a new house recently or you are about to move in, it makes sense to call a pest control expert to thoroughly inspect the house for any pest problems and also share measures to prevent these problems. Every locality has its pest issues that a local pest control company can advise on.

 

Tip #2: Deep Clean Before Moving In

Buyers can request a deep cleaning service as a part of the closing of a home deal. If not, it can be arranged by calling a professional cleaning service. Homeowners who plan to undertake a DIY home deep cleaning project must clean the inside and outside surfaces as well as corners of all cabinets; areas under and behind appliances; stoves and kitchen drawers; garage and window wells; and all floors and walls. 

 

Tip #3: Seal Cracks and Openings

Homeowners can seal some cracks and openings in and around the house that may allow pests to slither in. But in case of extensive damage or openings, a professional pest control expert is needed. Homeowners can look for cracks and openings in areas such as the foundation; siding joints windows, and window wells; openings around pipes in the kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms; exterior pipes; exterior doors and windows, screened windows and doors.

Tip #4: Choose Effective Products

Purchase an insecticide spray depending upon the type of pest infestation. Read the packaging for safety precautions and application. Ensure that the house is closed and uninhabited after spraying to avoid any allergies. 

 

Tip #5: Use Traps

A swift way of eliminating pests, traps may include poison, sticky traps, or reusable snap traps. Pests such as ants and mice are best handled with traps. Again, homeowners must ensure that children or pets do not hurt themselves with these traps. 

 

Tip #6: Clean the outdoor areas 

The best place to start pest control is from the house exterior. Outdoor areas such as the porch, yards, garage, and swimming pool are places where insects and other pests start burrowing and nesting. If unchecked, these pests can start ruining these areas. Homeowners can prevent nesting by regularly cleaning these areas. Here are some cleaning tips for the outdoors:

 

• Weekly cleaning of the garage 
• Remove debris such as leaves and sticks around the foundation
• Clean gutters to discourage insects from building a nest
• Pest-proof plants such as citronella, marigolds, and catnip can be planted to keep pests away 
• Remove old mulch, store firewood and wood piles away from the house; store wood on raised platforms; and discard tree stumps from the yard to avoid termite infestation
• Clean and treat the swimming pools regularly
• Empty and wash the grill and grease trap after every use
• Avoid standing water to prevent mosquito breeding 

 

Tip #7: Schedule a Cleaning Routine 

Effective pest control is possible with a regular maintenance schedule. A home that is regularly deep cleaned and inspected for any new cracks/openings, accumulated debris, or nests will not be targeted by pests. But periodic inspection and maintenance of even the most minor issues are necessary for a pest-free home.

Why Habitat Pest Control?

Habitat Pest Control is one of the leading local pest control companies in the Bay Area. With its integrated use of non-chemical and natural pest control solutions for home and business owners, Habitat Pest Control eliminates pests while protecting the health and environment of the inhabitants. Here are some of its services:

 

• Residential pest control to eliminate pests of all kinds in homes 
• Commercial pest control that is customized for restaurants and offices 
• Integrated pest management that offers long-term prevention of pests with an ecosystem-based strategy

 

For eco-friendly, safe, and effective pest control methods with written, guaranteed results in San Jose, California, contact Habitat Pest Control at (408) 922-9898 or email info@habitatpest.com.

 

Habitat Pest Control Talks about Silverfish Infestation

Habitat Pest Control: All about Silverfish Infestation

San Jose, United States - July 22, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

How to Get Rid of Silverfish in Homes?

Silverfish are swift, nocturnal insects that are often found lounging in high-humidity areas such as bathrooms, garages, and cabinets. Mostly not harmful, these pests are still a nuisance in some ways. Habitat Pest Control, a pest control company in San Jose California, discusses all about silverfish in the article below.

 

What are silverfish?

Wingless, silver grayish insects, silverfish are tiny in size barely one-half of an inch with flat bodies. They are unlikely to spread any diseases but can contaminate food, ruin paper products, and stain clothing. 

 

What attracts silverfish?

1. Moisture

Silverfish love moisture. And they find the perfect environment in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, garages, and cabinets.

 

2. Warm, dark places

Silverfish are shy creatures and will be found scurrying around at night. They prefer dark hiding places such as attics and closets with temperatures between 70–90 degrees.

 

3. Carbohydrates and protein

These pests feed on sugar and starch present in paper products such as books and photographs. They are also attracted to the kitchen staples like flour and rolled oats. Protein such as dried beef and dead insects are also a part of their diet. This is how they contaminate food and spread pathogens. They can even be found feeding on soap, dust, glue, and clothing.

 

Silverfish Pest Control

1. Control Moisture

Leaky pipes and faucets offer an ideal environment for silverfish infestation. Mend them at the earliest. A dehumidifier or a ventilation fan are clever ways to control the humidity in damp areas. Additionally, prevent water pooling in gutters and downspouts to control the moisture levels. Grading the yard is another way to prevent water pooling around the foundation. 

 

2. Store Food Properly

All the foods such as flour, pasta, pet food, rolled oats as well as proteins must be stored properly to prevent contamination by silverfish. Airtight plastic containers can successfully prevent any silverfish intrusion. 

 

3. Close Openings

Cracks and openings must be sealed immediately to prevent silverfish from slithering inside. All the vulnerable points such as crevices under and behind baseboards, windows and door trims, and walls and floors where pipes pass must be inspected for any openings.

4. Vacuum Regularly

Carpets, floors, and upholstered furniture are the ideal hiding spots for silverfish. Vacuuming regularly can destroy nests and eliminate the hidden eggs of these pests. Emptying the vacuum bag outside is advised.

 

Although uncommon, silverfish can be a nuisance and damage food and documents in a home. Calling a professional such as Habitat pest Control is the best way to eliminate this pest and prevent its recurrence.

Why Habitat Pest Control?

Habitat Pest Control is one of the leading local pest control companies in the Bay Area. With its integrated use of non-chemical and natural pest control solutions for home and business owners, Habitat Pest Control eliminates pests while protecting the health and environment of the inhabitants. Here are some of its services:

 

• Residential pest control to eliminate pests of all kinds in homes 
• Commercial pest control that is customized for restaurants and offices 
• Integrated pest management that offers long-term prevention of pests with an ecosystem-based strategy

 

For eco-friendly, safe, and effective pest control methods with written guaranteed results in San Jose, California, contact Habitat Pest Control at (408) 922-9898 or email info@habitatpest.com.

 

Habitat Pest Control Highlights the Common Pest Control Mistakes Homeowners Make

 

Habitat Pest Control: Pest Control Mistakes Homeowners Must Avoid.

San Jose, United States - July 19, 2022 /Habitat Pest Control/

Pest Control Mistakes to Avoid

A pest infestation is not only an unpleasant experience but can lead to many health issues due to the contamination caused by the pests. Habitat Pest Control, a pest control company in San Jose California, discusses some of the pest control mistakes that homeowners must avoid to keep their homes clean and safe. 

 

#1 Not Being Proactive

The best way to keep pests away is to actively inspect the house for infestations and take measures to prevent them. However, most homeowners end up doing damage control instead of proactive prevention. It may seem like a lot of effort to take proactive measures but in the long run, it saves a lot of money and prevents a lot of damage.  

Regularly vacuuming, cleaning gutters and downspouts, dehumidifying damp areas, replacing cracked seals and sealing openings, and preventing water pooling are some of the steps homeowners must take regularly to deter pests. 

 

#2 Not Addressing the Problem

Pests will never leave if they aren’t made to leave. Many homeowners ignore the pest infestation in hopes that it will disappear by itself. Instead, the infestation becomes worse as pests nest and reproduce quickly, worsening the infestation. Therefore, a homeowner must take action at the first sign of a pest. 

 

#3 Not Eliminating the Source

A minor pest infestation can be handled by the homeowner with the help of traps and sprays. But in case of a serious infestation, removing the source is more important than removing the pest. When the homeowner focuses on removing the pest and not the source, the pests keep coming back. Only professional pest control companies can take care of a serious pest infestation by discovering the source and eliminating it to prevent a recurrence. 

#4 Using the Wrong Treatment

Pests scurrying around a home is extremely unpleasant and unsettling. Homeowners often panic and use ineffective ways of eliminating pests. These methods often found online may worsen the situation and may even be dangerous. Using excess pesticides or improper application, for instance, can be harmful to the health of the inhabitants. A professional pest control company, on the other hand, has the knowledge, equipment, and experience to handle a pest issue swiftly and safely. 

 

#5 Not Being Vigilant

Once the pest infestation has been handled, homeowners usually become complacent. To prevent a recurrence, homeowners must regularly inspect the areas where the infestation occurred in the past. Regular pest control maintenance and inspection by a professional can ensure that there are no vulnerabilities. 

 

Being mindful of the above-mentioned mistakes can help homeowners prevent pest infestation or its recurrence. Hiring a pest control company like Habitat Pest Control can help homeowners maintain their houses and keep the pests at bay.

Why Habitat Pest Control?

Habitat Pest Control is one of the leading local pest control companies in the Bay Area. With its integrated use of non-chemical and natural pest control solutions for home and business owners, Habitat Pest Control eliminates pests while protecting the health and environment of the inhabitants. Here are some of its services:

 

• Residential pest control to eliminate pests of all kinds in homes 
• Commercial pest control that is customized for restaurants and offices 
• Integrated pest management that offers long-term prevention of pests with an ecosystem-based strategy

 

For eco-friendly, safe, and effective pest control methods with written guaranteed results in San Jose, California, contact Habitat Pest Control at (408) 922-9898 or email info@habitatpest.com.