Quick Answer: Termite damage is considered “too much” when it compromises the structural integrity of load-bearing members (sill plates, main support beams, headers) in more than two distinct areas of the home, or when the estimated repair cost exceeds 75% of the property’s market value. If you can push a screwdriver into your foundation sill plate like it’s a sponge,…
Quick Answer: Yes, professional pest control will get rid of cockroaches, but only if they use a combination of baits and Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) rather than just spraying liquid poisons. In late 2025, German cockroaches are highly resistant to standard chemicals. If your exterminator just sprays baseboards and leaves, they are ripping you off. I once had a client,…
Quick Answer: The only non-chemical protocol guaranteed to kill all bed bug life stages (eggs included) is heat: specifically, Whole-Room Heat Treatment (target $120^{\circ}F$ to $135^{\circ}F$ for several hours) for the structure, and High-Heat Clothes Drying ($120^{\circ}F$+ for 30 minutes minimum) or Specialized Heating Chambers for clothing, shoes, and sensitive electronics, because topical steam only offers a targeted, non-residual solution.…
Encountering a snake in your home is not just startling; it can pose safety risks, especially if the species is venomous. Understanding the factors that attract snakes to residential areas is crucial to mitigating the chances of an unwanted encounter. If you’ve spotted snakes around your property, this guide will equip you with strategies to keep them at bay and…
As temperatures rise with the approach of summer, you may start to notice familiar yellow and black insects buzzing around your yard. These bees play a crucial role in our environment by pollinating a vast array of plants, which is essential for both natural ecosystems and agricultural productivity. However, their presence can also trigger anxiety, as they have the potential…
The Creepy World of Centipedes: Understanding These Multilegged Pests Centipedes are often seen as one of the creepier household pests, largely due to their unsettling appearance, complete with numerous long legs that can evoke fear and discomfort in many people. But what is the real threat they pose? Below, we’ll delve deeper into some common concerns surrounding centipedes, shedding light…
It’s incredibly frustrating to reach for your favorite sweater, suit, or dress and discover that it has been ravaged by moths. These tiny insects, known for their stealthy behavior and insatiable appetites, love to lurk in your closet, putting your cherished garments at risk. Where Do Clothes Moths Come From and Why Are They So Intent on Ruining Your Wardrobe?…
Are Insects Smart? Examining the Intelligence of Our Smallest Neighbors When we think of intelligence, we often envision large brains paired with complex thoughts, a trait commonly associated with mammals and birds. However, insects, which typically have much smaller brains, challenge this notion by exhibiting remarkable behaviors and problem-solving skills that hint at a surprisingly high level of intelligence. While…
There’s a reason Spider-Man remains one of the most beloved superheroes: the abilities of spiders and insects often showcase extraordinary feats that humans can only dream of emulating. Among the most captivating phenomena in the natural world is how some insects, particularly those inhabiting aquatic environments, can appear to “walk” effortlessly across lakes, streams, and even puddles. While this may…
Picture this: You’ve just wrapped up a long evening of binge-watching your favorite show. As you stroll down the hall to brush your teeth before hitting the sack, you flick on the bathroom light. Your eyes start to adjust, and you are met with a horrifying sight: cockroaches scattering across your sink and bathtub. The evening’s comfort quickly morphs into…