Most people don’t think about their attic until something is leaking down from the ceiling or an unwanted sound is rumbling through the house. It is best to be proactive about attic protection and common bugs found in homes so you do not end up making the call, “Help, I have bugs in the attic!”
WHY ATTICS ATTRACT COMMON HOUSEHOLD BUGS
Most pests want somewhere safe that:
- protects them from predators
- shields them from the elements and weather
- provides quick access to food and water
The above list is amplified by impregnated animals wishing to have a great nesting spot with a safe place for their young. Attics check all of the above criteria for attic bugs. While most attics do not have food stored in them, wiring, plumbing, and vent systems provide nice paths to follow to the goods.
TYPICAL HOUSEHOLD BUGS FOUND IN ATTICS
Every attic will have different bug potentialities. Not every common household bug will have an interest in the attic. The following are bugs frequently found in the attic:
- Asian ladybird beetles
- bat bugs
- carpenter ants
- carpenter bees
- cockroaches
- cluster flies
- moths
- silverfish
- springtails
- swallow bugs
- termites
- wasps
THE ROLE OF ATTIC SEALING IN PEST PREVENTION
Attics are meant to be able to be sealed in a way that keeps animals and moisture out while allowing the necessary airflow to release heat and protect the roof. Typical household bugs potential for attic access can be identified by inspecting roof lines for gaps or deteriorated materials. These areas indicate where both moisture and pests can be excluded from entry. In addition, ensure that all panels in the eaves are properly installed and secured to stop flying pests from finding their way inside for good attic sealing.
HOW TO INSPECT AND CLEAN YOUR ATTIC FOR BUGS
The number one item for attic inspections and treatment is safety. Most attics are not set up to allow for safe walking around. It is usually best to have a board installed that will go across the rafters to stop someone from stepping through the ceiling. Additionally, a hard hat is recommended to avoid having a nail run into your head.
With safety precautions in place, a simple flashlight and visual inspection will highlight nesting materials, tracks through the insulation, droppings, and other signs of pests. Additionally, inspect for discoloration or signs of water that has been or is present in the attic.
Finally, remove food sources and water sources for pests. If an animal has died in the attic, this could be a food source for pests. Alternatively, pests may create food stores in the attic. Removing food and water combined with blocking access will make the attic a secure place from pests.
EFFECTIVE ATTIC PEST REMOVAL AND EXTERMINATION METHODS
If pests have made their way into the attic, it is best to match the control technique with the pest for effective attic pest removal.
If there are bees or wasps, a bee suit and a nest removal tool will be important for effective pest elimination. Pest control maintenance around the outside will keep new wasps from finding their way inside.
If bat bugs are present, you will want to ensure the time of year is right to not leave bat pups unattended and install one way bat tubes to get the bats out which will solve the bat bug issue.
For termites, there will be a few options such as heat treatment, borate treatments, or bait packs. The best option will be based on access, extent of damage, and the type of termite present.
PROTECT YOUR HOME WITH ATTIC PEST CONTROL FROM ROVE
Many issues enter awareness from the attic and move down. The attic exterminators at Rove Pest Control know where those pests are targeting food and other resources to stop them in their tracks. Rove’s attics pest control service plans address common bugs found in homes and protect you from future concerns by targeting pests at their source. Protect your home today with Rove’s residential pest management.