No one wants to share their home with pests! That’s why we reached out to local pest experts, Getem Services in Norfolk, VA, to help you avoid pest infestations.
The Most Common Pests in Hampton Roads
While Virginia is home to a variety of common household pests such as spiders, silverfish, and centipedes, the most common pests you might encounter are these five:
Ants
Ants are prolific invaders that enter homes looking for food and shelter. While ants don’t pose a threat to humans directly, they can contaminate food sources with their presence and cause damage to property if left unchecked. Different species of ants respond differently to different treatments, making them especially difficult to combat once established inside the home.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs have become increasingly common in Hampton Roads, especially within the last decade. They feed exclusively on human blood and can quickly reproduce and spread throughout a home if they go unchecked. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to get rid of once they have taken up residence in a house, so it is important to take preventative measures to minimize their risk.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are resilient pests that can survive almost anywhere with access to food and water. Roaches prefer moist environments, like bathrooms or basements, and will not hesitate to spread out into living areas if given the chance. They contaminate food sources with their droppings and produce an unpleasant odor, making them both unsanitary and unwelcome guests in any home.
Rodents
The most common types of rodents in Hampton Roads are mice, rats, and squirrels. These small mammals often make their way into homes and garages through cracks and holes in walls and foundations. They can cause significant damage to property by chewing wires, gnawing on furniture, and contaminating food sources with their droppings.
Termites
Termites are a major problem across the state of Virginia and are considered one of the most dangerous pests, as they can cause significant structural damage to the homes that they infest. They feed mainly on wood, but they can also be found feeding on paper products like books or cardboard boxes. Contrary to popular belief, termites can live in any kind of residence, whether it is made up of brick or wood.
Signs of a Pest Infestation
There are several signs to look for in order to determine whether or not a pest infestation has occurred. Common signs of an infestation include:
Seeing live bugs, larvae, eggs, and other pests in your home.
Finding damage to wood, fabric, food packaging, and other materials due to the presence of pests.
Noticing a strange smell coming from the area where the pests are located.
Unusual droppings or tracks left by rodents.
Hearing scurrying noises as if something is running around in your walls or attic.
Discovering chewed holes in furniture, walls, and other areas of your house that weren't previously there.
Finding nests or webs in hard-to-reach places such as corners, closets, and behind appliances.
Seeing slugs, ants, or other pests around your home's exterior or near entryways.
If any of these signs are present in your home, it is important to take action immediately to prevent the infestation from spreading and causing further damage. The best course of action is to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection and treatment plan. This will ensure that the infestation is properly identified and eradicated with minimal disruption to your home and family.
Buying a home? Make sure you’ve gotten the proper inspections before sealing the deal.
How To Prevent Pests in Your Home
No matter where you live, pests can be a real problem. From ants to rodents, these unwelcome visitors can make your home less comfortable and even cause structural damage. Fortunately, there are ways to keep them out of your house without relying on harsh chemicals or expensive exterminators. Here are some tips for keeping pests away from your home:
Keep Food Storage Areas Clean
Pests will often come into the home in search of food, so it's important to store all food items in tightly sealed containers or in the refrigerator when not being used. Make sure to clean up any crumbs or spills immediately, as well as regularly sweep and mop floors and countertops.
Seal Up Entry Points
Look around your home for possible entry points where outdoor pests can gain access to the house. These include torn window screens, gaps in door frames, cracks or holes in walls or foundations, etc. Make sure to seal these up as soon as possible to prevent further invasions. Use caulk, weather stripping, or another type of sealant to block them off and prevent access.
Close Your Windows
If possible, close your windows when they are not in use to keep out any flying insects or other outdoor pests. You can also install screens over your windows and doors to give an extra level of protection while still allowing you to get fresh air circulation inside the house.
Maintain Your Yard
Many outdoor pests such as mosquitoes will be attracted to standing water and areas of long grass in your yard. Make sure to keep your lawn trimmed and free of debris, empty out rain gutters regularly, and fill in any areas with standing water.
Use Natural Repellents
Commercial repellents can contain harsh chemicals that may not be safe for use around children or pets. Try using natural pest-repellent alternatives such as cedar oil, citrus oils, peppermint oil, garlic, bay leaves, or citrus peels instead which can ward off insects and other pests.
Hire a Professional
If you are having trouble with persistent pests or if the infestation is too large for DIY methods to handle, it’s best to contact a professional exterminator who can provide the proper tools and expertise to get rid of any unwanted pests quickly and safely. They will also be able to give you advice on how to prevent any future pest problems.
The Bottom Line
While bugs and critters are a reality of Hampton Roads life, they don’t need to be found in your home. Keep an eye out for these most common pests in Virginia Beach and nearby cities, and don’t be afraid to involve a professional pest control company to help you out. With their help, you can trust that your home will stay free of pests all year round!