Q&A

What is IPM?

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a process by which other factors than just the use of pesticides, are taken into consideration when dealing with a particular pest problem.  These may include repairs to the home in order to reduce or eliminate entry points of infestation and landscape changes to prevent insects from circumventing applications. Our technicians are thoroughly trained in IPM so that pesticide use is greatly reduced. 

 

Do I need to be out of the house when an application is being done, and if so for how long?

 

If the application is strictly outside there is no need for you to be out of the house.  However if treatment needs to be done inside you and any pets should plan to be out of the house for a minimum of 3 hours. Your technician will be able to give you further information on this.

 

I have an aquarium.  Is there any special concerns?

 

Fish are very susceptible to pesticides. Therefore, if it is necessary to treat inside the home we ask that you cover the aquarium with plastic wrap and turn the filter off for at least 6-8 hours.

 

I'm seeing flying ants.  Are these ants or termites?

 

All species of ants and termites produce "reproductives".  These are males and new queens that swarm out of the colony and go off to start new colonies.  The differences between ant reproduction and termite reproduction are an and with wings looks just like that, an ant with wings.  In other words, it has a distinct head, thorax and abdomen.  A termite with wings has a cigar shaped body made up of only the head and abdomen.  Also a termite's wings are twice as long as its body.

 

How long will it take before I can expect to see results from a treatment?

Usually, you may see immediate results after an application for insects, then a few weeks later see an increase in activity.  This is normal in that the insects are trying to get away from the treatment and their normal patterns are disrupted.  You should wait at least 30 days before any reapplication is done.  For rodent treatments, you should wait 2 weeks before any re-baiting is done.