Ants are a common nuisance for many Maryland homeowners because they can sting people, contaminate food, and damage wood. Once they’ve entered your home, they’re extremely hard to get rid of without a residential pest control expert – that’s why prevention is key!

These persistent and highly adaptable creatures can be a real headache, but don’t let them bug you (pun intended!).

Take a look at these 5 common ants in Maryland, and we’ll teach you some steps you can take to prevent them from entering your home:

Meet the 5 Most Common Types of Ants in Maryland

Here’s a quick guide to identifying and preventing some of the most common ant types in Maryland:

1. Acrobat Ants

You can easily recognize an acrobat ant – its unique, heart-shaped abdomen is a dead giveaway. These ants are small and tend to enter homes through cracks in the foundation and the small gaps around windows and doors.

When they enter your home, you might be unpleasantly surprised to find them in your food, contaminating it so that it is inedible. They also sting when threatened, so keep that in mind if you spot one.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent acrobat ants from invading your home:

• Use caulk to seal any openings around windows, doors, pipes, and utility entrances.
• Seal any cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.
• Avoid leaving food and/or dirty dishes out in your kitchen, and store pet food properly.

2. Carpenter Ants

If you’re trying to identify carpenter ants in or around your home, ask yourself these questions:

• Do the ants have wings?
• Do the ants have a constricted waist?
• Are the ants black, red, or a combination of those colors?
• Do the ants have a one-node waist?
• Did you find the ants near or inside of wood (especially water-damaged wood)?

If you answered yes to all of these questions, there is a good chance you’ve spotted carpenter ants. You may also have carpenter ants if you hear a rustling sound inside the wooden structures of your home or if you find wood shavings on your floor mixed in with dead ants.

These ants build their nests inside of wood, tunneling and removing the wood along the way. Once they enter your home, they can contaminate both human food and pet food.

Here are a few steps you can take to keep carpenter ants out of your home:

• Because carpenter ants need moisture to survive, you can keep them away by replacing water-damaged wood in or around your home. Also, check your gutters to make sure that they are properly draining water away from your home.
• If you have firewood, be sure to store it as far from your home as possible.
• Trim any trees and/or bushes so that they do not come into contact with the walls of your home.

3. Odorous House Ants

These ants are tiny, typically measuring anywhere from 2.4mm to 3.3mm in length. They can be most easily identified by their signature scent – crush one, and you’ll notice that it emits a rotten coconut smell.

Odorous house ants are often the small ants in the kitchen area – they have a sweet tooth, so don’t leave sugary food within their reach, or it’s likely that they will contaminate it. You can also find them around your pet’s food and in your bathroom.

Here are a few more tips for preventing an odorous house ant infestation in your home:

• Get rid of any standing water.
• These ants build nests in stacks of wood, so keep any firewood stored far from your home.
• Seal any cracks or openings near the bottom of your home’s foundation.
• Make sure that plants and tree branches are cut so that they don’t touch your home.

4. Pavement Ants

You guessed it – these ants typically build their nests in or under cracks in pavement! They can also be found inside the home in walls and under floors.

You might be surprised to learn that they aren’t common throughout the entire United States – they’re only present in the eastern half, so they’re definitely a problem here in Maryland.

To identify pavement ants, look for a light brown to black ant – it will have legs that are lighter in color than the rest of its body. They’re quite harmless and don’t bite, but they can still contaminate your food and the food preparation surfaces in your home.

Here’s how you can help prevent pavement ants from entering your home:

• Clean up quickly any time you spill your food, a beverage, or your pet’s food, and keep your kitchen as clean as possible.
• Keep all of your food stored in sealed containers.re
• Seal up your foundation and any cracks around windows/doors.

5. Thief Ants

You can identify these ants by their size and color. They’re one of the tiniest household ants in the world, usually measuring from 1.5mm to 2.2mm in length, and they range in color from yellowish to brown.

And yes – they really are thieves! In fact, they’re called thief ants because they steal larvae and pupae from neighboring ant colonies. They have another nasty habit too – they sometimes feed on dead rodents, meaning they’ll contaminate your food if they come into contact with it.

Here’s how to stop thief ants from invading your home:

• First, make sure you’ve correctly identified the ants. Thief ants look similar to Pharaoh ants, and if you can’t tell them apart, you should contact your favorite residential pest control provider for help.
• Keep your kitchen and home clean. Make sure you don’t let food scraps and dirty dishes sit out for long periods of time.
• Make sure that any vegetation is kept away from your home’s foundation.

What to Do When Ants Invade

As you can see, prevention steps for most types of ants include similar tactics, like sealing up cracks in your home’s foundation and keeping your kitchen area clean.

However, even following these steps, you could still experience an ant infestation. When that happens, you may feel the urge to reach for insect spray. While that may provide a temporary solution, you’ll be disappointed to find the ants returning again before long.

If you really want to prevent ants from returning to your home, get in touch with the ant control team at Brody Brothers Pest Control.

Not only do we provide preventative pest control services – we also have over 40 years of experience helping people get ants out of their homes, and we’d love to help you next!

If ants have already invaded your home, our professionals will destroy every member of the ant colony, providing you with a permanent solution. We only use the highest quality products and proven treatments, and our solutions are safe for your home.

Ready to get rid of your ant problem for good? We offer a free inspection to assess your situation and develop a customized plan that works for you. Contact us today and experience the Brody Brothers’ difference!

Remember, you’re not alone in the fight against ants! We’re here to help you enjoy a pest-free Maryland home.

The post 5 Common Types of Ants in Maryland and How to Keep Them Out of Your Home appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

Ants are common insects that are found all throughout the United States, including here in Baltimore. Seeing a stray ant might make you wonder about a possible ant infestation. Although small, ants can cause a lot of damage to your home and property.

As a professional pest control company, we have seen our fair share of ant infestations in Baltimore. This is what you need to know and how to handle an infestation.

What Types of Ants Are in Maryland?

Did you know that there are more than 12,000 species of ants worldwide? Luckily, you won’t find all of these ants in Maryland.

There are 5 common types of ants in Maryland:

1. Acrobat ants: This is a heart-shaped ant that comes into your home through cracks. They can also enter through gaps around windows and doors. You might find them in your kitchen and will sting when threatened.
2. Carpenter ants: These are black and red ants with wings and found around wood. They seek out moist wood to chew through and build nests.
3. Odorous house ants: These are tiny and smell of rotten coconut when crushed. They love sugary food and will nest in stacks of firewood.
4. Pavement ants: These tiny ants are common in the eastern portion of the United States. They are light brown to black and don’t bite. They nest inside of pavement cracks or in your walls and floors.
5. Thief ants: These are one of the tiniest house ants in the world. They feed on dead rodents and will contaminate your food.

Now that you know the common ants of Maryland, let’s talk about the problems they cause.

What Problems Do Ants Cause?

Ants are tiny and appear harmless. However, there are some major potential issues you can find with an infestation.

• Nuisance: Imagine scrolling on your phone while sitting on your couch. You feel a tickle on your arm and look down. You find an ant crawling up your arm, and you instantly smack it away. This is one of the many annoying nuisances that ants bring inside the home.
• Food contamination: The probability of food contamination can vary depending on ant species. For example, odorous house ants will nest inside a pantry in your kitchen. These ants bring bacteria and can spread disease. Keep in mind that this species of ant feeds on dead insects and animals. The last thing you want is an odorous house ant near your food. 
• Property damage: Ants can also cause property damage that is costly to repair. Certain species of ants will chew their way through wood, such as old wood siding, decks, and fences. Unlike termites, they do not eat the wood but they use it to create nests and lay eggs. You’ll find signs of this if you discover a small and smooth hole inside the wood.

An ant infestation is quite a headache. But what exactly is considered an ant infestation?

What is Considered an Ant Infestation?

Finding one or two ants isn’t necessarily a cause for concern. However, it can be a hint that an ant infestation is happening in your yard or home.

When it comes to a full-blown ant infestation in Baltimore, you’ll find a large number of live ants within a small proximity. Unfortunately, the infestation can happen in the interior or exterior of your home.

If the ant infestation is outside of your home, you might locate it in areas that contain rotted wood. If someone dropped food outside and left it in the yard, ants can come in hoards.

For example, carpenter ants live in highly organized colonies. They have a queen and hundreds to thousands of worker ants. They love sweets, fats, and proteins. If you drop half an apple and leave it for squirrels, ants might come to feast on it instead.

If you discover an ant infestation, don’t panic. Professional pest control companies such as Brody Brothers can effectively remove the ants and their accompanying woes.

What Causes an Ant Infestation?

If you’re facing an ant infestation, it’s helpful to know the cause behind it.

In most cases, ants are attracted to a plentiful food source, such as:

• Sugary residues from spilled soda, fruit juice, or syrups
• Spilled food, food particles, or water/food residues
• Pet foods
• Open or insecure trash containers

To take advantage of the food source, the ants must first gain entry to your home. If your home isn’t completely sealed, it can lead to an infestation on the inside.

Remember that the food isn’t necessarily going to come from your kitchen. Ants can also find food that was left outside, leading to an infestation.

How to Handle an Ant Infestation

There are several approaches to handling ant infestations in Baltimore. However, know that controlling an ant infestation isn’t always a quick and simple fix.

• Sealing holes and cracks in the exterior: The entry can be done through small cracks in the foundation or siding, poorly-sealed doors, holes drilled for pipes, or any other small opening. Try caulking around gaps within the window and door frame.
• Removing leaves and debris from around the building: Neglecting that pile of old leaves and debris in your yard? It might be a nice and quiet nest for an ant colony.
• Cleaning the kitchen and dining room often: Make sure you sweep the floors often to ensure all crumbs are picked up. Wipe off the countertops each day for crumb removal. Furthermore, make sure your pantry is cleaned out and all food is sealed inside.
• Cleaning food spills quickly: If you spill food and drink, make sure you quickly clean it up. This is especially true for young children who are notorious for leaving food crumbs from snacks around the living room or kitchen.
• Keeping garbage and pet food containers sealed: Keep garbage containers tightly closed off. Consider removing pet food from its original container and put it in a large, air-tight Tupperware bin.

Taking these steps will eliminate the source of food for the ants, which can ultimately help control the infestation.

Make Your Own DIY Ant Repellent

Ants leave pheromone trails that attract other ants along with them. In the early stages of a possible infestation, you can make the following solution. This is best used when you find a small number of ants.

This is a very easy DIY ant repellent solution to make at home. All you need is dish soap, water, and a small spray bottle.

This solution kills the ants and cleans the surrounding area, which rids of the pheromones and scent trail. 

Antsy to Remove Those Ants? Call Brody Brothers

If you do discover an ant problem, it is not advisable to treat it yourself, as many consumer products can actually make the problem worse. If you have an ant problem in Baltimore or Montgomery County, Maryland or a surrounding area, contact the team at Brody Brothers today!

The post How to Get Rid of an Ant Infestation appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

It’s a valid question, but it’s a very difficult one to answer in a straight manner. Unfortunately, it all depends on the type of infestation you experienced and the severity of it to determine how long it will take for pest control to work.

You did the right thing by calling a trained and licensed exterminator to perform the pest control, though. This guarantees an effective and quick solution so you can take control of your home again without dangerous bugs or critters crawling around.

In this article, we’ll discuss what you can expect during a pest control treatment and how long it takes to work for the most common infestations in the Chevy Chase, MD area.

What to Expect from a Pest Control Company

Once you have determined there is an unwanted infestation in your home, you may wonder what you can expect after calling an exterminator.

Typically, they will send a technician to your home to inspect the infestation and find the source of the problem. Sometimes they can treat the problem the same day.

However, if the infestation is larger than expected or there are obstacles to overcome, they may need to schedule another date to bring the right equipment and materials to perform the extermination.

Before your pest control expert begins the treatment, they should give a thorough explanation as to what they plan to do. You’ll want to choose a pest control company, like Brody Brothers Pest Control, that only uses safe and effective methods rather than harmful and risky chemicals. 

What Happens During Bug Extermination?

In some instances, you may have to leave your home completely for a few days if it needs to be fumigated. This is often a method of extermination used to get rid of termites that pose great dangers to the structure of your home.

There may be a situation where you have to block off a room for a day or two for the pest control treatment to work.

Some insects require a simple nest or hive removals, such as bees and wasps. Once the source of the infestation is removed, you can expect the insects to slowly disappear. 

When you choose Brody Brothers Pest Control as your exterminator, you can expect the utmost professionalism and safe pest control methods to protect you and your family.

When Will I See Pest Control Results?

So, how long does it take for pest control to work? As we mentioned before, it all depends on the insect and the infestation.

For example, a german cockroach infestation may take one to two weeks to completely exterminate. While the exterminator will set down the poison, it will take some time for the entire colony to disappear from your home.

However, if you’re dealing with bed bugs, it may take just a couple of hours to get rid of them if they are only affecting your mattress.

When the infestation is complicated and requires the extermination of many pests, it can take a couple of weeks to be fully effective.

What to Do After Pest Control Treatment

During the time that you’re waiting for the pest control treatment to take its full effect, it’s important to keep your home clean and free of clutter. Be conscious of crumbs left on the counter or papers and cardboard boxes piling up.

Also, be aware of sitting water, as this can reattract insects like mosquitoes. Check for leaking faucets and pipes and fix any issues that may arise.

Is It Worth Hiring a Professional Exterminator?

Absolutely!

If you’re tired of seeing unwanted, dirty pests roaming freely around your home or yard and want a fast and safe solution, a professional pest control company is your solution.

While you may consider DIY pest control methods, they are largely ineffective and do not get the root of the problem. They can also pose extreme dangers to your family and pets if not used properly.

Hiring a professional exterminator in Chevy Chase, MD, guarantees high-quality treatment with high-grade chemicals and methods along with safety measures and compliance to keep you and your family healthy and safe.

How to Prevent Future Infestations

The key to a great pest control company is the prevention methods they take to ensure your home is safe from infestations throughout the year.

As part of our Home Protection Plan, Brody Brothers Pest Control offers routine services to prevent potential infestations and exterminate any critters that may somehow bypass our prevention methods.

With four inspections per year and free extermination services, you can count on having a home free from unwanted pests and insects. We’ll scout for potential areas in your home where pests can crawl through and lay down treatments to keep them away.

With our permanent pest solution, you won’t ever have to worry about how long pest control takes to work again!

Protect Your Home and Family from Pests in Maryland

Bugs and rodents that enter your home can pose great health risks to you, your family, and your pets and could cause damage to the structure of your home.

If you suspect you have an infestation and require pest control, give Brody Brothers Pest Control a call for a free pest control inspection.

With over 30 years of experience serving Baltimore area residences and exterminating unwanted pests, we guarantee efficient, safe, and effective pest control services using the most recent extermination methods and technology.

Schedule your free consultation and begin protecting your home and family from pests today!

The post How Long Does Pest Control Take to Work? appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

Unfortunately, by the time you realize your home has been invaded by these unwanted and potentially dangerous guests, it might already be too late to avoid a pest infestation. 

What can you do to prevent rats, ants, flies, cockroaches, and other creepy crawlies from entering your home in the first place? 

The answer is quarterly pest control service in the Baltimore area from Brody Brothers Pest Control. 

Dangers of Pest Infestations

Aside from having to witness a monstrous insect or hairy rodent crawling through your home, infestations can cause danger to you, your family members, and your home’s structure.

For example, rats and mice can carry multiple harmful diseases that could have long-lasting health effects. Or, if there is a wasp nest on your property, you could potentially deal with a painful sting, or worse a swarm, while trying to enjoy the summer weather in your Baltimore area backyard.

In the case of termites, you’ll have to worry about the integrity of your home. These insects may be tiny, but they sure are mighty. Their little jaws can cause serious damage to the structure of your most valuable financial asset.

Common Pest Infestations in the Baltimore Area

Maryland’s landscape is a mixture of metropolitan cities, wooded forests, and large open fields. All three of these settings create perfect opportunities for critters to find their way into your Owings Mills home year-round.

Just a few of the most common pests Maryland residents must watch for include:

• Bees and Wasps
• Rodents
• Ants
• Mosquitos and Ticks
• Termites

From simply causing a disturbance to your routine to posing potentially harmful situations to you and your family, you don’t want these pests to invade your beloved home. 

Benefits of Quarterly Pest Control Services

Now that you’re thinking about the dangers and anxiety of having a pest control issue in your home, you’re probably wondering what the best solution is to prevent bug infestations from posing a health risk to your family. 

The Home Protection Plan from Brody Brothers Pest Control in Owings Mills, MD, is your worry-free and affordable year-round pest control solution. 

1. Prevention Methods

The first and most important benefit of quarterly pest control service from Brody Brothers Pest Control is to prevent infestations from happening in your home.

Our prevention methods include inspecting your home for potential entry points and resolving any issues that might encourage pests to enter your home. Our expert pest control technicians will closely inspect your property to identify any existing pest control problems and take care of them using powerful, effective, and environmentally-friendly methods. 

2. Catch Infestations Early

Those little critters can sometimes get by even the most advanced pest prevention methods. Fortunately, with quarterly pest control, we will catch these issues early – most likely before you even notice you have one.

When caught early, it takes much less time and effort to deal with any sort of bug or rodent problem. So, you can save yourself the headache of dealing with a full-blown infestation.

3. Year-Round Inspections

There are certain times of the year that specific insects and critters tend to invite themselves into residential homes in the Baltimore area. When you have a quarterly pest control service, you can rest assured that your home wards off even the most ambitious pests at that time of the year.

Our trained pest control technicians are aware of what pests are more likely to come into your home during specific seasons. Therefore, we already know the necessary precautions to take to prevent them from invading your living space.

4. Free Extermination Services

If on the rare occasion you do have an infestation problem despite our quarterly pest control services, you’ll have free extermination services to correct the problem.

Avoid DIY pest control at home and let the professionals handle it. Simply give us a call (410-653-2121) and schedule a time for us to solve the issue.

From ants to spiders to rodents to wasps, we will take care of any pests that may have slipped through our prevention methods. Using the latest technology and safest chemicals, you can say good riddance to these dangerous, unwanted guests.

5. Peace of Mind

Simply knowing that your home and family are being protected by a professional extermination company in Owings Mills, MD, with expert pest control technicians will give you peace of mind.

When it comes to protecting your family and your home, it’s important to get ahead of the problem. Once you notice critters and bugs in your home, it’s too late. The damage may already be done!

The last thing you want to think or worry about in your busy life is bug infestations in your home. With quarterly pest control services, it’s one less thing to think about.

Award-Winning Pest Control Services in Owings Mills, MD

Are you ready to get ahead of your infestation issues and work with Maryland’s top-rated and most trusted exterminators?

Brody Brothers Pest Control has served the area for over three decades and has helped hundreds of families exterminate harmful insects and critters. Our quarterly pest control service is one of the most popular and beneficial services that we offer.

You can have ultimate peace of mind knowing our professional pest control technicians are taking care of the problem before you even know it’s there. 

Learn more about our Home Protection Plan quarterly pest control service to see if it’s right for you.

The post 5 Awesome Benefits of Quarterly Pest Control in Owings Mills, MD appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

Now, your first thoughts are probably something along the lines of not wanting to spend too much money or wait around for a technician to show up. Fortunately, with Brody Brothers Pest Control, you don’t have to. We show up on time and offer great value and service to our customers. 

Before we get to your all-in-one solution to pest control in the Rockville, MD area, let’s take a deep dive into why you should avoid relying on DIY pest control solutions. 

Why DIY Pest Control Doesn’t Work

Before heading off to your local hardware store in search of DIY pest control products, it’s important to consider some important reasons why this isn’t always the best option.

1. You Likely Won’t Solve the Problem

Many of the retail sprays, poisons, and traps you can get at the store merely put a temporary bandage on a larger pest control problem. While they may get rid of the critters you see at the moment, it doesn’t guarantee they won’t come back in more significant numbers.

It’s no fun to repeatedly “fix” the same pest problem over and over. If you’re searching for a long-lasting solution, you’ll need more than DIY pest control products.

2. You’re Dealing with Hazardous Chemicals

If you aren’t setting traps (and then having to deal with the results yourself), you’re most likely spraying strong and hazardous chemicals around that will only temporarily get rid of pests in and around your home. This isn’t always safe for your family. 

The EPA published a study showing the impact of using pesticides on the air quality when used indoors. You could breathe in or ingest dangerous chemicals if you do not use the right substance or methods.

3. Dangerous Accidents

Now that we’ve discussed the harmful chemicals that are found in these DIY pest control products, we have to talk about the reality of dangerous accidents.

When you are not sure how to use a product or handle insect extermination properly, you expose yourself to the risk of an accident or getting hurt.

It isn’t just the product you have to beware of, though. It’s the pests themselves, sometimes.

For example, if you’re trying to get rid of a wasp or yellow jacket nest on your own there’s a possibility you could get stung or chased by a swarm. If this is the case, we highly recommend you look at our article about what to do when a wasp chases you. 

4. Risk of Using the Wrong Product

If this is your first experience with an infestation, you may find yourself standing in a store aisle staring at shelves of different products, all claiming to do the same thing. You read the boxes and hold two products in your hands, comparing them.

Unfortunately, since you do not have the expertise and training of a professional exterminator, you aren’t sure what is truly the best product. You’re at the hands of a product’s advertising right now!

If you use the wrong product, you could risk harm to yourself or your family, or it may not be effective in solving the problem at all. Therefore, you’ll find yourself back at the store searching for yet another solution.

5. Leaving the Root Problem Untreated

The issue with using DIY pest control is the root of the problem is often left untreated. These products and methods will likely only take care of the pest problems you can see. Lingering issues can still be lurking in your walls, attic, or underneath your house.  

Professional pest control services can identify and get to the underlying causes of your pest control problem to fix the issue and prevent it from happening again. 

6. Spending More Time and Money

One of the most common reasons people don’t want to call a professional exterminator is because they are afraid to spend a lot of money. But what if we told you that DIY pest control could actually cost you more in the long run?

Imagine buying products every few months or so to temporarily solve your problem. Add in the time you spend driving back and forth to the store, researching products and solutions, and the time it takes to apply the pesticide (and hope it works) – it’s quite a lot of time, money, and energy spent.

7. Potential Harm to Family, Pets, and the Environment

We’ve discussed how DIY pest control products contain harmful chemicals and the possibility of personal injury, but there is a great risk of harming your family, pets, and the environment.

If the product is not administered correctly or stored properly, you could be putting your family in danger. Another study (referenced in the EPA study link above) by the American Association of Poison Control Centers reported that 79,000 children were involved in common household pesticide poisonings or exposures.

Keep Your Family Safe With Brody Brothers Pest Control

To ensure the safety of yourself and your family and to get effective extermination, you’ll want to call Brody Brothers Pest Control. We’ve served Rockville, MD, and the surrounding area for almost three decades, keeping residents and their homes safe from pests. 

With our environmentally safe and effective pest control solutions, you can rest assured your family and home are protected. We also prioritize customer satisfaction, which is why our technicians are prompt and on time for appointments.

But why not prevent a pest control problem before it even starts? Learn more about our Home Protection Plan with routine inspections and seasonal pest control treatments.

The post 7 Reasons DIY Pest Control Can Be a Bad Idea and What to Do Instead appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

You may not think there’s a difference; an ant is just an ant, right? Wrong!

Some ants are only found outside, while others are only found indoors. Plus, there are different methods on how to get rid of them.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to deal with both indoor and outdoor ants and how to prevent them from infesting your property in the future.

The Only Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Ants

There is only one significant difference between indoor and outdoor ants – location.

While some ants may prefer to be in your home while others enjoy the outdoors, they’re essentially the same. However, the location of your ants will determine how you get rid of them.

If your ants are inside the house, you’ll want to use safe chemicals and sprays, especially if you have children and pets around. For outdoor ants, you can use harsher chemicals.

Prevention methods also vary depending on whether you’ve seen them indoors or outdoors.

There really isn’t a difference between indoor and outdoor ants, though. The only difference is the location and how to get rid of them.

Types of Ants

There are over 12,000 different types of ants in the world. That’s quite a lot of species to be on the lookout for. It’s important to identify which type of ant you’re dealing with when you notice an infestation in your house or on your property. This will help you decide how to handle them.

Fortunately, there are only about five different ant species you need to look for in Pasadena and the Greater Baltimore area.

Acrobat Ants

The acrobat ant is known to scurry around kitchens and live in small spaces like cracks in the walls, floors, and counters. When threatened, they will sting you.

You can identify this type of ant by their heart-shaped light brown bodies.

Odorous House Ants

If you think stinkbugs are a problem, just wait until you come in contact with an odorous house ant colony. When smushed, they release a foul odor comparable to rotten coconuts.

This species particularly enjoys sugary foods and likes to live in piles of firewood.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are red and black colored and have wings to fly. They usually create their nests in moist wood. So, if you have a pile of wood lying around or leaks in the house, you can expect a colony of carpenter ants to arrive fairly quickly.

Pavement Ants

Pavement ants are tiny in size compared to other species. As their name implies, they prefer to live in pavement cracks. Their colors range from light brown to black and can be particularly pesky.

Thief Ants

These ants are some of the tiniest ants in the world. You may not notice them in your home for weeks; they’re that tiny. However, they do have a habit of contaminating your food. This is particularly dangerous because they feed on dead rodents, which carry harmful diseases.

Prevent Indoor Ant Infestations

Nobody wants to deal with an indoor ant infestation, so it’s essential to take precautions to prevent them from entering your home. There are quite a few easy ways you can do this. The primary prevention tip to take away from this article is to simply keep your home clean.

Don’t Leave Food Out

Ants love to munch on your leftover food sitting on the counters or crumbs left on the floor. One of the most critical prevention tips is to make sure food is sealed in containers and cleaned up if spilled.

The less food left out, the lower the risk of attracting ants into your home.

Seal Cracks and Openings

We’ve already determined that ants like to build their nests in tight spaces like cracks. To keep indoor ants from infesting your home, seal cracks in the floor, windows, and doorways. This can be done with caulking materials.

Use Garbage Cans with Lids

Garbage cans with lids will also prevent ants from entering your home. Since they can’t reach the food and moisture inside, they’ll be deterred and find food elsewhere.

A closed garbage can goes for both indoor and outdoor ant prevention. All trash cans that may have food in them should be sealed shut.

Prevent Outdoor Ant Infestations

An outdoor ant infestation may not be as noticeable as an indoor one, but you’ll still want to take preventative measures. If ants start gathering and colonizing close to your Pasadena home outdoors, it’s only a matter of time until they’re inside.

Here are some practical prevention tips to keep outdoor ants from infesting your yard.

Trim Back Trees and Bushes

If there’s a tree with branches near a window of your house, you’ll want to trim it back a bit. Ants can easily crawl from the tree to the window and through any cracks.

The same goes for bushes. Keep them away from your home, and you shouldn’t have issues.

Get Rid of Leaf Piles

Another fact we’ve established about ants is that they like to colonize in moist places. If you have a pile of leaves raked up and sitting in your yard, it’s an invitation for ants to come and make it home.

After raking those autumn leaves, make sure to dispose of them quickly and adequately.

Grow Ant Repelling Plants

Nature is a beautiful thing. There are a handful of plants that actually repel ants. These plants include peppermint, spearmint, sage, and catnip.

Simply grow them along your property and feel better knowing ants aren’t likely to infest your yard.

Managing Indoor Ant Infestations

If your prevention tips don’t work as expected and you have an indoor ant infestation, you can still do some things to get rid of them.

First, you’ll want to prepare your home. This means putting away any food that may have been left out, cleaning the areas thoroughly, and getting rid of anything else that may attract ants.

Next, you’ll have to decide which extermination method is suitable for your situation. You can use ant sprays, baits, or simply vacuuming them up with some cornstarch.

It’s important to do your research about the products you want to use. Avoid using sprays and harsh chemicals near sinks, cabinets, and other places where you place food.

Managing Outdoor Ant Infestations

Just like with indoor ants, you should prepare your yard to get rid of outdoor ants. This means getting rid of things that attract ants, such as woodpiles, leaf piles, and anywhere that collects moisture.

With an outdoor ant infestation, you can use harsher chemicals and sprays to eliminate the ants. Extermination sprays and repellents are widely available. Ant baits also work well to get rid of an outdoor ant problem.

An important note to mention when managing ant infestations is to find the colony. If you simply get rid of the ants you see, more and more may come. You have to go right to the source to fully solve your problem.

Don’t Get Antsy, Call Brody Brothers Pest Control

Some ant infestations call for a professional exterminator to come in and take care of the problem. Brody Brothers Pest Control is Pasadena’s leading pest control service.

We take pride in the safety and effectiveness of our extermination treatments. You’ll have an ant-free home in almost no time at all when you let us handle the situation.

Call us for a free estimate today!

The post The Major Difference Between Indoor and Outdoor Ant Infestations appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

So, why would you hire a professional?

It’s a fair question to ask. And the answer that comes to mind might be because you want to save money. You may also be relying on information you found online if the problem pertains to getting rid of the mouse in your house.

If you’re on the fence between DIY and professional pest control, these are the key considerations to keep in mind.

Pest Professionals Can Identify and Remove Many Types of Pests

There are many types of critters that can invade a home or yard. People often try to remove these unwanted guests on their own with varying levels of success. A few of the most common pests that homeowners encounter include:

• Ants: acrobat ants, thief cants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, odorous ants
• Rodents: house mouse, deer mice, field mice, Norway rats
• Snakes: garden snakes, rat snacks, timber rattlesnakes
• Stinging pests: hornets, wasps, yellow jackets, cicada killer wasps
• Spiders: black widow, wolf spider, house spider, cellda spiders
• Flies, gnats, and moths
• Mosquitos, bedbugs and fleas
• Cockroaches
• Beetles and weevils

Such a wide range of pests require different approaches for successful removal or extermination. Turning to the wrong technique can backfire and end up in an uphill battle, leaving you with never-ending infestations.

A professional pest control company has specific guidelines for handling different species. Not only are we able to remove infestations, we can keep them from returning.

Professionals Protect You from Wasting Time and Money

There are over-the-counter pest control products that offer a band aid approach. You’ll sprinkle some powder or spray liquid hoping to make an infestation go away. Then you cross your fingers and wait.

It doesn’t take long to learn if the product is effective. Some products promise nearly instant results. Others may take days to work.

One of the downfalls of DIY pest control is that it’s a waste of time if the product doesn’t work. Meanwhile, the infestation can grow larger.

The other downfall is wasting money on poorly-performing or ineffective products.

Not surprisingly, there are options for DIY pest control that are a waste of both time and money. One of those is the ultrasonic pest repellant, which is only effective for specific species. This product showed some results for crickets, but did not work on other insects such as cockroaches.

Reading through Consumer Affairs will show some of the best and worst DIY pest repellents for your home. Riddex Plus Pest Repellent is one of the worst-rated with consumers claiming problems such as serious medical issues.

When choosing professional pest control company, you can be assured the job is done right the first time around. Even if the cost of professional pest control is more than a bottle of repellent spray, you can’t put a price on your peace of mind.

Pest Professionals Understand Proper Usage of Repellents and Chemicals

The United States Environmental Protection Agency promotes safe usage for pest control. These are recommended do’s and don’ts to follow when attempting your own pest control method:

Understanding Proper Disposal of Chemicals

Once you are finished with your choice of repellant, there is a right and wrong way to approach disposal. It’s important to read the label for each item and learn the protocol for proper disposal.

Keeping unwanted pesticides around the house can yield serious consequences. This is especially true if you have kids or pets.

When in doubt, you can reach out to a local hazardous waste collection company for guidance.

Use as Intended

One example of incorrect usage is spraying outdoor chemicals inside the home. Chemicals intended for outdoors will linger longer inside your home. This increases the chance of omitting toxic fumes that are harmful to yourself, kids, and pets.

Another usage example is applying the correct amount of repellent. Using twice as much won’t necessarily yield better results. Not only is it a waste, but it can be harmful to your family.

It’s also a bad idea to transfer pesticides to other containers. It must be stored in the original container and only mix as much as you need for one application.

Furthermore, never try to use an original pesticide container for another purpose. No matter how well you try to wash it out, there can always be remnants of pesticide left behind.

So, is pest control really necessary? Many times, yes. This is especially true if you don’t want to remember all the small details about pest control safety and usage.

Using chemicals for pest extermination is always a risk. It’s best to leave this process in the hands of a pest removal company.

When is Pest Control Really Necessary?

There is a lot to know about pest control. As Baltimore’s best pest exterminator since 1984, there are many reasons why pest control is really necessary. Here are just a few to consider:

You Don’t Know the Cause or Source of the Infestation

Simply seeing an infestation doesn’t tell the entire story. It’s critical to know why the infestation is occurring in the first place, no matter if it’s inside or outside your home.

There are countless scenarios that can cause rodent or insect infestation. The source can be unsuspected such as a leaky toilet serving as a pool of water for rats. Professional pest control companies can help you identify and remove the source.

You Want it Done Right the First Time

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to get rid of pests and have them quickly return again. If you don’t want to deal with pests more than once, professionals help you get rid of the problem for good.

You Have Health and Safety Concerns

Infestations can cause serious health consequences ranging from salmonella to yellow fever and lyme disease. It doesn’t take many pests at all to bring disease into your home.

You’ve Exhausted Your Options

Maybe you already tried the DIY approach without results. Some infestations can be notoriously difficult to get rid of, such as fleas. This is because you have to exterminate every stage of the flea life cycle or the infestation will begin again.

Contact Brody Brothers Pest Control

Is pest control really necessary?

We find that homeowners have better extermination success rates with our services than handling it alone. It also eliminates the clean-up process and saves you the trouble of trying to guess what kind of pest is causing you stress, worry and the whole nine yards.

In the long run, it can also help you save time and money.

For peace of mind and professional assistance, contact Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore and request a FREE estimate.

The post Is Professional Pest Control Really Necessary? appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

There are approximately 91, 000 described bugs in the United States, many of which can easily find their way into your home. No matter where you live, you’re bound to come across an insect or two in your residence. Bugs of any kind are disturbing, however, some can be dangerous, destroy your food, and even damage your house. The good news is, there are many preventative measures you can take so it doesn’t get to the point of infestation.

Before the entire cast of A Bug’s Life makes themselves comfortable, take a look at our guide about common bugs that you may find in your home. With our help, you’ll know the signs of unwanted critters and how to ward them off.

Ants

Ants are perhaps the most common bug that you may find in your home. The reason for this: crumbs. Food morsels and a reliable water source are sure to attract ants. Luckily, more harmful ant species, such as the Red Imported Fire Ant, are not as prone to enter your home and take advantage of these resources. Nonetheless, those that do find their way into your house can create an unappealing mess if it gets out of hand. To keep ants out of your home, regularly vacuum so there aren’t crumbs on the floor and remember to clean up any spills as soon as they occur.

Spiders

The majority of spiders are harmless, but this still doesn’t make them a welcomed house guest. Typically, spiders prefer to be outdoors, but if your home has high moisture, they’ll likely try to find their way inside. There must also be plenty of other bugs in your home for the spiders to eat. In the fall, when insect populations are low and outside resources dry up, it’s common for hunter types, like the wolf spider, to enter your home. Spiders tend to enter the home via gaps around utilities in the foundation. Poor weather stripping on the doors and windows act as another access point for the web-making spiders. Once inside, spiders will slowly become a nuisance, as you’ll notice their webs around the house. However, one good thing about spiders and their Webs is that they can catch other bugs in your home that may have caused further issues.

Flies

There are several types of flies that can infiltrate and exploit your humble abode. Not only are they an annoyance, but flies spread diseases and can even cause food poisoning. Typically, old garbage, fruit, and any old food that people leave out attract flies. Therefore, a great way to combat flies is to take out the garbage when its full and to never leave any food out for long periods.

Stink Bugs

If you’ve never seen one, stink bugs are brown and shaped like a shield. And while they may look like any old insect, you cannot dispose of these bugs by smashing them. If you smash a stink bug, they will release a less than pleasant odor—hence the name, stink bug. Normally, stink bugs find their way into your home during the fall months to seek out warmth. Any easy way to remove stink bugs is to grab a paper towel and force them onto it.

Crickets

Many of us know crickets for the annoying sounds they make. Although they typically reside outdoors, sometimes you’ll hear their chirping from within your home. While they aren’t necessarily harmful, crickets’ sound can serve as a source of irritation. To ensure you aren’t attracting these singing insects, avoid leaving doors open and seal any gaps in your foundation. Furthermore, light attracts crickets, so try to not keep a lot of lights on—especially at night.

Bees and Wasps

Bees and wasps not only make annoying buzzing noises, but they can be quite harmful if they were to sting you. Bees and wasps love sugary drinks, yellow and white colors, and rotting fruit—all of which they may find in the typical home. However, bees and wasps live outdoors, which is where nests are located. To reduce stinging pests around your property, keep your yard clean of debris, keep your trash clean and covered with a lid, and clean up any food if you eat outside. If you notice a hive in your home, enlist the services of a professional who can safely remove it for you.

Mosquitoes

Mosquito bites are irritating and itchy, and they can even carry some serious diseases with them, such as Zika and West Nile. Plus, mosquitoes are not only a threat to you and your family—they will also bother your pets. Unfortunately, no matter if we’re inside or outside, humans entice mosquitoes. The carbon dioxide we breathe out draws them in, and they thrive on sucking our blood. Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent mosquito bites, from professional services like Brody Brothers Yard defense to some natural repellents.

Beetles

Rumor has it, beetles are the most common bugs in the world, which only increase the chances of them entering your home. As with so many other insects, lights and debris around the exterior of the home will draw them in. On top of this, it can be easy to confuse beetles with other kinds of bugs. If you’re unsure you’re dealing with beetles, you can distinguish them by their fat body shape and hardened wings.

Termites

Termites are incredibly destructive and are sure to cause issues within your home. Termites can damage the structure of a house—as mosquitoes like to feed on blood, termites like to feed on wood, the most common building material for homes. Termites can be tough to spot as well. Telltale signs that you have termites include destroyed timber, tunnels in wood, and track marks below the paint.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are easily identifiable by their antenna-like ears. If cockroaches get into your home, they’ll likely destroy fabrics and spread disease via food contamination. They also quickly reproduce in large numbers, easily starting an infestation. Like many of the other bugs on this list, cockroaches are on the hunt for food crumbs. They also like moisture—they typically dwell in the kitchen under the sink and crevices near food and water.

Although our list is vast, there are plenty of other bugs that can find their way into your home. Whether they enter through small cracks in your home’s structure or open doors and windows, in all likelihood, bugs will make their way into your house. Thus, try to keep opening windows and doors to a minimum, especially at night. You should also have screens installed at every entrance. Plus, based on the content above, you may have noticed that the majority of bugs like the same things. That is why it’s so important to keep your home clean. By doing so, you can eliminate half the bugs on this list.

In most situations, you can easily get rid of insects yourself. However, sometimes it can get out of hand and you’re left with an infestation. If this happens, contact a commercial exterminators like Brody Brothers Quality Pest Control—we’re a leading Baltimore County exterminator who can get rid of the problem properly.

The post 11 Common Bugs That You May Find in Your Home appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

The average American home is crawling with pests, even if invisible to the naked eye, our pest experts are on the hunt in Baltimore, MD and surrounding areas! If you, like many other homeowners, suffer from pests, you don’t need to worry! With the help of Brody Brothers Pest Control, you can eliminate and prevent pest populations in and around your home.

A Study of the Average American Home

A recent study from a team of entomologists sought to determine how many arthropods (spiders, centipedes, insects, etc.) were in the average home. In the study, the entomologists found an amazing amount of diversity across residences. Out of the homes studied, every home had at least 32 species present, with the most populated home having 128! 

The good news is that the households that suffer from pests are not dealing with harmful ones. Just the annoying ones! April showers bring May flowers, but the rain also brings out the bugs! The most common insects discovered included cobweb spiders, carpet beetles, and ants. Some of the more harmful insects like cockroaches, and fleas were found overall in 10% of less of homes in the study.

Unusual Infestations

While you may be able to keep calm when you see a few spider webs around your home, there are some critters and crawlers you never want to see anywhere in or around your home!  If you suffer from rodents like rats, you should take the problem seriously. Rodents invade approximately 21 million homes in the United States every winter. 24% of them dwell in the attic and garage, 50% spend time in the kitchen and 27% live in the basement. Even more concerningly for Maryland residents, 35% of homes in the Northeast experience rat control problems. Brody Brothers Pest Control helps our Baltimore City residents the most when it comes to rodent control in Maryland! 

Don’t Suffer From Pests Without Help

Brody Brothers Pest Control works with thousands of property owners every year to keep properties safe and free from harmful insects, rodents, and pests. If you’re looking for home pest control in Maryland or if you have questions about pest inspections for your home, contact us online or give us a call at (410) 653-2121 (Baltimore area) or (301) 637-0178 (Montgomery County).

The post How Many Homes in the United States Suffer from Pests? appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.

Why do ants love your kitchen?

Ants are scavengers, and there is no better place to search for unattended household scraps than in the kitchen. As long as there is a source, the ants will continue to return. The warm temperatures of springtime are the perfect conditions for ants to explore to feed or house their colonies. Simultaneously, spring rain will force the ants inside, and they congregate where they can find food.

What can you do?

Here are a few quick tips to repel ants and discourage them from invading your kitchen this spring:

• Clean up all crumbs after every meal. Wipe down your counters and tables with warm soapy water for the best results at removing all food residue. Ensure that no crumbs are sitting out on the surface or hiding in crevices or corners.
• Dry your counters, sinks, and floors thoroughly. Ants are very attracted to standing water. Puddles can build up after cleaning the counters, doing the dishes, uncleaned spills, or using the sink.
• Take the trash out quickly after throwing out odorous food. Remember, ants love sugary treats!
• Store food in baggies and airtight containers. Do not leave any food uncovered.
• Sweep the floor thoroughly and often.

Finding the Ant Colony

If ants continue to appear even after you have taken all of these steps, you may have a colony in or near your home. Finding these colonies can be challenging if there is not an obvious trail of ants to follow. Brody Brothers can assist you in eliminating the colony promptly. We deal with the five most common ant species in Maryland and will work with you to determine a plan that works for you and your situation.

Curious what Maryland ant species you are dealing with?

Take a look at these suspects common in Maryland:

• Acrobat ants
• Carpenter ants
• Odorous house ants
• Pavement ants
• Thief ants

General Upkeep to Repel Ants

Ants are very common in Maryland in the spring. Despite the fact that your house seems to be getting messier as the kids get more excited for the end of school, remember to keep up with proper food storage and appropriate cleaning of food and water to repel ants. Even if you do not think your home is at risk, a light June rain may just be enough to make your kitchen look very appealing to some ants who need shelter and food. Ants are attracted to many common kitchen ingredients. If you live in an area that is prone to getting ants, be attentive to the state of your kitchen, and wipe down counters often with warm soapy water. Keeping up with your kitchen cleaning will go a long way in encouraging the ants to scavenge elsewhere this spring. 

Call Us Today for Expert Pest Control

Brody Brothers Pest Control works with hundreds of property owners every year to keep properties safe and free from harmful insects, animals, and pests. If you’re looking for ant control in Maryland or if you have questions about pest inspections for your new home, contact us online or give us a call at (410) 653-2121 (Baltimore area) or (301) 637-0178 (Montgomery County). 

The post Defending Your Kitchen: How to Repel Ants this Spring appeared first on Brody Brothers Pest Control in Baltimore.