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Signs of Termites a Termite Inspection Looks For in Stafford, VA; Swarmers, Mud Tubes & More

Most are familiar with the notorious damage these insects inflict as termites are such a problem in Virginia.  In damage to buildings and structures a year, there is an estimated $50 billion due to termite infestations. Before you ever realize termites have infested it, these troublesome pests can cause extensive damage to your home or business.  They can be a challenge to detect, especially if you do not know what to look for. Termites consume wood from the inside out.  A termite inspection by a trusted professional is more than optimal whether you are looking to buy a new home, suspect termites have invaded, or heard of an infestation close by.  The general basics of a termite inspection is what we at CSI Home and Commercial Services would like to cover.

Termite Swarmers

Reproducing termites will branch out to start new colonies after a colony is well-established.  Following a few years, an established colony will produce winged reproducing kings and queens’ termites.  To start new colonies during the spring, these sexually matured adults will fly off.  The wings are shed, and they begin multiplying once termites select a new area.  A sure sign of termites is noticing them flying about or finding the discarded wings. Commonly found along windowsills are the swarmers and/or their wings. A trained professional can better recognize the intruders, there several ant species that matches this behavior, however. 

Wood Damaged by Termites

When the termites are infesting the wood currently, professionals can see any distinguishable evidence on the surface of wood though many untrained people do not notice.  Check for hollow wood, or the deep parallel grooves from excavation work, that suggests termite-damaged wood, professionals look for the crusts of dirt from where they packed the galleries with mud.

Termite Mud Tubes

Termites frequently seal small gaps with dirt to increase their comfort.   For any crusted dirt in the small holes or cracks, professionals will inspect concrete, sheetrock, mud crammed into construction joints, and even wood to look. As they look for them during the inspection should you find these mud tubes first, immediately call a professional.   Along your foundation, in the attic, and any other entry points to your home, the general areas inspected are crawlspace, generally.  Constructed with soil, wood cellulose and other debris are the mud tubes.  Avoid potential threats and maintain the humidity levels, the require these protective tubes to get to the wood. 

Termites in Landscaping

They can destroy your landscaping, and easily get to your home, termites are not just a problem once they get inside your home or business.   In addition to wooden structures, like decks, arbors, sheds, and playsets that can all be infested with termites; wood mulch, firewood, wood fencing, fallen dead trees or stumps can too.  If you stumble across it first, call in the pros.

Termite Inspections & Treatment

If you suspect termites or simply want preventative measures, professionals of CSI Home and Commercial Services are very thorough during a termite inspection can be of assistance. To schedule your termite inspection, call us today.

Bed Bug Inspection Tips; How Do I Check for Bed Bugs in Fredericksburg, VA?

The signs of bed bug infestations are commonly researched and read through online when people suspect bed bugs. Though these vampires are not linked to spreading any known diseases, the constant pilfering of your blood leaving itchy, red welt marks is more than a nuisance. It can cause great mental distress and sleepless nights. People will second guess what pest is creeping into your bed at night when you search the bed for signs of these nasty blood-lusting criminals, more often than you may think, however. In order to help you look for these blood thirsty criminals, we at CSI Home & Commercial Services would like to help you by sharing tips on how you can confirm their presence.
Bed bugs look for safe, dark corners to spend the day in since bed bugs are nocturnal, which is important to know. To help you find the bed bugs in your home, below are a few steps.

Tools to Detect Bed Bugs

Providing them a major advantage, bed bugs are tiny, no bigger than an apple seed. In order to help you find these hiding masters, have a flashlight handy when you go hunting and even a magnifying glass. Bed bugs are flat and grayish brown, aside from looing reddish and engorged after eating.

Where Do Bed Bugs Hide First?

Because they are likely still in the area, the optimal place to start looking is at the place where they were last seen or suspected of their activities. They don’t stray too far away from their meal if they don’t have to. Be sure to be thorough, start along the box spring, mattress, and bed frame. Begin looking in the nearby locations and furniture, look in the crevices and flaps and if you do not see any.

Look for Bed Bugs Around Mattress & Bed

If no bed bugs are spotted to the adjacent furnishings, behind baseboards, outlets, frames, and so on, expand the search. Curtain rods and all surrounding areas, make certain to look along the curtains. Bed bugs will hunker down nearly anywhere, so look in unconventional spots.

Follow Bed Bug Evidence

Left behind by bed bugs is a trail of evidence. Blood they were unable to digest and had to secrete, small dark red particles (there fecal matter), the skin, or shells that is their outer skeleton the bed bugs is included when you look for the clues and follow them. As they mature into the next cycle, bed bugs will shed their skin. Outside their nesting area, their shells are commonly left. The smell they secrete is fairly identifiable to bed bugs. Bed bugs will emit an odor that is obvious, smelling much like a musty, sweet smell when they have larger numbers and are in concentrated areas.

Bed Bug Inspections & Treatment

The tiny size of bed bugs enables them to hide in the smallest of cracks, crevices and other spaces. As you have to look in every crack and crevice to confirm a bed bug infestation, searching for bed bugs can be a task. Call in the professionals of CSI Home & Commercial Services for a bed bug inspection and if any are found, our experts can help you eliminate them.

How Do I Get Rid of Rats & Mice in My Manassas, VA House Fast?

Rodents are very adaptable and harmful, generally speaking.  In addition to the potential diseases any fleas or ticks they may be hosting pose as well; they carry a list of diseases. Causing damage to utility lines, structure, insulations, furnishings, and other property, rodents are known to damage homes.  Rodents are also responsible for contaminating and pilfering food.  Having rodents infest your home can be difficult and challenging to get rid of. The possible rodent species that might be invading your Virginia home is what we at CSI Home & Commercial Services would like to discuss today. 

Norway Rats

Measuring from the tip of their nose down to the end of their tail, these rats average 16 inches and weigh over 17 ounces, just over a pound.  Commonly known as the “big rats,” these rodents have capsule-shaped droppings that contribute to identifying an infestation.   Also, these rats have ears and a tail covered in scales and they have shaggy brown or gray fur.  Also, the length of their bodies is shorter than the tail.  These rats are bulky though they take advantage of indoor living, they do prefer to live outdoors and nest in underground burrows.  In addition to sewers and basements, popular nesting areas are the ground level of homes and businesses.   Since they often nest in dense vegetation to offer more concealment, any vegetation surrounding your home increases the risk of a breach and an infestation.  Norway rats will eat anything from garbage to other edibles, and being omnivorous critters, cockroaches, grains, seeds, meats, fruit, and other food wastes are in their diet.   Though they are not social pests, Norway rats do live in communities with dominant and subordinate members.  

Roof Rats

Roof rats measure about 15 inches from the tip of their nose to the end of their tails.  They have larger ears and eyes, a longer tail, and a pointed nose when compared to other rats.   They are smaller and sleeker than Norway rats, and their black or brown fur is smooth.  For protection, these outdoor rodents stick to high places like in trees with dense leaves and branches since they are accomplished climbers.  The attic space, and in the wall voids as well as above ceilings inside are the places they tend to stick. When they come into homes, it is usually because the food or water is scarce or to escape extreme weather conditions.  Roof rats are also omnivorous and will eat nearly anything but tend to prefer fruit and nuts.  

Common House Mouse

The house mouse has a white or light-colored belly, and their short hair varies from light brown or gray to black.  The ears and tail have hair, but it is a bit sparser.  The tip of the nose to the tail averages about 7 inches long and weight is about an ounce.  Their droppings are rod-shaped and pointed on both ends.  House mice are notorious for invading homes and business across Virginia. To gain entry to structures, their nesting habits cause minor damage and only require a ¼” crack or hole.  These rodents prefer living indoors where food and water are readily available. These mice have shelter from the elements and predators.  In unsanitary places, and other such areas house mice will often hide in the wall voids is where they choose to nest in clutter.  

White-Footed Mouse

White-footed mice are very small, only about 3 1/2 – 4 inches long not including the length of the tail, which is often as long as the rest of the mouse’s body. White-footed mice are timid in nature and generally avoid humans. In the wild, they are omnivorous, eating seeds as well as insects they’ve found. However, in your home, they’ll feast on any leftover food they can find. The white-footed mouse prefers habitats that include forests and brush lands, specifically, the forest edge where vegetation is low and scrubby, as well as in the rural and sub-rural areas of Virginia. Insects, nuts, seeds, and berries are included in their diet in addition to the grass, weeds, or other low growing vegetation.  

Rodent Control

Call CSI Home & Commercial Services and let our qualified experts conduct a thorough inspection and then begin a custom rodent control plan to best deal with any rodents on your property. 

Are there Dangerous Spiders in Fairfax, VA? Black Widows, Brown Recluse & More

Most are very rare or spend most of their life in hiding while there are hundreds of different spider species native to Virginia.  Today, we at CSI Home & Commercial Services would like to address the common spiders while focusing on the spiders that can cause a threat.  You might be worried if it can harm you if you are trying to identify a spider you found.  Only a few are actually of medical importance for humans though all spider species are venomous to some degree.   The black widow is the most common venomous spider found here.

Are Black Widows Spiders Dangerous?

The southern black widow and the northern black widow spider can be found in Virginia.  The more common species is the southern black widow.   The red hourglass-shape on the bottom of the northern black widow’s abdomen is broken into two parts while the southern black widow has a connected red hourglass. This is the only visual difference between the two.  If you suspect you have been bitten by a black widow spider, you will want to seek medical attention to help manage the symptoms. The similar looking and related false widow can also deliver a painful bite while the black widow is the most venomous spider in Virginia.         

Brown Recluses are Not Native to Virginia

The brown recluse spider is not native here and has not established a population, though there are occasional reports of brown recluse sightings in Virginia.  It is important to know that these sightings are nothing more than isolated cases where a venomous brown recluse spider has hitchhiked to Virginia in cars or cargo goods.  Brown recluse spiders naturally range further down south.  A brown recluse bite might lead to severe skin damage, while usually not life-threatening.    

Other Common Spiders Found in Virginia

The yellow sac spider is another spider that bites in Virginia. It can cause some uncomfortable pain and even nausea while not considered medically significant. Jumping spiders, cobweb spiders, wolf spiders, orb weaver spiders, funnel-web spiders and grass spiders are the largest spider families found here. The Carolina wolf spider is the largest spider found in Virginia.  It can reach a leg span of over 4 inch and this spider is brown.  Fishing spiders and nursery web spiders are other large spiders that are similar-looking to grass spiders.

Spider Control

Spiders are typically unwanted guests in your Virginia home.  Whether they are inside, or living close by, you want to ensure they are controlled.   CSI Home & Commercial Services provides effective spider control services in Virginia.   Call us today to schedule your services!

How to Get Rid of Asian Tiger Mosquitoes in My Lorton, VA Home & Yard

Though there is only about 30 species are commonly encountered, there are about 50 species of mosquitoes found in Virginia.   Typically, lowland swamps, coastal salt marshes, and other similar watery environments are associated with mosquitoes by many of Virginia’s residents.  The mosquito that is number one when it comes to biting people living in Virginia is the Asian tiger mosquito.  Today, we at CSI Home and Commercial Services would like to discuss the mosquitoes in Virginia. 

Where Do Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Lay Their Eggs?

Since its development habitats are made up of artificial or natural containers that hold water and the female lays her eggs in “containers” of water or tree holes, the Asian tiger mosquito is known as a container developer.  The best way to control the Asian tiger is by eliminating its breeding places that may be found near the home because this mosquito is a poor flier.  In addition to neglected wading pools and boats, suitable development sites for this mosquito are tree holes, tires, flowerpots, cans, buckets, bird baths, rain gutters, and downspouts that accumulate and hold water in general. 

Where Do Asian Tiger Mosquitoes Bite?

Open, sunlit sights are usually avoided, and Asian tiger mosquitoes are active during daylight hours.  Waiting for a potential host to come along, they also spend much of their time as adults resting in dense foliage.  They are quite wary and will likely bite the ankle and lower portion of the leg while they are certainly persistent in their desire to bite a host.  There is a good chance they are Asian tiger mosquitoes if you are outside during the day, there is little or no wind, in the shade of your patio or porch, and you notice mosquitoes cautiously flying around. 

Is the Asian Tiger Mosquito Dangerous?

Eastern equine encephalitis, West Nile virus, La Crosse encephalitis, and St. Louis encephalitis are the most common diseases transmitted by mosquitoes in Virginia.   All cases through 2016 are associated with travel to countries that are Zika-affected while there have been cases of Zika virus reported in Virginia.  The Asian Tiger mosquito is a potential vector of encephalitis, dengue (all four serotypes), yellow fever and dog heartworm.

How Do You Repel & Prevent Asian Tiger Mosquitoes?

There are many solutions and programs to help you avoid mosquitoes from congregating near your home.  The professionals of CSI Home and Commercial Services can help you protect your home or business, but there are steps you can take to contribute to the cause.

                1)  Repair any gaps.   Patch any gaps in screens and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.  If you go through a careful process to rid your home of mosquitoes just to invite them in again, it will not do any good. It is likely not properly sealed if you can see sunlight in the space around your door.    Make sure to add weather stripping if this is the case.

                2)  Remove standing water.  In standing water, adult mosquitoes lay their eggs where they larvae hatch.  Any water that’s pooled in buckets, gutters, ditches, and pet bowls, empty all stagnant bodies of water you can.  Check to see if your potted plants have enough drainage and make sure to refresh the water in any bird baths.  

                3)  Pools and ponds treatment. Apply a larvicide dunk or liquid larvicide and run the filter regularly in standing water that you can’t eliminate.  Make certain to cover the pool at night and during the months when you aren’t using it.  Targeting and killing mosquito larvae, BTI is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soil that produces toxins.   It’s non-toxic to humans, you can spray it over ponds, flowerpots, and bird baths

Mosquito Control Treatments               

Call CSI Home and Commercial Services and let us help you combat mosquitoes. 

 

 

Spring Lawn Care in Woodbridge, VA; Yard Cleanup, Mulching, Overseeding & More

To maintain a green lush turf for your Virginia property, lawn care is essential and to start the season, you want to take care of spring maintenance.  Your lawn can be healthy and green with your efforts as well as professional lawn care services.   Today, we at CSI Home and Commercial Services would like to offer some guidance on spring lawn care.  

Early Spring Lawn Care

Yard Cleanup.  Clean up the accumulating twigs, branches or other debris that has built up over winter from your lawn. Rake up dead grass and such, and properly dispose of them.  Prevent weeds and repair bare boss.   Though it is better to do so until grass is at ideal length, make certain to water newly seeded areas daily for at least a week. Do not mow the new grass until it is at least 2 inches high.  To eliminate the weeds and stimulate grass growth, apply the appropriate fertilizers.  Always follow the label’s directions if you apply product to fertilize the grass and destroy the weeds.  

Tune-up Lawn Mower. Air filter, spark plug, and oil should be replaced.   Clean the top and undercarriage, removing dirt and grass clippings-just be sure to detach the spark plug wire before working around the cutting blade.   Brush away dried grass after lifting the one side.   If the grass hardened, you could loosen it with a hand trowel or putty knife.   Make sure the blades are sharpened, however if there are large nicks or gouges, have the blades replaced.   Top off the fuel tank.  If necessary, you can hire a shop to help tune-up your mower if necessary.

Mow High. Adjust the mower deck to cut grass at the highest possible setting for your lawn’s type of grass.   With about a 3- to 4-inch blade height, corresponding to a mower’s highest setting is where most turf types thrive.  

Flower Bed Edging. In early springs, soft soil makes edging beds a cinch.  Cut a 2- to 3-inch deep, V-shaped trench along beds with a sharp garden spade or half-moon edger to keep grass out.  Maintain this edge with a string trimmer throughout the growing season.  If you’re refreshing existing trench edges in spring by digging out soil or mulch that has filled the trench, toss weed-free material onto planting beds as mulch or add it to your compost pile.  

Mulching.  Wait until soil has warmed to refresh mulch.   Mulch provides vibrant year-long color and helps help prevent weed growth by blocking access to the sun.   Add a 2- to 3-inch layer but around your plants, but on top of them.

Late Spring Lawn Care

Repair Bare Lawn Spots.  Until it becomes high enough to mow at least 2 inches tall, continue watering newly seeded areas daily.   You can mow the area once it gets to the appropriate length.

Overseed Lawn.  You can thicken a thin lawn by over-seeding.   Make sure to properly seed, fertilize and water the grass daily for at least 2 weeks. 

Remove Dandelions & Grubs from Lawn. All while feeding your grass to build strong roots, be certain to clear out dandelions and clove.   You can feed the lawn while killing the late weeds with the right applications.   Late spring is the time that hibernating grubs in the lawn begin to crawl toward the surface to chew grass roots before turning into beetles and flying off to find mates. 

Professional Lawn Care Services

By providing quality lawn care, CSI Home and Commercial Services can Improve the appearance and value of your home.   In addition to eco-friendly fertilization and weed control, treatment for disease and lawn insects as well as core aerations, we provide complete inspections and soil analysis to maximize the health and appearance of your lawn.  Call us today to get started!

How Bad is a Termite Infestation in Dale City, VA? How Do I Get Rid of Termites?

Termites have been more than a nuisance to people for centuries.  They are very destructive and can contribute to costly repairs.   To the locals in Virginia, the subterranean termites are known to infest homes and businesses.  Termites can creep into your home or business under the ground through the soil and work their way in.  Once inside, they will create a colony, and left unnoticed for 5-7 years, other colonies could be made and continue their assault through your home, yard and eventually spilling into your neighbors homes.  Termites are no easy thing to get rid of, especially from the layman’s perspective. Having CSI Home & Commercial Services on your side can guarantee removal of termite infestations. Today we at CSI Home & Commercial Services would like to relate to you what you need to know about termites infesting Virginia homes and businesses. 

VA Termite Infestation Probability

Virginia is located on the TIP (Termite Infestation Probability) Moderate to Heavy Zone for termite infestations.  This means that regardless of where a home is located in the state, there is a strong probability for a termite infestation. With a high rating, newer homes are required to have more termite control features to meet with building codes.

What Kind of Termites are in Virginia?               

Though the subterranean termites are native to the area, and are most likely the culprit to infestations, drywood termites can be transported to Virginia in wooden products carrying them, such as; furniture or wine crates.  Once they have arrived, they can potentially set up colonies.  There are three major termite groups; subterranean, drywood, and dampwood.  There are some distinctive physical characteristics you can spot to help determine which classification is in your home. 

What Does a Subterranean Termite Look Like?

Subterranean termite alates, or swarmers, are dark brown or black in color.  They range from ¼” – 1/2” in length and come equipped with 2 pairs of wings, close to equal length.  Workers are wingless and are cream colored.  Workers are tiny, never exceeding more than ¼” in length.  Soldier termites are also void of wings, but do have large mandibles, or jaws, as they are the colony’s defenders.  Their heads are usually a bit darker than their creamy-white bodies, looking a bit browner. 

Where Do Subterranean Termites Nest?

The subterranean termites build their nests underground.  The damaged wood they are consuming usually has accrued some soil or mud buildup within the tunnels they have eaten out on the wood.  Subterranean termites will feast on softwood, or other cellulose materials,  so the wood will looked layered as they leave behind the hardwood.  They will also feed going with the grain as opposed to across it, making their presence more obvious.  Subterranean termites do not always nest underground, in well established colonies, and favorable conditions, they have been known to create nests above the ground as well.  There has to be sufficient moisture for the nests to be supported. They will construct large mud tubes, to give them ability to find food in higher places, along with building up above ground nests. 

Termite Swarmers in Spring Season

Swarmers consist of reproductive males and females, they are the ones with wings, and once they have matured, they will fly off to create new colonies.  Their activity is in the spring, which is when they are more noticeable.

Termite Inspections & Treatment               

If you discover or suspect you have an infestation, call your dependable professionals at CSI Home & Commercial Services.  Our specialists are masterfully trained to efficiently remove the termite infestations so you can get your home restored.  Call us today to schedule your appointment!

Where Do Cockroaches Go in the Winter in Stafford, VA & How to Get Rid of Roaches

For many pests, winter can be challenging, and this include cockroaches.  These cold-blooded pests cannot survive environments that are too hot or too cold, though they are adapted to thrive in warm temperatures.  When exposed to colder temperatures, usually consistently below 45 degrees, for extended periods of time, some species stop growing and reproducing. However, most often in our homes and offices, roaches will seek out shelter in warm places, as temperatures drop.  With everything they need to survive the winter, these buildings provide warmth, access to water, and an abundant food supply.  When it comes to roaches, prevention is in your better interest.  Today, we at CSI Home & Commercial Services would like to offer recommendations to prevent cockroaches from taking over your home as we endure the winter.

Clean House to Keep Cockroaches Away

Be certain to always wash dishes after a meal and put them away since cockroaches are attracted to dirt and crumbs as a food source.   Promptly clean up any crumbs and spills.  Before going to bed, take out the garbage.    From your stovetop, remove any grease.  In airtight containers, store your food and any pet food.  On a regular basis, sweep, mop, and vacuum.   Avoid leaving any pet food, treats, and water out overnight. 

Eliminate Clutter where Roaches Hide

Get rid of places roaches can use to hide by clearing out clutter.  Dust often, keep rooms clutter free.   Take advantage of plastic storage bins with lockable lids versus cardboard boxes.  Roaches love to breed in these materials it is best to eliminate newspapers and cardboard altogether.  

Home Sealing for Pest Control

Through cracks and under doors is how roaches infiltrate homes.  You can help remove points of entry for cockroaches and other pests by ensuring you identify and seal these areas.  Around holes used for utility and plumbing lines, in attics and crawlspace vents, around windows and doors, along with the foundation and the roof need to be thoroughly inspected.   Use caulk to seal the small holes and cracks.  Utilize steel wool and foam to seal, especially around pipes for larger holes. To seal around attic vents and chimneys, fine mesh wire can be used.

Repair Leaks to Prevent Cockroaches in Your Home

In order to survive, cockroaches, like most pests, need water and moisture.  Unfortunately, standing water or excessive moisture can attract roaches inside your home.  Routinely inspect your plumbing for leaks and repair them promptly.  For leaks and excessive moisture, be certain to check faucets, refrigerators, sinks, and appliances.  A common source of excess moisture in homes is the crawlspace.  To help minimize moisture under your home, consider crawlspace enclosure.   

Cockroach Control 

A cockroach infestation can be extremely challenging.  Prevention can only go so far in combating roaches. Contact a professional pest control professional who can help identify the species of cockroaches you have, perform a comprehensive inspection of your home to locate points of entry or food sources, as well as assist you with a comprehensive roach control treatment and prevention plan in the event you suspect you have a problem with cockroaches in your home. The professionals of CSI Home & Commercial Services are readily available to help you with cockroach infestations as well as preventing them. Call us today!

Bed Bug Basics in Fredericksburg, VA; Where Bed Bugs Hide During the Day, Signs of Infestations & More

Many homes and businesses were inflicted with bed bugs, prior to WWII. Bed bugs were nearly eradicated by hard-working scientist was able to develop an effective pesticide just after the war ended. For a short while, bed bugs were mostly known from children’s rhymes. Unfortunately, in recent decades, bed bugs have made a comeback. Because of easy world traveling options, bed bugs have been able to spread rapidly. You need an expert to fully eliminate the bed bug population from your home or business because they immune to prior treatments, along with the hazardous chemicals being banned. Today, we at CSI Home & Commercial Services of Virginia.

What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?

Due to their tiny stature, bed bugs elude homeowners. An adult only gets to be about the size of an apple seed. Being light brown in color bed bugs have flat, oval-shaped bodies. They may look reddish and will appear engorged following a feeding, however. The only distinction is that a female bed bug’s abdomen is rounder where the male’s abdomen comes to a point because both male and females look similar. Neither sexes can fly, but they both have wing pads.

Where Do Bed Bugs Hide During the Day?

Bed bugs are usually only active at night and come out to feed, being nocturnal. Though they will choose any warm-blooded animal if absolutely, necessary humans are their preferred food source. These blood sucking insects are often found in the bed or surrounding it, presenting the name “bed bugs”. To hide out, pests look for secure places including crevices, nooks, cracks, and holes in beds, other furnishings, walls and other objects. In bedding, mattress, box springs, linens, headboard, and frames as well, bed bugs are commonly found. Usual places they reside in as their numbers grow are behind picture frames as well as under floorboards, baseboards, power sockets, light switch plates, other furniture, in alarm clocks, and other similar places.

How Do Bed Bugs Travel?

Until they are able to find a host, bed bugs are transported unknowingly and will roost in public places. Airplanes, trains, and other public transportation are easily infested by bed bugs in addition to hotels, motels and other means of lodging. Basically, any public venue is equally susceptible such as medical facilities, offices, and movie theaters. Unfortunately, bed bugs can easily be brought home in luggage, backpacks and other bags as well as in used furniture and visitors unknowingly bringing them directly into your home.

Signs of Bed Bug Infestations

Noticing you have an infestation can be challenging if you don’t know the signs. A few common signs of bed bugs are as follows.
– Blackish or brown bed bug fecal matter. It will absorb and stain on porous surfaces, and nonporous surfaces their feces will mound up.
– Due to the blood that spilled after they detached, rusty red stains adorning your sheets.
– In alignment on exposed skin, such as your arms, red, itchy, and sometimes inflamed bite marks show up.
– Bed bugs will evolve in the various stages and shed their skin as they cycle through their life which will lead you to find small little remnants on your bed or in close proximity.

Bed Bug Inspection & Treatment

If you suspect bed bugs in your Virginia home or business, call in the professionals of CSI Home & Commercial Services of Virginia and our specialists will assist you.

Danger of Rodents Such as Diseases Spread to Humans & Property Damage Caused by Rats & Mice in Manassas, VA

Like most areas, rats and mice plague the State of Virginia. But how do they get inside your home? Both residential and commercial roofs have places where varying roof angles meet. These roof adjoinments often have small gaps that allow rodents such as roof rats to enter. Once inside, rodents have access to your attic space and often breed there which causes damage to insulation and contaminates the area. Unsealed crawlspaces, cracks and holes in walls and foundations, gaps around windows or ceilings and even sewer lines also allow rats and mice to enter your home. After all, a rat only needs a gap the size of a quarter and a mouse the size of a dime. CSI of Virginia delve into the importance of rodent inspections and control to get rid of rodents on your property and keep them away!

Rodent Damage

Rats and mice can cause structural damage via gnawing, nest building and defecation. When rodents enter your home and start breeding, they can trample your attic and crawlspace insulation which decreases the insulation’s R-value and the ability to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Rodents chew wood, electrical wires and other materials they come across which can creates fire hazards as well. In addition to this property damage, rats and mice urinate and defecate indiscriminately which spreads bacteria laden filth wherever they reside.

Danger of Rats & Mice

The main cause of danger lies in the fact that rodents carry lots of harmful diseases such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV), tularemia and salmonella. When rats and mice are left unchecked to run through your kitchen cabinets, along your kitchen countertops, and underneath your plumbing; they could be spreading these diseases throughout your whole property. Their bacteria and germs can land on your food preparation areas, food, dishes, dining areas and more.

Mouse or Rat Inspection

Any professional rodent control treatment should start with a rodent inspection to determine the type of rats and/or mice, the extent of the current rodent infestation, probable access points including tree limbs that touch the roof and hidden burrows, as well as likely sources of food. This is an extensive and dirty job.

Rodent Exclusion

Rodent exclusion is also knows as rodent proofing. It involves blocking probably rodent access points by sealing gaps and holes. Every house is different and the amount of rodent exclusion necessary can vary widely. Older homes are obviously more vulnerable to rodent intrusion than newer built homes. It’s important to not just eliminate the current rat or mouse infestation but to protect your property from future rodent infestations as well.

Rodent Inspections & Control

It is a necessity for every home and business owner to rely on rodent inspection and control services to keep dangerous rodents away. CSI of Virginia knows where to look for rodents, their behavior, and how to prevent rats and mice from nesting or entering any residential or commercial building. Call us to schedule a rodent inspection and custom rodent control program today!