Disease Spreading Asian Tiger & Yellow Fever Mosquito Prevention & Control in Manassas, VA

Mosquitoes have been roaming the planet for millions of years, pestering man with their blood pilfering crimes and leaving behind the itchy reminders. Virginia has its share of mosquitoes as most if not all of the locals can attest to. With so much going on with mosquitoes, we at CSI Home and Commercial Services would like to take the opportunity to expound on the mosquitoes in your background.

What Mosquito Species Transmit Zika Virus?

Circulating throughout Virginia are infected mosquitoes eager to bite and cause you to acquire the Zika virus. Primarily transmitted through mosquitoes, particularly the yellow fever mosquito as well as the Asian tiger mosquito, the Zika virus can be a concern. The Asian tiger mosquito is by far the most commonly seen in Virginia but both of these mosquitoes are here. During mosquito season in Virginia, the risk of being transmitted by local mosquitoes is possible.

Yellow Fever & Asian Tiger Mosquitoes

Beginning in May, mosquito season is nigh and there is potential for our local yellow fever mosquitoes and Asian tiger mosquitoes to become infected with the Zika virus by biting infected persons who have returned from areas of Zika activity. Because they fly and bite during daylight hours and will enter homes through any open door or window and bite indoors, these two mosquito species are different from most other mosquito species in Virginia. Additional differences from other species is that they lay their eggs only in containers of water and they do not lay their eggs in bodies of water such as puddles, flooded ditches, ponds or streams.

Mosquito Prevention

Not only are the Asian tiger and yellow fever mosquito different in reproduction and daily habits, their prevention and control requires strategic tactics that branch off from the other mosquitoes. Locating and removing standing water from potential containers where bodies of water might accumulate such as; glass, metal, concrete, plastic, ceramic, wood, or stone where mosquito eggs are laid is essential. Comprehensive inspections of the grounds for all potential nurseries are the first in preventative maintenance. Ensuring homes and businesses are equipped with screens in prime condition on the windows and doors, especially the ones that are opened frequently are also ideal.

Other Diseases Caused By Mosquitoes

These mosquitoes that are more common in Virginia are not only threatening the locals with Zika; but other less common mosquito species can potentially transmit other mosquito-borne ailments as well. Other diseases can include West Nile virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, and La Crosse encephalitis. Additionally, diseases can also get imported into Virginia and mosquitoes can be vectors of tropical diseases like dengue and chikungunia.

Mosquito Control

When it comes to mosquitoes, it is important to take necessary precautions; mosquito repellents, protective clothing and above all, professional preventative and control services. With CSI Home and Commercial Services, we specialize in mosquito control. We can come to your home and business and assess the potential dangers that might attract mosquitoes. After a thorough inspection, we will present a customized solution to protect your property from these blood sucking pests.

Best Way to Treat for Eastern Subterranean Termites in Fairfax, VA; Termite Inspections & Professional Treatment

While termites are not harmful to humans, they are considered pests. Wood damaging pests that are responsible for over $5 billion dollars in damage repairs in the United States every year. The Eastern Subterranean Termite is the most common species of termite found throughout the United States. They are very small with their bodies about half the size of the head of a match. Termites are active across the state of Virginia and swarm during the day from February to May. The potential for termite damage is significant if you live in Virginia and areas that have higher chances of activity will require more control measures.

How to Do a Termite Inspection & Check for Termites

1. Look in the basement for signs of termites. Termites do very well in areas that have high levels of moisture. Basements are an ideal spot because they have a lot of wood for them to feed on, so make every effort to keep moisture levels low in the basement by using dehumidifiers to keep termites away.
2. Signs of termites in the garage. Garages are another area in homes that can contain high levels of moisture, clutter and wood for termites to thrive. Try not to store wood in the garage and make sure it’s sealed as best as you can.
3. Check landscaping around foundation of home. Nicely landscaped lawns look great but they can also provide habitats for termites. Check under rocks, timber and other areas that termites will thrive and piles of wood chips should be avoided or kept away from your home.

Signs You Have Termites; Swarmers, Discarded Wings, Mud Tubes, Frass & More

Vigilance is key in any war against termites because the damage can continue for long periods of time before you even realize you have a problem. They will make short work of your home in no time, so don’t let them get started in the first place. Preforming regular inspections is the first line of defense. Wood that sounds hollow likely means you have underlying termites. The presence of large groups of winged swarmers and piles of their wings left behind is another indication. The swarmers are attracted to light so you might find them indoors around light fixtures, windows, doors and vents. Paint that is cracked on wooden surfaces is another sign they have make their way into your home. Common areas that termites will use to get into your home are from beneath the surface of the soil, wood or by using their mud tunnels. Mud tubes found on the exterior of your home is another indication they are present along with wood colored droppings called frass that resemble sawdust. Be diligent when inspecting your home. It only takes a little bit of time but it will be time well spent when you consider the amount of money and damage saved from a termite infestation.

Termite Inspection & Treatmente

It can be hard to determine how termites got inside in the first place. This makes them very hard to control and because they have the potential to cause millions of dollars of damage to homes each year it’s imperative to use highly trained pest control specialists when dealing with termites. Contact CSI Home & Commercial Services for a termite inspection and to have a plan devised to rid your home of these wood destroying pests. Call us today!

Types of Beetles in Fredericksburg, VA; Identification of Powder Post & Old House Borer Beetles, Fabric & Pantry Pests

Beetles, (scientific name Coleptera) are the largest order of insects found throughout the world. Approximately 40% of all insect species are beetles and many of these can be found in the United States. Wood destroying beetles such as the powder post beetle and old house borers have been known to cause considerable damage to buildings and other structures. Other types of beetles including the black and varied carpet beetles, the saw toothed beetle, red flour beetle, cigarette beetle and drug store beetle cause damage to fabric and pantry products and are often referred to as fabric and pantry pests. One of the most notorious garden variety beetles is the Japanese beetle which can cause extensive damage to plants and trees. These are the most common species of beetles property owners in Virginia can expect to find in and around their homes and businesses. Many of these pests are cause for concern and require effective pest control and maintenance programs from your pest control specialists.

Types of Wood Boring Beetles; Powder Post & Old House Borers

Powder post beetles are known to infest virtually any item that is made from wood causing serious damage to structures. The larvae of the beetles live in and consume wood that is both dry and seasoned. Adult beetles are approximately 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch long and vary in color between grey and dark brown to black. The larvae of these beetles live in and consume dry, seasoned wood. Powder post beetles are known to infest hardwood furniture, window & door molding and hardwood floors. Beetles prefer conditions with high moisture contents that are poorly ventilated including garages and utility rooms. The infestation can then spread to other areas including walls, rafters and subfloors.
Old House Borers are 5/8 to 1 inch long, and black or brownish in color with shiny spots on their bodies that resemble eyes. They prefer softwoods particularly pine. The larvae feed on the wood before maturing in the spring. The full grown larvae can often be heard boring in the wood, making a rhythmic ticking sound that has been compared to the sound of a mouse gnawing.

Types of Pantry & Fabric Beetles; Varied & Black Carpet Beetles & Saw Toothed, Red Grain, Cigarette & Drug Store Beetles

Fabric and pantry pests can be found in virtually every home or business and while some of these pests are an occasional nuisance others can cause extensive damage to personal items, home furnishings and food products. Some beetles, including the varied carpet beetle and black carpet beetle feed on products containing animal proteins such as wool and leather. These types of pests are more often found in closets and storage areas as opposed to kitchens and pantries. Pantry pests including saw toothed beetles, red grain beetles, cigarette beetles and drug store beetles feed on plant materials including flour, grains, nuts, seeds, cereals, dried flower arrangements and tobacco. Both food and pantry pests are often brought home unintentionally from the store although fabric beetles can also be brought into the home or business from outside sources including trees and shrubs surrounding the property. Once inside fabric beetles can lay eggs on woolen carpets and other fabric items often causing extensive damage. If you find insect activity repeatedly in a closet or pantry, the evidence points to a pest problem.

Wood Boring, Fabric & Pantry Beetle Inspections, Prevention & Control

If you have a problem with wood boring, fabric or pantry beetles in your Virginia home or business, contact the knowledgeable experts at CSI Home & Commercial Services and ask about our comprehensive pest control treatment, prevention and maintenance programs designed to rid your home of unwanted pests.

Where Do Roof Rats Live During the Day & Night in Manassas, VA? Roof Rat Infestation Identification & Control

Rodents certainly have been a plague on man for centuries. They have been known to adapt very well to their surroundings whether it is outside or inside. Rats are harmful to your health as they spread disease, germs, and bacteria as well as causing costly damages while foraging for food, water, and nesting materials. Their gnawing and scratching can destroy structure, utility lines, and your property fast. One of the more common species of rats in Virginia is Roof Rats and today, we at CSI Home and Commercial Services would like to take a closer look at them to help you gain a better understanding.

What Do Roof Rats Look Like?

A roof rat’s body will generally grow between 6” and 8” and the tail is an additional 7” to 10” long. Weighing between 5 and 12 ounces, roof rats are typically an assortment of colors such as blends of black, brown, variations of gray, whites, and blacks. Their fur is often smooth and soft to the touch. The roof rat’s muzzle is pointy and they have large eyes and ears of which are nearly furless.

Where Do Roof Rats Live During the Day & Night?

Roof rats have an incredible ability to climb and traverse the roof tops of buildings and power lines, hence their name. They often find their way into your home business by gaining entry to the buildings by damaged vents, utility lines, or other deteriorating areas on the rooftop. Outdoors, the roof rat will frequently nest above ground, in trees and in other dense vegetation. Indoors they frequent attic spaces, the area just above ceilings, behind walls, and in the top areas of cabinets.

Where Are Roof Rats Found?

Roof rats are scattered throughout the United States, but are more heavily concentrated around the coastline, especially near seaports. More often than not roof rats are intruding the homes and businesses in an effort to find food, water, and to escape extreme weather conditions. With their highly adaptable and clever ways, they are able to elude humans. With increased reproductive activities, roof rats can be difficult to contain without professional assistance.

Best Ways to Prevent Roof Rats

In effort to help homes and business avoid roof rats from intruding in their property, we at CSI Home and Commercial Services have compiled a concise list you can do minimize their intrusions.
– Evaluate the roof and repair or replace any missing, damaged, or loose roof shingles and ensure the chimney, if applicable, has a tight fitting cap.
– Check all the outdoor trash cans and ensure their lids are closed and secure. Keep them stored a fair distance away from your home or business. Wash them out periodically.
– Maintain bushes and trees by keeping them pruned and trimmed away from the house.
– Caulk and/or weather strip windows and doors as needed.
– Inspect the vents and ensure they have tight fitting covers on them.
– Keep human and pet food sealed in air tight containers and avoid leaving food debris out for long periods of time.

Roof Rat Control

If you suspect roof rats are infesting your home or business in Fairfax, Manassas, Fredericksburg or surrounding communities of Virginia, contact CSI Home and Commercial Services and we will do the rest.

How to Identify & Control Odorous, Carpenter & Little Black Ants in Fairfax, VA

Ants are a common pest during the warmer summer months, and people want to know what they are dealing with. Ants are not a real threat to people because they are so small the bite doesn’t pack enough potency to have a big impact. The bite can leave with an irritated and itchy spot on someone that is unlucky enough to get in their path. There are many types of ants around the area that cause trouble for people. Although most ants like their life outdoors they are not going to pass up a free meal from a home that has a pile of crumbs to choose from. If you want to know what ants might be disturbing your home we have compiled a list to help.

CSI Home & Commercial Services Lists the Most Common Ants Found in Virginia

Carpenter Ants: This is a special ant that is different than all the other species due to the extensive damage it causes. The ant actually causes some serious damage to homes because of the area they like to tunnel and nest in. Just like the name suggests, the carpenter ant chooses to chew through the wood beams in your home to find a place to nest. This is where they cause damage. They are similar to a termite in the damage they cause but the big difference is they don’t ingest and eat the wood they just chew through it so they are still looking for actual food. These are two of the reasons carpenter ants are found in homes; the wood and crumbs that are readily available.
Odorous Ants: This is an interesting ant in that they are pretty small; only coming in about 1/8th of an inch fully grown. Odorous ants are normally a brown coloring and live in a large colony. Another way to identify this type of ant is when they are smashed they give off an odor that is similar to rotted coconut. This can be a nasty smell to have around your home which is why it is better to have a professional company deal with them if they get into your home. The reason they are in homes is often due to the size of the colonies. It is hard to keep enough food when the colony can reach up to 100,000 members. Odorous ants are constantly in search of food and can find it near trash cans and in houses.
Little Black Ant: The name of this type of ant really says it all. The ant is little and black in color reaching about 1/16th of an inch in total length. They have a small two node segmented body and a very small stinger. The colonies tend to stay fairly small and that makes them easy to leave and travel to a new location when they find food or they are disturbed in any way. Little black ants are known to get in kitchens and bathrooms in search of food and water as well as a place to stay.

Professional Ant Control

No matter what kind of ants you find in your home, call CSI Home & Commercial Services to have them treated today.

Need for Visual Bed Bug Inspections in Fredericksburg, VA; Signs & Detection of Bed Bugs in Your Home or Business

The presence of bed bugs is rapidly on the rise and many homeowners are realizing that bed bugs are not just limited to hotels. CSI Home and Commercial Services specializes in visual bed bug inspections, alerting homeowners of any bed bug problems that may be occurring throughout their home. Bed bugs are excellent at staying hidden from the human eye during the day and only come out at night when people are sleeping. Our experienced technicians know where bed bugs like to hide throughout a home. We will perform a thorough visual bed bug inspection to start the process of making your home a bed bug free environment.

Bed Bugs are One of the Most Difficult Pests to Get Rid of

Once bed bugs have successfully gained access into your home, they are extremely difficult to get rid of. Many homeowners do not even realize they have a bed bug problem until it has grown into an enormous infestation. Bed bugs hide in areas like furniture, creases of bed sheets, carpet fibers and mattresses. They are really great at keeping out of sight, and have often been compared to the appearance of an apple seed. Bed bugs are small, flat and dark in color, allowing them to successfully hide from the human eye. The experts at CSI Home and Commercial Services know exactly where to look for bed bugs throughout your home and will pin point the exact location of bed bugs during the visual inspection. Do not let bed bugs wonder freely around your home, contact CSI Home and Commercial Services today and schedule a visual bed bug inspection.

There are Many Signs that Indicate Bed Bug Infestations in Your Home

You may not think that bed bugs are inside of your home, but there a handful of signs that indicate otherwise. The number one sign that bed bugs are inside of your home is waking up with bites all over your body. Bed bugs are nocturnal and wait for you to fall asleep so they can sink their jaws into your skin and suck your blood. These bites leave irritating welts behind and they are often found in lines of three to four bites. The bite of a bed bug is rarely strong enough to wake someone from their sleep, so it is normal to sleep through a bed bug sucking out your blood. Other signs that bed bugs may already be inside of your home include bed bugs themselves, small blood stains on your bed sheets, empty bed bug body casings found on your bed or floor and a foul odor that bed bugs leave behind. The odor is sometimes described as musty or moldy.

Bed Bug Inspections, Prevention & Control in Fairfax, Manassas, Fredericksburg and the State of Virginia

If you notice any of these signs throughout your home, contact a professional from CSI Home and Commercial Services today and schedule a visual bed bug inspection immediately.

Mosquitoes Transmit Dangerous Diseases Such as Zika Virus; How to Avoid Mosquito Bites in Manassas & the State of Virginia

When most people think of mosquitoes they immediately think of the most annoying insect on the planet. Mosquitoes have the ability to ruin a backyard barbecue, a little league baseball game or even a nice walk after dinner. The annoyance of mosquitoes can quickly send someone back indoors to avoid the constant buzzing around. While mosquitoes are very annoying they are even more dangerous. Mosquitoes can carry and transmit diseases that can be fatal to humans. While a mosquito bite may be itchy and irritating for a few days, it is the spreading of diseases that are truly harmful to the human race.

Mosquitoes Spread Dangerous Diseases

Mosquitoes have the ability to spread many different types of diseases including malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, West Nile virus and now most recently the Zika virus. If you are visiting a country where these diseases are common among the local population, it is very important that you take the proper precautions to avoid getting bit by a mosquito. It is also important that you visit a doctor to get the appropriate vaccinations at least a month prior to your departure. Take the extra steps necessary to keep your body from the dangers that mosquitoes pose.

How to Avoid Mosquito Bites

Even if you are not traveling to a foreign country where fatal diseases are common among the general population, you still have a chance of getting bitten by a mosquito while standing on your back porch, at the park or at the ball game or while camping. There are a few steps you can take to lessen the chances of a mosquito bite. Nowadays there are many reliable insect repellents on the market that if applied every one to two hours will keep most mosquitoes and other insects at bay. One of mosquitoes favorite places to hang out is over and around standing water. Mosquitoes thrive on stagnant water and are able to reproduce faster where there is standing water. If you go camping or hiking, cover up your body as best as you can. Wear long sleeve shirts, long pants and a hat that will cover your head. This will help to prevent any chance of getting bitten by a mosquito.

Mosquito Pest Inspections, Prevention & Control in Fairfax, Manassas, Fredericksburg and the State of Virginia

If you feel that your home has become a thriving location for mosquitoes to linger, contact CSI Home and Commercial Services today. Our pest technicians are skilled and experienced in dealing with mosquitoes and we know exactly what it takes to keep mosquitoes away from you, your family and your home.

Spring Lawn Care Guide in Fairfax & State of VA; Fertilization, Core Aeration, Weed Removal, Soil Testing Analysis, Disease & Insect Pest Treatments

Get your Lawn Looking Great this Spring

Weather is warming up and yard work will soon become an every Saturday morning chore to attend to. Americans all over the country take pride in their lawns and the way their yard looks compared to all the others on their block and homeowners in the State of Virginia. Having the finest looking yard is a goal that many homeowners have and spring time is the perfect time to start towards attaining that objective. Many homeowners make simple mistakes that prevent their lawn from looking its best. It is important to do your research before diving in without really knowing what you are doing.

Prepare and Plan Properly for the Perfect Lawn

Planting a new lawn requires proper preparation and planning, no matter what type of planting method you decide to go with, you need to prepare the area you plant to plant the grass thoroughly to get rid of weeds and make sure that soil will not immediately crust over or compact into hard ruts. CSI Home and Commercial Services offers expert environmentally sound fertilization, core aerations and weed removal to keep your lawn looking great. It is also important to test the ph levels of your soil in order to grow a successful lawn. CSI Home and Commercial Services offers complete inspections and thorough soil analysis.

Disease & Lawn Insect Treatments

Insects and plant disease can spread rapidly when left unchecked. CSI Home and Commercial Services can help prevent and control harmful insects and lawn diseases from damaging your landscape. Our spring insect and disease control application is designed to control insects that damage plants along with a fungicide to help protect your valuable plants from leaf damaging diseases such as littleaf on shortleaf pines.

Don’t Cut Grass Too Short

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when it comes to caring for their lawn is mowing the grass much too short. When you mow your grass to a very short height, you cause the grass to feel stress. Take the time to raise your mower to the highest possible notch so you are only mowing the top third of the grass when you cut. Taller grass actually promotes much healthier root development, resulting in a stronger and longer lasting lawn. Taller grass also blocks the sun from weed seeds that require it to germinate.

Your Lawn needs Water to be Healthy and Happy

Watering your lawn is essential to keeping it green, keeping it growing and keeping it alive. Watering once a week is a great rule to follow, make sure you keep within your watering guidelines to avoid any costly fees. A weekly soaking will assist in extending roots deeper into the soil. Watering deeply will also assist in keeping harmful insects out of your lawn as well. If you have questions about keeping your lawn healthy and strong this spring, contact CSI Home and Commercial Services today.

Termite Inspections & Control for Home Purchases, Sales & Prevention of Termite Infestations in VA Homes

When selling or renting a home there are many important steps to take to prepare your property to look its best; and if you are buying, to make sure that you know exactly what it is that you are getting. A home inspection is necessary to put home buyer and seller at ease and allow any issues that the home may be experiencing to get resolved so the deal can close smoothly. Home inspections are a great way to ensure that any issues the home has can be repaired and addressed so the home owner can be at peace. One of the most important aspects of a home inspection is the identification of any sign of termites.

Termite Damage

Termites destroy more homes every year than any other pest in the country. Termites can often be very difficult to locate. Most home owners have no idea that they even have a termite problem until it is much too late and a great deal of damage has already been done to their home. Termites have the ability to chew and tunnel through not only wood, but also other materials that make up your home like drywall and insulation. The structural integrity of your home is put at risk when termites invade your home.

Termite Inspection Report for Home Purchase

A home inspection performed by a professional will locate any areas of the home that have been inhabited by termites, any damage they have already caused and where their current nests are. A home inspection will also tell the professional inspector exactly where the termites gained access into the home, so those areas can be properly repaired and sealed off to prevent future termite problems. A professional home inspector knows exactly what to look for and is familiar with all of the signs that termites leave behind as they enter into your home.

Termite Home Inspections & Management in Virginia

The most important aspect of a home inspection that leads to the findings of termite presence is to assess the damage that has already taken place. A professional home inspection performed by CSI Home and Commercial Services of Virginia will alert you to any areas of the home that have been damaged by termites and what type of repair is necessary to get your home back to proper code and safety. Knowing that your home is properly sealed off and protected from termites will bring a peace of mind to you and to any potential buyer that may be interested in your home. Contact CSI Home and Commercial Services of Virginia today for a professional home inspection.

Mold, Lead & Radon Home Inspections, Testing, Detection, Removal & Remediation

Mold is a dangerous material to have growing in your home and not only causes damage to your home’s structure, but also becomes a major health risk to you and your family. Mold can be the cause of serious respiratory illnesses, making it difficult for you and your family to breathe within your home and the damage it causes can become permanent as well. Having your home inspected for mold is a great way to keep your home safe and comfortable to live in. Mold inspections should be performed by a professional who is skilled and experienced in using all of the proper tools that thorough mold inspection require.

Mold Testing & Inspections

Mold inspections should be thorough and look at every aspect of a home including inside of the walls, in the basement and in the attic areas. If the home you are living in experienced water damage from a previous tenant that you were unaware of, you may have existing mold. If your home has recently experienced water damage from a broken pipe or plumbing leak or experienced a flood, then it is important that you contact a professional to come in and search for any type of new mold growth detection. This will prevent future mold damage to your home and keep your family safe from breathing in mold’s harmful effects.

Lead Paint Detection & Inspections

Another important inspection to have performed within your home is a lead detection inspection. Lead is a naturally occurring metal but its natural status does not mean that it is healthy. Lead is extremely toxic to humans and can affect the liver, kidneys, reproductive system and nervous system. Lead exposure can happen quietly and can also cause permanent brain damage. Lead based paint is a major source of these problems and if you are living in an older home, it is important to hire a professional to come in an perform a thorough lead testing and inspection.

Radon House Inspection

Another harmful element that is harmful to you and your family is radon. Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that forms naturally from the decay of radioactive elements like uranium that is found in soil and rocks throughout the world. Hiring a professional to inspect for high levels of radon is important to ensure that your home is safe for you and your family to live in. Being exposed to radon for a long period of time can lead to lung cancer. If you have just moved into a new home, contact CSI Home and Commercial Service today to test and inspect for harmful substances such as mold, lead and radon.