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As temperatures drop over the couple of months, bugs look for warmth, moisture, and food, which makes your home an ideal refuge. Small openings, crumbs, and clutter can provide the perfect conditions for pests to settle in. Preventing their entry early is the key to keeping your home bug-free all season long.   Maintain a Clean Home to Deter Bugs A clean home is less attractive to pests, as it eliminates their primary sources of food and water. Vacuum Regularly:  Vacuum at least once a week, paying attention to corners, under furniture, and along baseboards where crumbs and debris accumulate. Clean Your Kitchen Thoroughly : Wipe countertops, sweep floors, and empty trash bins daily. Use bins with tight-fitting lids to contain food waste. Declutter Your Home:  Reduce clutter, such as piles of newspapers or boxes, which can serve as nesting spots for pests. Clean Pet Areas: Wash pet dishes and clean feeding areas to remove food debris that can attract bugs. Store Food Securely:  Keep food in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or heavy-duty plastic. This deters bugs and rodents alike. Fix Leaks:  Address any leaky faucets or pipes to eliminate water sources. Avoid leaving standing water in sinks or buckets. Seal Entry Points to Stop Bugs at the Source Bugs often sneak in through tiny cracks and openings. By sealing entry points, you create a strong first line of defense. Inspect Your Home:  Walk around your home, both inside and out, to identify cracks, gaps, or holes. Pay attention to windows, doors, utility openings, and the foundation. Install Door Sweeps:  Attach door sweeps to close gaps between exterior doors and the floor. Use Caulk and Weatherstripping : Apply weather-resistant caulk to seal small gaps around doors, windows, and frames. Add weatherstripping for added protection and energy efficiency. Block Utility Openings:  Seal gaps around pipes and cables using expanding foam or steel wool, which pests can’t chew through. Repair Your Screens:  Ensure all window and door screens are intact. Replace or patch any with holes to prevent bugs from entering. Use Natural Bug Repellents for a Chemical-Free Solution Natural repellents offer safe, eco-friendly ways to keep bugs out of your home. Vinegar Solutions:  Mix equal parts water and vinegar to clean surfaces and deter pests. Use it around windows, doorframes, and counters. Essential Oils:  Peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus oils are excellent natural bug deterrents. Mix with water and spray near entry points or other problem areas. Plants and Herbs:  Grow pest-repellent plants like mint, rosemary, and basil near windows and doors. These plants emit scents bugs dislike. Schedule Regular Pest Control Inspections Professional pest inspections are vital for identifying potential problems before they escalate. Detect Issues Early:  Professionals can spot signs of pests that are easy to miss, saving you time and money. Prevent Damage:  Early intervention stops pests from causing damage to your property and belongings. Safe Treatments:  Professionals use safe, family- and pet-friendly methods to manage pests. Customized Solutions:  Pest control experts tailor treatments to your home and specific pest issues, ensuring more effective results. Year-Round Protection: Routine inspections provide ongoing peace of mind, knowing your home is consistently monitored for pest activity. Learn more about our pest control services .

Your sump pump is a vital part of your plumbing system, protecting your home from water damage and mold. While it’s often associated with rainy seasons, winter brings its own challenges. Proper care and preparation during colder months ensure your sump pump is ready to handle melting snow and ice when temperatures rise. Here are some expert tips to help you winterize your sump pump and keep it running smoothly all season long.   Disconnect the Discharge Hose The discharge hose is the final outlet for water your sump pump removes from your basement. In freezing temperatures, water inside the hose can freeze, causing blockages or damage. So disconnect the hose before winter begins to prevent freezing. Insulate and Protect Discharge Pipes If your sump pump uses pipes instead of a detachable hose, extra precautions are needed to prevent freezing. Steps to protect discharge pipes include: Ensure the pipe outlet is at least 3 meters (10 feet) from your home. Insulate pipes using pipe wraps or heating cables. Bury pipes below the frost line if possible. Position the pipe at a downward slope to ensure water drains completely. Consider a sump pump heater to keep water from freezing. Keep Your Sump Pump Running It’s a common misconception that sump pumps aren’t needed in winter. While there may be less rainfall, melting snow and sudden temperature changes can create significant water accumulation. Given that, do the following: Leave your sump pump powered on throughout the winter to handle unexpected water. If the pump activates without a connected discharge hose, it won’t harm the system immediately. However, you’ll need to reattach the hose promptly if water flow becomes necessary. Clean the Sump Pit A clean sump pit ensures your pump operates efficiently and prevents clogs caused by debris or sediment buildup from the fall. Here are steps for cleaning your sump pit: Wear protective gloves and eyewear. Unplug the sump pump from its power source. Use a bucket to remove any standing water in the sump basin. Remove large debris by hand. Scrub the sump basin’s surface with a brush or old toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly with water. Inspect the check valve for debris and ensure it’s functioning properly. Test the sump pump to confirm it’s ready for use. Close Crawl Space Vents Open crawl space vents allow cold air and snow to enter, increasing the risk of freezing pipes and sump pump components. Given that, shut crawl space vents during the winter to keep cold air out. This not only protects your sump pump but also helps retain warmth in your basement, improving overall comfort. Install a Sump Pump Ice Guard An ice guard, also known as a freeze plug, is an overflow device that provides an alternative route for water if the primary discharge path becomes frozen or clogged. It protects the sump pump motor from overheating. Plus, it ensures water can still escape the sump basin, reducing the risk of backups or flooding. Installing an ice guard is a simple but highly effective way to safeguard your sump pump in harsh winter conditions. We Know Winter Sump Pump Maintenance If you’re still unsure how to prepare your sump pump for winter, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bug Pro LLC. From routine winter maintenance to emergency repairs, we are available to keep your home safe and dry year-round. We can help you protect your home and keep your sump pump performing its best during the winter months. Learn more about our sump pump services .

As winter approaches, the warmth of your home can attract unwanted guests like mice and rats. These pests can cause extensive damage to your property and pose serious health risks by spreading diseases. Learning tips about how to prevent rodents from entering your home is key to maintaining a safe, clean, and comfortable living space during the colder months. Why Rodent Prevention Matters During Winter Rodents look for shelter in warm places during winter, and homes provide an ideal environment with food, water, and hiding spots. They can chew through wires, furniture, and walls, causing costly damage. Additionally, they contaminate surfaces and food supplies, spreading diseases like salmonella and hantavirus.   Practice Proper Food Management Rodents are always on the hunt for food, and accessible supplies will keep them coming back. Clean Kitchen Surfaces:  Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and remove crumbs to avoid attracting pests. Dispose of Trash Regularly:  Use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and take out the trash frequently. Keep outdoor bins away from your home and secure lids with bungee cords if necessary. Store Food Securely:  Use airtight containers made of glass, metal, or heavy-duty plastic. These materials are chew-proof and help keep food fresh. Secure Pet Food:  Store pet food in sealed containers and avoid leaving it out overnight. Seal Off Entry Points to Prevent Rodents From Entering Rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, making it essential to thoroughly inspect your home for potential entry points. Install Door Sweeps:  Attach door sweeps to all exterior doors to block gaps. Inspect the Exterior:  Check for cracks, holes, or gaps around windows, doors, vents, and utility pipes. Seal Small Openings:  Use caulk or weatherstripping to close gaps around windows and doors. Block Larger Holes:  Fill larger openings with steel wool or hardware cloth, which rodents find difficult to chew through. Secure these materials with heavy-duty staples or screws. Inspect Your Home for Mice and Rats Regularly Routine inspections and maintenance are essential to keeping rodents out of your home for good. Inspect Foundations and Roofs:  Look for new cracks or holes in your home’s structure and repair them promptly. Check Attics and Basements:  Keep these areas clean, dry, and organized. Avoid using cardboard boxes for storage; opt for plastic bins instead. Maintain Your Yard:  Trim trees and shrubs near your home to eliminate pathways for rodents. Clear debris like leaves, woodpiles, and trash that can serve as hiding spots.    When to Call a Professional for Rodent Control If you notice any signs of a mouse or rat infestation, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or scratching noises, consider hiring a professional pest control service. Experts can provide tailored solutions to eliminate pests and prevent future invasions. Learn more about our rodent control services .

We’ve all seen the horror stories of DIY renovations gone wrong; however, when it comes to pest control, the stakes are even higher. DIY pest control can actually be more dangerous than helpful and could lead to bigger problems. At Bug Pro, we want to help you understand why this topic is so important and how you can make an informed decision about whether or not to take matters into your own hands. One of the biggest dangers in attempting to do your own pest control is misidentifying the type of pest you have. This can lead to using a method that may not work for that specific species, which means your problem will continue and potentially grow larger. It is important to recognize that there are different types of pests and they require different approaches depending on their size and habits. Another danger with DIY pest control is that it can be hazardous if done incorrectly or without proper safety equipment. Many products used in pest control are made up of toxic chemicals that can cause harm if mishandled or used in an unsafe way. When dealing with these chemicals, it is essential to properly read labels, follow instructions, and wear protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and face masks. Not only will this ensure your safety but it will also help protect children or pets who might come into contact with any residual toxins from the pesticides you use. Finally, if a homeowner attempts to tackle a large infestation on their own, they could end up wasting both time and money due to ineffective methods or treatments that simply don't address the root cause of the issue. Professional exterminators understand how pests behave and which treatments are most effective for each species—knowledge you simply won't get from reading online guides or doing your own research. When it comes to getting rid of pests yourself, there are too many risks involved for most people to make DIY pest control worth trying at home. You could end up using harmful chemicals incorrectly or misidentifying what kind of pest you're dealing with altogether - resulting in wasted time and money as well as a continued infestation problem! For homeowners looking for solutions to their insect problems without risking their safety or wasting resources, hiring professional exterminators like our team here at Bug Pro is always your best option - after all, sometimes taking matters into your own hands just isn't worth it! Contact us today to schedule a visit from the Bug Pro team!

Meet the Bug(s) There are over 12,000 + species of ants in our world, found in every climate possible. Of these 12,000 + species, there are 5 common species that every homeowner or renter should be aware of: Argentine Ants Carpenter Ants Odorous House Ants (also known as sugar ants) Pavement Ants Red Imported Fire Ants Argentine Ants Originating from Argentina and Brazil, it is theorized that this species was brought to the United States in the 1890s via freight ships. Argentine Ants can be found in southern states, California, Missouri, Illinois, Washington, Oregon, and Maryland. In appearance, Argentine Ants tend to be a dark brown to black in color, are shiny, and are found with or without wings. They enjoy sweets like the common house ant but will eat just about anything. Argentine Ants leave pheromones wherever they forage, and in this species, the Queen will help the workers find food. Argentine Ants do not carry diseases; they leave behind their waste, thus contaminating surfaces and food. This ant species prefers areas where moisture is abundant and will nest and reproduce in standing water just like mosquitoes will. Therefore, removing any source of standing water will significantly improve the chances of not attracting this species of ants. Carpenter Ants Named so because they burrow into wood structures and build their nests within moldy and rotting wood, Carpenter Ants pose one of the greatest threats to facilities and homes of the species available. They do not eat the wood they remove but adjust it into piles at the entrances of their nest. As a result, they will create tunnel systems throughout wood frames, significantly weakening the structure and causing irreversible damage that will cost a lot of money to replace. In appearance, Carpenter Ants can range in color from black to red and are often mistaken for fire ants. The chosen diet of Carpenter Ants is anything sweet, fruits, meats, and other insects, and they do not carry diseases, though they do cause damage to wherever they have located their nests. Odorous House Ants (Sugar Ants) So-called due to their odd scent of rotten coconuts when crushed, the Odorous House Ant, or Sugar Ant as we tend to call them, are native to the United States and tend to live in very social colonies of 100,000 + members. Talk about not having any privacy! Their appearance is much like other species, brown to black in color, with six legs, antennae, and an oval and tapered-shaped body. They can also produce ants with and without wings based on the caste system. As for diet, Odorous Ants prefer dead insects and sugary-sweet items, particularly any type of melon. They nest in just about anywhere, preferring rich and moist soil, but can be found in cracks in pavement or walls/floors, logs, mulch, and other debris. This species also do not carry diseases, but they contaminate food and surfaces from the waste they leave behind. Pavement Ants Their namesake was gifted by their unusual nesting habits, choosing to build their colonies in the cracks in the pavement on driveways, roads, patios, etc. Typically, they are found in the Eastern U.S., California, and Washington. The colors of Pavement Ants are like their cousin species, browns, and blacks, with six legs, antennae, and oval/tapered-shaped bodies. They also have some winged and some un-winged castes in their social hierarchy. Their dietary restrictions aren't strict, and as a result, they eat just about anything from grease to other insects, along with their fallen brethren. They will eat sweets, meats, and fruit as well. These disease-less insects impose no health risks, but they will contaminate surfaces and food with the waste they leave behind. Red Imported Fire Ants The warriors of the ant world, Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA or just Fire Ants), are an extremely aggressive species and are known for their burning sting that hurts quite a bit. RIFA are found in almost every client; they are adaptable and intelligent. Their mounds are easily noticeable and should be avoided by anyone who isn't a pro at bug extermination. Their intelligence level is unmatched in the ant world, and when they notice a rise in moisture or water, they curl up together in a tight ball and will float, protecting the Queen and their young. RIFA are a dark reddish-brown and has a segmented, oval shape with or without wings, six legs, and antennae. They build their nests outdoors in soil, occasionally indoors, but prefer moist soil for their mounds, and their go-to sustenance is the vegetation around them. Are Ants Good for Anything? By destroying decaying or moldy wood and vegetation, ants help the environment. The problem is that they reproduce so quickly and move into areas, such as homes, that they become pests and are eradicated on site. Out in nature, in their natural habitats, ants are essential to our ecosystem. Social Structures of Ant Colonies All ants have a social caste system consisting of the Queen(s); some species have multiple Queens, the reproductive males whose job is only to mate with the emerging Queens, dying shortly after, and the female workers who, well, do the work. How Do You Get Rid of Ants? There are several over-the-counter remedies to get rid of ants that often work short-term. However, to get to the heart of a colony, you need more robust, commercialized chemicals that a trained exterminator should only wield for long-lasting pest control. Check out the link below for more information! https://www.pestworldforkids.org/pest-guide/ants/ All information was extracted from Pest World for Kids; all credit for research and information accumulation should go to them.

Meet the Bug The Subterranean Termite, or Reticulitermes Coptotermes ( Formosan ), is the largest concentration of termite species in the United States and can be found in all 50 states except Alaska due to its frigid climate. Termites are more commonly found in the warmer southern states and are the most destructive of wood-loving pests, nesting in the soil and then attacking wood structures from the base up. Subterranean Termites (and most species) feast on and attack wood and wood-built structures. Wood is their primary source of nutrients and food, and they will build tubes or protective shelters that will go around any obstacle in their way, funneling straight to the source of wood in the ground around them. Infestations are generally brought on by the homeowner/renter, creating the perfect environment to incubate the termite population; a warm and moist area is preferred. It is estimated that Subterranean Termites cause around 1 - 7 billion dollars in damages each year, depending on the area. However, it is thought that most damages and costs associated go unreported, meaning the number could be even more vast than we are aware. Are Termites Good for Anything? Like spiders, termites have their uses in our world, but controlling and isolating any insect is near impossible. When left to their natural habitats, termites will target and destroy dead or decaying (dying) plant-based elements, such as wood, ridding the soil of the toxicity of these materials. Termites play an essential role in the nutrient cycle. Social Structure of a Termite Colony Termites are an extremely social species that live in organized colonies. Each termite has its place and job within the colony caste system, and their physical appearance represents this caste. There are three main castes within a termite colony: Workers, Soldiers, and Reproductives (who may or may not have wings). Termites vs. Ants Many people confuse termites and ants, as they have a similar look at first glance. However, when studying the two insects side-by-side, one would note that winged termites have equal wings, whereas winged ants have unequally sized wings. In addition, an ant's body is also tapered in more at the "waist," whereas a termite's is typically devoid of tapering. How Do You Get Rid of a Subterranean Termite Infestation? New construction builders often employ tactics that will severely reduce the possibility of an infestation by applying termite pesticides to the ground during the initial construction phases. It is advised to homeowners or property managers to have a local pest control company come out periodically to maintain a pest-free location. In the case of an infestation in an older home, a licensed and skilled pest control company will send a technician out to apply commercial strength insecticide to the entirety of the building, concentrating on the areas where the termite population is most substantial. This should effectively reduce and hopefully eradicate the infestation. Thank you for reading our blog, for more information on Subterranean Termites, please click the link below. https://www.srs.fs.usda.gov/pubs/misc/misc_hg064.pdf All summarized information found in this blog post came directly from the United States Department of Agriculture; all credit is given to them.

Yellow jackets are a type of wasp that are common in Arkansas and can be aggressive when their nest is disturbed. Since they tend to build their nests partially underground, we recommend that you inspect your yard for these nests, especially if you have children and pets. Learn the signs to identify their nests as well as prevention tips to keep your family and pets safe. How to Spot a Yellow Jacket Nest Here are some tips on how spot a wasp nest in or around your property: Look for aerial nests: Yellow jackets often build their nests hanging from the eaves of houses or garages, trees, or electric or light poles. This is one of the most obvious signs of having wasps. Check the ground: Yellow jackets tend to build nests partially underground, usually in old gopher holes, wood piles, and dense vegetation. Walk your property, looking for holes, as well as other ground areas where nests might exist. If you see yellow jackets flying near such areas, or a large number of yellow jackets crawling around protecting a certain area, you’ve probably found a nest. Observe their flight pattern: Yellow jackets usually fly in a straight line rather than flying in curves or circles. Stand still and look across an area of yard that is in full, bright sun. Yellow jackets tend to zip quickly by on a straight path. Use bait: You can try to locate the nest by placing a piece of meat on the ground and waiting for a yellow jacket to take a piece. They do not fly far from their nest, so if you see one, it is likely that the nest is nearby. Tips to Deter Yellow Jackets To prevent yellow jackets from becoming a nuisance in your yard or home, here are some effective methods: Locate and remove the nest: If you have a yellow jacket nest on your property, it's important to locate and remove it. This is best done by calling a professional pest control service, as they have the expertise and equipment to handle the situation safely. Prevent with peppermint oil: Yellow jackets are repelled by the smell of peppermint oil. You can create a natural deterrent by mixing peppermint oil with water and spraying it around areas where yellowjackets are likely to be present, such as garbage bins or outdoor dining areas. Maintain a clean yard: Yellow jackets are attracted to sugary sweets and sources of protein. To reduce their access to food, keep trash bins sealed and clean up outdoor spills promptly. Additionally, pick fruits from your garden as soon as they ripen or cover them to prevent yellow jackets from feeding on them. Avoid attracting yellow jackets: Yellow jackets are attracted to certain scents and colors. To minimize their presence, avoid wearing perfumes, sweet-smelling shampoos or other scented body care products. Also, refrain from wearing bright-colored clothing, particularly yellow, or floral patterns, as yellow jackets seem to be attracted to these colors. Use lure traps: Lure traps can be set up to discourage yellow jackets from foraging in your yard. These traps contain attractants that lure the insects away from your living areas. However, it's important to place the traps away from high-traffic areas to avoid attracting more yellow jackets. By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of yellow jackets becoming a problem in your yard or home. However, if you spot or suspect a yellow jacket nest, it's best to call a professional pest removal company to handle it. They’ll know how to find the nest and exactly how to treat it to keep you and your home safe. Learn more about yellow jackets, bees and hornets here .

It’s better to be able to identify what is buzzing around your yard rather than finding out the hard way – ouch! Learn the key differences between yellow jackets and honey bees so you can identify and deal with these insects appropriately. Yellow Jackets Black and bright yellow Shiny, hairless and have distinctive wasp-like waist Do not make honey Feeds on insects, fruit, sugars and meats Legs hang down when flying Helps humans by eating other insects Will sting if provoked or threatened Can sting repeatedly Often nests in the ground Can be controlled by a pest control professional Honey Bees Amber/brown and a duller yellow Are fatter and look fuzzy Make honey Feeds mostly on flowers Legs are usually hidden when flying Helps humans by pollinating plants Will sting if swatted or stepped on Stings only once Doesn’t nest in the ground Should be removed by a beekeeper In summary, yellow jackets and honey bees differ in their physical appearance, nesting habits, behavior, size, and coloring. Honey bees are generally more gentle and less aggressive, while yellow jackets are known for their aggressive behavior and predatory nature. Understanding these differences can help in identifying and dealing with these insects buzzing around your home or property. Learn more about our treatment for yellow jackets, bees and hornets here .

Signs of a Spider Infestation Common signs of a spider problem include: Spider webs: One of the most common signs of a spider infestation is the presence of spider webs. These webs can be found in corners, along ceiling beams, chandeliers, and other hard-to-reach areas. Egg sacs: Spider egg sacs are another indication of a potential spider infestation. These sacs are usually found within or near spider webs and can contain numerous spider eggs. Live or dead spiders: Spotting live or dead spiders in your home is a clear sign of a spider infestation. If you consistently come across spiders in various areas of your house, it may indicate a larger infestation. Increased spider activity: If you notice an increase in spider sightings, such as seeing more spiders than usual or encountering them frequently, it could be a sign of a spider infestation. Spider Infestation Prevention Tips To prevent a spider infestation, you can take the following steps: Clean regularly: Spiders are less likely to inhabit clean homes with fewer hiding places. Sweep down or vacuum up spider webs and egg sacs whenever you see them. Keep your home tidy and free of clutter, as spiders like to hide in piles of old magazines, dirty clothes and other items that provide cover. Seal entry points: Close off potential entry points for spiders by sealing cracks and crevices in your home. Use caulk to seal gaps around doors, windows, wires, cables and faucets. Patch holes in door or window screens, and make sure your vents and chimney are covered with insect-proof screens. Remove outdoor hiding spots: Spiders can enter your home from the outside. Move piles of leaves, grass clippings, vegetation, compost or woodpiles away from the exterior of your house. Trim bushes, trees and shrubs so that they are several feet away from the siding of your home. By reducing outdoor hiding spots, you can prevent spiders from finding their way indoors. Use natural deterrents: There are several natural substances that spiders dislike and can be used as deterrents. Some options include: Vinegar: Fill a spray bottle with half white vinegar and half water. Spray this mixture in corners, cracks, and crevices to ward off spiders. Be careful to avoid varnished surfaces, as vinegar can cause damage. Essential oils: Spiders are repelled by certain essential oils, such as peppermint, tea tree, and lavender. Dilute a few drops of these oils in water and spray the mixture in areas where spiders are likely to be present. Eliminate other pests: Spiders are attracted to places with abundant insect prey. Take measures to control other pests in your home, such as ants, roaches and flies. Keep food stored in tightly sealed containers and address any other insect problems you may have. By reducing the food source for spiders, you can discourage their presence. Consider professional help: If you have a severe spider infestation or are unsure how to effectively prevent spiders, it may be beneficial to consult with a professional pest control service. They can provide expert advice and assistance in addressing the issue. It's important to note that the presence of a few spiders in your home is normal and not necessarily indicative of an infestation. However, if you observe multiple signs mentioned above or have concerns about a potential infestation, it may be wise to seek professional pest control assistance to assess and address the situation. Learn more about spider control here .

Trying to control fleas without professional help can pose several risks, including: Ineffectiveness: Over-the-counter flea control products may not be effective in eliminating a flea infestation. Fleas can develop resistance to certain products, and some products may not be strong enough to kill all fleas and their eggs. Health risks: Fleas do not pose a direct health risk to humans, but their bites can cause intense itching and irritation that can lead to infection. Fleas can also exacerbate allergies and asthma in some people. Misuse of pesticides: Misuse of pesticides can be dangerous and can lead to health risks for you, your family, and your pets. Overuse or misuse of pesticides can also lead to pesticide resistance in fleas and other pests. Reinfestation: Without proper treatment, fleas can quickly reproduce and reinfest your home. Fleas can lay up to 50 eggs per day, and their eggs can hatch in as little as two days. Wasted time and money: Trying to control fleas without professional help can be time-consuming and expensive. If over-the-counter products are not effective, you may end up spending more money on multiple products and treatments. It is important to consider the risks of DIY flea control. With the help of a pest control professional, you can receive effective treatment and ensure that the products used are safe for you, your family and your pets. A professional can also provide preventative measures to help prevent future flea infestations. Learn more about fleas and treatment here .

Arkansas definitely has its share of spiders. Here are the most common types of spiders known to invade homes and buildings in our state: Black Widow The most venomous spider in Arkansas and is probably the most popular and recognizable spider in the world due to its shiny black color and red hourglass-shaped mark. Brown Recluse Another poisonous spider native to Arkansas. Prefer dimly lit locations, like dark corners in a basement, closets, cluttered areas or inside shoes and clothing. Common House Spider Commonly found in homes, buildings and garages throughout the state. Beneficial by eating other small insects and pests in your house like flies, ants and mosquitos. Daddy Long Legs Are characterized by having extremely long, skinny legs and a small body. Known for hanging around in dark, damp places like basements, cellars and attics. Fortunately, their fangs are too short to bite humans. It's important to note that while some of these spiders are venomous, they are not typically aggressive and will only bite if they feel threatened. If you are concerned about a spider infestation or have been bitten by a spider, it is recommended to seek professional pest control assistance or medical attention if necessary. Learn more about our spider control services .

Crawl space vents serve two significant purposes. They allow outside air to circulate under the floor in summer to prevent moisture buildup that encourages mildew and rot. And in the winter, when the air is drier, the vents are closed to reduce the chance that the pipes in the crawl space might freeze. When these crawl space vents are not operating properly, your home is at risk of the following: High humidity and water damage: Open crawl space vents can introduce humid air under the home, which can be absorbed by wooden structures such as floor joists, causing them to soften and rot over time, leading to sagging or uneven floors inside the home. Mold growth: Open crawl space vents can allow moist outside air to enter and cause mold growth. Structural instability: Moisture and mold can weaken the structural integrity of the home. Pest invasion: Open crawl space vents can provide easy access for insects and pests, especially during cold weather. Energy loss: Open crawl space vents can lead to increased energy bills. Corrosion, rusting, and wood rot: Open crawl space vents can promote corrosion, rusting, and wood rot. Open crawl space vents can cause a variety of problems as listed above. Properly operating crawl space vents were once believed to be necessary, but there is now evidence to support the benefits of sealing, closing, or eliminating them in conjunction with a crawl space vapor barrier. But if your home has them, routine inspection and maintenance should be performed. For evaluation and repair of your crawl space and vents, contact a professional with expertise. Learn more about our ventilation services .