Seasonal Pest Control Tips for Fall: Keep Rodents, Cockroaches, and Spiders Out of Your Home

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When homeowners see swarms of flying insects around their homes, they often assume the worst: termites. However, flying ants (usually carpenter ants in their winged form) can also appear in large numbers, leading to confusion. While both types of insects may look similar, they have key differences that affect the damage they can cause to your home. In this guide, we’ll compare flying ants and termites, helping you understand how to identify them, their behaviors, and the best ways to prevent and control them. Understanding the Difference: Flying Ants vs. Termites Biological Classification Flying Ants belong to the order Hymenoptera (related to bees and wasps) and the family Formicidae. Carpenter ants are a common species that develop wings during their reproductive stage. Termites belong to the order Blattodea (related to cockroaches). Previously, they were in the Isoptera order. Behavioral Differences Colony & Nesting: Termites live in hidden colonies, feeding on wood 24/7. Carpenter ants nest in moist wood but do not eat it; they tunnel through it. Feeding Habits: Termites consume wood and cellulose materials, leading to structural damage. Carpenter ants are omnivores, feeding on sugars, proteins, and insects. Swarming Seasons: Termites swarm in spring, often after rain. Flying ants typically swarm in late spring to early summer. Signs of Flying Ant Infestation Large black or dark brown ants seen indoors (especially at night) Small piles of coarse sawdust (frass) near wooden structures Hollow-sounding or weakened wood Ant trails leading from wood to food sources Signs of Termite Infestation Mud tubes on walls or foundations (subterranean termites) Hollow or blistered wood with maze-like tunnels Piles of small, equal-sized wings near windows or doors Professional termite control is the best solution if you notice signs of a severe infestation. Duncan Exterminating serves Gainesville and Dawsonville with expert identification and treatment for both flying ants and termites. Whether you need preventative measures or targeted treatments, we can help protect your home from costly damage. Schedule Your Inspection Today! Contact Duncan Exterminating for a professional pest assessment and customized treatment plan. Early detection and intervention can save you thousands in repairs! Physical Differences

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Spring showers bring more than just flowers; they also increase insect activity. If you've ever noticed an uptick in pests right after a heavy rain, you're not alone. Rain can disrupt insect habitats, forcing them to seek shelter, food, and dry ground—often inside homes and businesses. Below, we explore why bugs invade your home after rain and what you can do to keep them out. Why Rain Increases Bug Activity 1. Flooded Nests and Habitats Many insects, like ants, cockroaches, and termites, build their nests in soil or underground tunnels. Heavy rains flood these nests, forcing the pests to relocate to higher, drier ground—like your home. 2. Increased Humidity Certain pests thrive in moist environments. Mosquitoes, silverfish, centipedes, and mold mites multiply when humidity levels rise. Rain increases indoor humidity, making basements, bathrooms, and attics attractive to these pests. 3. Food Sources Are Washed Away Rain disrupts insects’ natural food sources by washing away plant nectar, rotting fruit, and other organic matter. Ants, flies, and roaches may enter homes searching for alternative food sources. 4. Breeding Opportunities for Mosquitoes Standing water left by rain creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Even small amounts of water (in clogged gutters, birdbaths, or potted plants) can lead to rapid mosquito infestations. 5. Disrupted Chemical Barriers If you’ve applied pesticides or repellents around your home, heavy rain may wash them away. This leaves your home more vulnerable to pests until treatments are reapplied. Common Pests That Invade Homes After Rain Ants – Seeking dry shelter and food. Cockroaches – Looking for warmth and moisture. Mosquitoes – Breeding in standing water. Termites – More active in damp wood after rain. Spiders – Hunting other insects that have entered your home. Silverfish & Centipedes – Attracted to moisture-rich areas. Earwigs – Seeking dry refuge from flooded soil. How to Prevent Bugs from Entering After Rain ✔ Seal Cracks & Entry Points Inspect windows, doors, and foundation cracks. Apply caulk and weather stripping where needed. ✔ Reduce Moisture Indoors Use dehumidifiers in basements and bathrooms. Fix leaks and improve ventilation. ✔ Eliminate Standing Water Empty outdoor containers that collect rainwater. Clean gutters and drains regularly. ✔ Maintain Your Yard Keep shrubs, bushes, and mulch away from the foundation. Remove debris and damp wood that attract pests. When to Call a Professional If you’re noticing persistent infestations after rain, it might be time to contact Duncan Exterminating. Our local pest control experts can: Identify entry points Apply long-lasting treatments Offer customized pest prevention plans Rain doesn’t just affect your outdoor plans—it can also drive pests straight into your home. Understanding how weather influences pest behavior and taking proactive steps can keep your home bug-free this spring!

When it comes to pest control, misinformation is everywhere. From old wives' tales to trendy DIY hacks, homeowners are often left wondering what’s true and what’s just wishful thinking. Unfortunately, falling for these pest control myths can lead to more significant problems, from wasted time and money to worsening infestations. At Duncan Exterminating, we’ve heard it all regarding pest misconceptions. In this blog, we’re busting some of the most common pest control myths so you can make informed decisions about protecting your home. Let’s dive in! Myth #1: "If My Home Is Clean, I Won’t Get Pests." The Truth: While keeping your home clean helps prevent pests, it’s not foolproof. Pests like cockroaches, ants, and rodents are incredibly resourceful and can invade even the tidiest homes. They’re usually attracted to warmth, moisture, and shelter—things every home has, regardless of cleanliness. For instance: Cockroaches can survive on tiny crumbs or non-food items like soap and glue. Rodents are expert climbers who can squeeze through small gaps or cracks, especially when looking for warmth in colder months. Pro Tip: Maintaining cleanliness helps reduce food and water sources, but professional pest control is essential to keep pests out long-term. Myth #2: "DIY Pest Control Works Just as Well as Professional Services." The Truth: DIY pest control offers temporary relief but rarely solves the underlying problem. Over-the-counter sprays and traps often fail to address hidden nests or colonies. Why DIY falls short: Most products only kill adult pests, leaving eggs and larvae untouched. Misidentifying a pest could lead to ineffective treatments. Pests may develop resistance to some DIY solutions over time. At Duncan Exterminating, we use advanced techniques and products designed to safely and effectively target pests at every stage of their lifecycle. Myth #3: "Pests Die-Off in the Winter, So I Don’t Need Pest Control." The Truth: While pests like mosquitoes slow down during winter, many others—such as rodents, spiders, and cockroaches—actively seek shelter indoors when it’s cold. Winter pests to watch for: Rodents: Mice and rats often move inside, where they can damage wiring, insulation, and food storage. Spiders: Certain species become more active indoors, hunting for insects. Cockroaches: These pests thrive in warm, dark areas like basements and kitchens, regardless of the season. Year-round pest control services from Duncan ensure your home stays protected no matter the time of year. Myth #4: "Bed Bugs Only Infest Dirty Hotels or Homes." The Truth: Bed bugs don’t care how clean or dirty a space is—they’re equal-opportunity invaders. These pests often travel on luggage, clothing, or used furniture, making them a risk for anyone. Signs of bed bugs: Small, reddish bites on your skin. Tiny black spots (fecal matter) on mattresses or furniture. Shed skins or live bugs near bedding seams or upholstery. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, professional treatment is the only way to completely eradicate them. Myth #5: "Cheese Is the Best Bait for Trapping Mice." The Truth: Despite what cartoons have led us to believe, cheese isn’t the best bait for catching mice. Rodents prefer high-protein foods like peanut butter, seeds, or even chocolate. Why cheese isn’t ideal: It dries out quickly and loses its scent. It’s less attractive to rodents compared to other options. At Duncan Exterminating, we use proven trapping and baiting methods to eliminate rodents effectively. Myth #6: "One Treatment Will Solve My Pest Problem Forever." The Truth: Pest control isn’t a one-time fix. Pests are persistent; factors like weather, nearby infestations, and home maintenance can cause recurring issues. Regular treatments and inspections are essential for long-term protection. Our quarterly pest control program protects your home against common pests and prevents their return. Myth #7: "All Pests Are Harmful to Humans." The Truth: Not all pests are dangerous. For example, most spiders are harmless and help control other insect populations. However, pests like termites, cockroaches, and rodents can cause damage to your home and health. When in doubt, it’s best to consult a professional to determine whether treatment is necessary. Why Professional Pest Control Matters Debunking these myths highlights one important point: pest control is most effective when left to the professionals. At Duncan Exterminating, we understand the unique challenges homeowners in Gainesville and Dawsonville, GA, face, and we’re here to help. Here’s what we offer: Accurate Identification: We identify the pest correctly and create a customized treatment plan. Safe and Effective Solutions: Our treatments eliminate pests while keeping your family and pets safe. Ongoing Protection: Our quarterly pest control program ensures your home stays protected year-round. Specialized Services: We tackle even the most challenging infestations from termites to German cockroaches. Contact Duncan Exterminating Today! If you’ve been relying on pest control myths or DIY solutions, it’s time to switch to a trusted solution. Duncan Exterminating has proudly served Gainesville, Dawsonville, Cumming, and the surrounding communities since 1981. Whether you’re dealing with a current infestation or want to prevent future problems, we’re here to help. Call Duncan Exterminating today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our pest control programs. Don’t let pests take over—let us help you reclaim your home!

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As temperatures fall, it’s easy to assume pests won’t be an issue. However, winter doesn’t necessarily mean a pest-free season. Many pests seek warmth and shelter indoors during colder months, often making homes their refuge. Identifying common winter pests and understanding how to manage them is key to avoiding infestations. With decades of service in Gainesville, Dawsonville, and surrounding areas in north Georgia, Duncan Exterminating provides expert solutions to keep homes protected year-round. Why Pests Are a Problem in Winter While some pests are less active in winter, others stay active by moving indoors. Warmth, food, and shelter make homes an attractive retreat. Entry points like cracks, crevices, or poorly sealed windows and doors allow easy access, leading to unwanted visitors in basements, attics, and kitchens. Common Winter Pests In Georgia 1. Rodents (Mice and Rats) Rodents seek warmth and can squeeze through tiny openings to enter homes. Signs of an infestation include droppings, gnawed materials, and scratching noises at night. Rodents damage insulation and wiring and can spread diseases, making prompt intervention critical. 2. Cockroaches Cockroaches like the American cockroach thrive in warm, humid indoor spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. They pose serious health risks by contaminating food and triggering allergies. 3. Spiders Species like the brown recluse and black widow, common in Gainesville, can pose health risks due to their venomous bites. These spiders often inhabit dark, undisturbed areas in homes. 4. Termites Though less visible during winter, termites can remain active in heated structures. Subterranean termites, in particular, can cause significant structural damage if not detected early. Signs include discarded wings, mud tubes, and hollow-sounding wood. 5. Ants Some ants, like odorous house ants, invade homes during winter in search of food. They are often attracted to sugary or greasy items and nest in walls or near heat sources. 6. Bed Bugs Bed bugs don’t hibernate in winter and can enter homes via luggage, furniture, or holiday decorations. They hide in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas, feeding on humans at night. Signs of a Potential Infestation Watch for these indicators of winter pest problems: Unusual noises, like scratching or scurrying, in walls or ceilings. Droppings, nests, or chew marks in hidden areas. Damaged food packaging or contamination in stored items. Visible pests near entry points like windows or doors. Structural damage, such as holes in wood or insulation. Preventive Tips to Protect Your Home Prevent winter pests by addressing entry points and removing attractants: Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal gaps around windows, doors, and utility pipes, focusing on the foundation and roofline. Proper Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up crumbs or spills. Do not leave pet food out overnight. Control Moisture: Use dehumidifiers in damp areas and fix leaks to prevent attracting moisture-loving pests like termites. Regular Cleaning: Declutter and clean areas where pests may hide, such as attics and basements. Maintain Landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs away from your home’s exterior and store firewood away from the structure to reduce pest access points. By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps, you can keep your home pest-free throughout winter. Contact Duncan Exterminating to start living pest-free!

The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and travel. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when bed bugs can hitch a ride into your home. At Duncan Exterminating, we understand how disruptive a bed bug infestation can be–even one is enough to make most people squeamish. To help you enjoy a stress-free holiday season, we’ve compiled five tips to protect your Gainesville and Dawsonville home from these unwelcome guests. 5 Tips For Keeping Bed Bugs Away This Holiday Season 1. Stay Alert While Traveling Many holiday trips involve staying in hotels, visiting family, or hosting out-of-town guests. Bed bugs are notorious travelers, easily transferring from one location to another via luggage, clothing, or personal items. Tips to Keep Bed Bugs Away: Inspect Hotel Rooms: Before settling in, inspect your area for signs of bed bugs. Check the seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and upholstered furniture for dark spots, shed skins, or live bugs. Use Luggage Stands: Keep your suitcase off the bed and floor by using a luggage stand. This minimizes the chance of bugs crawling into your belongings. Seal Your Belongings: Pack clothes in resealable plastic bags to create an extra barrier against unwanted bed bugs. 2. Check and Protect Your Luggage After Traveling Once your trip is over, taking a few precautionary steps can help ensure you don’t accidentally bring home any unwanted guests. Steps to Follow: Unpack in a Safe Zone: Avoid unpacking in bedrooms or on furniture. Instead, use a garage, laundry room, or other easily sanitized area. Launder Immediately: Wash all clothes, even unworn items, in hot water and dry them on the highest heat setting. Heat is a proven method for killing bed bugs and their eggs. Vacuum Your Suitcase: Use a vacuum to clean your luggage thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and pockets. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately in an outdoor trash can. Consider Luggage Covers: Investing in bed bug-proof luggage covers can provide an added layer of protection during your travels. 3. Be Cautious When Hosting Guests Holiday gatherings often mean opening your home to friends and family. While it’s a season of sharing, bed bugs are one thing you don’t want to share. Best Practices for Hosts: Provide a Clear Storage Area: Encourage guests to keep luggage off beds and couches by offering a designated space for their belongings. Inspect Linens After Guests Leave: Inspect guest beds and furniture once your visitors depart for signs of bed bugs. Vacuum Common Areas: Thoroughly vacuum any spaces where guests stay. Pay close attention to the seams of furniture and baseboards. 4. Shop Smart During the Holidays Bed bugs can also hitch a ride on secondhand or new items, especially furniture or clothing purchased from thrift stores, yard sales, or even major retailers. Prevention Tips: Inspect Secondhand Items: Carefully examine used furniture, clothing, and other items for signs of bed bugs before bringing them into your home. Sanitize New Purchases: Wash new clothes in hot water and vacuum furniture to eliminate potential unwanted holiday pests. 5. Know the Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation Despite your best efforts, it’s important to recognize the early signs of a bed bug problem. Catching an infestation early makes treatment more manageable. Key Indicators: Small, rust-colored spots on sheets or mattresses Shed skins or tiny eggs in furniture seams Red, itchy bites on exposed skin, often in a linear pattern When to Call Your Local Pest Control Experts If you suspect a bed bug problem in your home, don’t wait. Duncan Exterminating identifies and treats bed bug infestations with effective solutions. Our experienced team ensures your home remains a sanctuary during the holiday season. Why Choose Us? Locally trusted pest control experts Comprehensive bed bug inspections and treatments Friendly and reliable service tailored to your needs Enjoy a Bed Bug-Free Holiday The holidays are meant for making memories, not worrying about pests. Follow these tips to protect your home, and if you need a hand, call Duncan Exterminating. We’re here to help you enjoy the season stress-free. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our bed bug prevention services. Here’s to a happy, pest-free holiday season!