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Spiders are unique animals that come in all colors and sizes and play a beneficial role in the functioning of our ecosystem. While they are cherished for their insect-hunting skills, people usually don’t like to find them inside their homes. Most spiders in Texas are harmless and would rather run away than attract a human, but certain species can prove harmful, especially to small children, elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and people prone to allergic reactions. 

If you or your loved one fall into any of these categories, it’s best to take no risks and start eradicating before it’s too late. The best way to make sure you’ve seen the last spider hanging from your wall is to get in touch with one of the best spider control companies in Houston and let professionals take care of the arachnid infestation for you. In today’s post, we’ll help you with 12 solutions you can try to fight off spider invasion while you’re waiting for experts to arrive and take over.

How do you get rid of spiders and keep them gone?

1. Keep your home clean

A clean home is less attractive to spiders. Regularly vacuum corners, under furniture, and other secluded spots where spiders may build webs. Don’t forget areas like window sills and ceiling corners.

2. Seal up your home

Check windows, doors, and walls for cracks and gaps. Spiders can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces, so make sure to seal any openings to prevent their entry.

3. Reduce outdoor lighting

Lights attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. If possible, minimize the use of outdoor lights or switch to yellow sodium vapor lights, which are less attractive to bugs.

4. Peppermint oil

Spiders detest the smell of peppermint. Mix a few drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle and spray around windows, doors, and other entry points.

5. Vinegar

Like peppermint, spiders aren’t fans of vinegar. A solution of equal parts white vinegar and water can be sprayed in areas where spiders frequent.

6. Limit food sources

A house full of other small insects will be a paradise for spiders. Regularly remove cobwebs, ensure your screens are free from holes, and try to keep other pests under control.

7. Declutter

Spiders love hiding in clutter. Reduce their potential habitats by keeping your home tidy. This includes areas like garages, basements, and attics.

8. Citrus peels

Rubbing citrus peels on windowsills, bookshelves, and other areas can deter spiders. The strong scent of citrus is a natural spider repellent.

9. Essential oils

Apart from peppermint, citruses, and vinegar, spiders are also repelled by essential oils of eucalyptus, tea tree, and lavender. Consider using these as natural deterrents in your home.

10. Hedge apples (Osage oranges)

Some people believe placing these fruits around the home during the fall can repel spiders. While scientific evidence is limited, it might be worth a try if they’re available in your area.

11. Diatomaceous earth

This is a natural insect killer and can be effective against spiders. Sprinkle it around areas where spiders are common. Just ensure you’re using food-grade diatomaceous earth and keep it away from areas frequented by pets and children.

12. Limit dense vegetation

Spiders love to hide in dense vegetation near the home. Trim plants, shrubs, and trees that touch your house to limit spiders’ access.

How can I find one of the leading spider control companies in Houston, TX?

Whether you want experts to explain the causes of spider invasion, introduce different spider species you can find in Texas, or instruct you how not to behave around spiders, Naturalcare Pest Control Services offers a combination of experience and expertise that will help you deal with pests in a natural way. 

Make the most of your day and drop by the Museum of Fine Arts (MFAH) while our team sprays all the corners of your living space and makes sure that all the hiding spaces are taken care of. Our solutions will eliminate the pests while being harmless for your kids, pets, plants, and the natural surroundings. Don’t risk a bite, contact us today!

Even though spiders might give us the creeps, these fascinating creatures play an important role in our local ecosystems. While spiders can sometimes be a welcome guest that keeps pests like mosquitoes and flies at bay, most people don’t want to share their home with these creatures. The biggest issue people have with spiders is fear of bites and adverse reactions to their venom, but out of all the spider species in Texas only two are considered dangerous to humans.

If you’re starting to see more and more eight-legged guests around the house, maybe the time is right for you to call on spider control in Houston and let arachnid extermination experts do a professional job. Whether it’s the presence of other pests, structural issues, or environmental factors and conditions, it’s important to understand the root causes of spider infestation to address the issue, stay safe, and reclaim your living space.

What is the cause of spiders in the house? 

1. Abundant food source

Spiders flock to places where there’s plenty to eat. If your home has a lot of other pests, like flies, mosquitoes, or moths, it’s a virtual buffet for spiders.

2. Easy access points

Spiders can squeeze through tiny gaps and cracks. Broken window screens, gaps around doors, or cracks in the foundation can all serve as entry points.

3. Warmth and shelter

As the weather turns colder, spiders look for warm places to hide. Your home offers a cozy retreat from the outside elements where they can find a safe spot.

4. Available water sources

Like all living creatures, spiders need water. Leaky faucets, pipes, or other consistent water sources can serve as a magnet to them.

5. Clutter

A cluttered home provides plenty of hiding spots for spiders. Boxes, piles of clothes, or any undisturbed nooks and crannies can become a spider’s haven.

6. Outdoor lighting

Lights attract insects, which in turn lure spiders. If you have bright outdoor lights that stay on for extended periods, they might be drawing spiders to your home.

7. Unmaintained exterior

If you have dense vegetation, shrubs, or trees touching your house, they can serve as a bridge for spiders to enter your home.

8. General house conditions

Homes with basements or crawl spaces tend to attract spiders due to the dark, moist environment. Similarly, attics that are rarely cleaned can also become spider sanctuaries.

9. Natural habitats

If your home is near a field, forest, or other natural spider habitats, it’s more likely you’ll have spiders as regular visitors.

10. Seasonal changes

Some spider species breed during specific times of the year. If you notice an influx of spiders, it might be their breeding season.

Which company should be my #1 choice for spider control in Houston, TX, and the vicinity?

Now that you know why spiders may be choosing your home for shelter, you should learn more about the types of spiders found in Huston, how you shouldn’t act when you find one in your house, and ultimately, how you can get rid of them for once and for all.

As a family- and pet-friendly company with almost a decade of experience in helping Texans keep the critters out of their homes, Naturalcare Pest Control Services excels in offering green integrated pest management solutions.

Use the opportunity to take your toddlers on a memorable visit to the Downtown Aquarium while we apply our natural touch to keep invasive pests at bay. Reach out to us and we’ll eliminate your source of frustration while being harmless to your pets and plants. Call us today!

While we often spot ants marching boldly across our kitchen counters or garden patios, these industrious and methodical insects sometimes choose a stealthier approach, establishing colonies within our home’s walls. Identifying hidden invasions early on is paramount for maintaining the home’s health and structural soundness and preventing any future problems from developing down the line in the kitchen. In today’s blog post, we will guide you through the subtle signs of ants dwelling behind the scenes and offer proven solutions from the playbook of professional ant control services in Houston to address the issue.

How do you know if ants are in the walls?

When ants invade your home, they don’t always march in a single line straight to your kitchen counter. Sometimes, they take a more covert route, building colonies within the walls of your house. Detecting and addressing ants in your walls can be a bit more challenging than a simple surface infestation.

Rustling noises

One of the most common and early signs of ants within your walls is the faint rustling or scratching noises they produce. Listening carefully, especially during quieter times of the day or night, might reveal their hidden presence. This sound is often more pronounced when the colony is active, usually at dusk or dawn.

Sawdust or soil piles

Carpenter ants, which burrow into wood, can leave behind small piles of sawdust. Similarly, other ant species might create tiny mounds of soil or debris as they excavate your walls. These deposits can often be found along baseboards or in corners of rooms.

Ant trails

While the main colony might be inside the wall, worker ants venture out for food. Observing consistent ant trails leading to and from a particular wall can be a tell-tale sign of an infestation.  If you spot a trail, try following it to determine its source and ultimate destination.

Damaged walls

Over time, the continuous activity of ants within walls can weaken wall structures. Look out for soft spots, cracks, or even tiny holes as indications. In severe cases, the paint or wallpaper may bubble up or peel due to the ants’ underlying activity.

How do I get rid of ants in my walls?

Detecting ant colonies early and adopting effective solutions can save you from more extensive damage and ensure a comfortable, ant-free home. Remember, while ants play a crucial role in our ecosystem, it’s essential to maintain boundaries between our living spaces and theirs.

Diatomaceous earth

This natural insect killer is an excellent option for ants. By sprinkling it around the suspected wall’s base or injecting it into crevices, you can target ants without using harsh chemicals.

Bait stations

Placing bait stations near the wall can help draw ants out. They will carry the bait back to their colony, effectively poisoning it from within.

Peppermint oil

Ants dislike the strong scent of peppermint. By applying peppermint oil around suspected areas, you can deter ants from further excavation and encourage them to relocate.

Seal entry points

Ensure all potential entry points, like cracks and crevices in the foundation, are sealed off. This not only prevents new ants from entering but also traps those inside, forcing them out of the home in search of food.

Professional pest control

If the infestation seems severe or widespread, it’s a good idea to consult with a pest control professional. They can provide a thorough assessment and use specialized treatments to effectively combat the issue.

Preventive measures

Once you’ve dealt with the immediate problem, consider long-term strategies. This includes ensuring your home is well-sealed, keeping food sources tightly covered, fixing any moisture issues, and routinely checking for signs of a re-infestation.

Who should I turn to when I need dependable ant control services in Houston, TX?

With top-notch equipment, a vetted workforce, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, Naturalcare has been making all the right moves and helping the good people of Houston get rid of stubborn pests within their homes and backyards for years. If you’re interested in learning more about these fascinating critters, we’ll gladly answer all your questions, including where ant colonies usually come from, what are the main causes of ant yard infestation, and how to permanently eradicate these insects.

Whether your home is located in Third Ward or on the outskirts of town, we are always ready to get into full gear and arrive at your doorstep in no time. Lean on our ample experience and time-tried approach to quickly restore the carefree coziness of your abode. Get in touch with us today!

Ants are one of the most remarkable creatures that inhabit our planet, known for their hard work, complex social structures, and communication skills. However, when they invade our yards and gardens, they usually become a nuisance and a source of frustration. Sometimes we end up calling on ant pest control in Houston only for them to come back in numbers.

Understanding the causes of ant yard infestations and the solutions to control them can help you get rid of the underlying issues that are driving the invasion in the first place. Unless you get to the bottom line of why ants prefer your backyard, you may be in for a long, and ultimately, losing battle with these amazing insects.

Why is my yard infested with ants?

While ants are fascinating creatures that play a role in the ecosystem, their infestation can become problematic in our yards. By understanding the causes of their invasion and adopting preventive measures, we can coexist with these industrious insects and enjoy our outdoor spaces.

Food sources

Just like any living creature, ants are in constant search of food. If your yard provides ample food sources, such as sweet sap-producing plants, rotting wood, or other insects, ants are likely to colonize the area. Additionally, if you often have picnics or eat your meals outdoors, leftover crumbs and spills can also attract these tiny scavengers.

Water sources

Standing water or consistently damp areas in a yard can be a magnet for ants, especially during dry seasons when water becomes scarce. Overwatering plants or having areas with poor drainage can inadvertently create the ideal conditions for ant settlements.

Safe shelter

Ants build colonies to shelter their queen and offspring. Loose soil, cracks in concrete, under stones, or near tree bases can be potential nesting sites for ant colonies. As they expand their colonies, they may even pave pathways or create visible mounds in certain parts of the yard.

Lack of natural predators

A decline in the population of natural predators like birds, frogs, or other insects can cause a surge in the ant population. When these predators are absent, ants can proliferate without fear, leading to larger and more numerous colonies.

How do I get rid of ants in my yard?

Maintain cleanliness

Regularly clean up food residues, fallen fruits, or any other waste in your yard. Ensure that your garbage bins are sealed tightly.

Fix water leaks

Any leaky outdoor faucets, pipes, or irrigation systems should be repaired to prevent standing water. Ensure good drainage in your yard so that water doesn’t accumulate in pockets.

Natural repellents

Some plants act as natural repellents to ants. Planting peppermint, tansy, or even common garden herbs like rosemary and sage can deter ants from settling in.

Diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural insect killer and is especially effective against ants. It causes dehydration in ants upon contact. Sprinkle it around areas where ant activity is high, but remember to reapply after rain.

Biological control

Introduce or encourage natural predators. Birds, certain beetles, and spiders feed on ants. Having a birdbath or placing bird feeders can attract more birds to your garden.

Bait stations

These are available at most gardening or home improvement stores. Ants are attracted to the bait, consume it, and carry it back to their nest, effectively poisoning the colony.

Boiling water

If you can locate the ant hill, pouring boiling water into it can exterminate a large number of ants instantly. However, this may not always kill the queen, and the colony might re-emerge.

Seal entry points

Regularly inspect your yard for ant hills or nests. Seal off any cracks or crevices in your yard’s pavement, walls, or foundation.

Seek professional help

If the infestation is severe, it might be time to call in the professionals. They have specialized treatments that can effectively deal with large ant colonies.

Where can I find a seasoned company that excels in ant pest control in Houston, TX? 

As one of the leading names in our field, Naturalcare Pest Control has quickly positioned itself as the go-to solution for people who want to get rid of different types of pests in the wider Houston area. With targeted treatments, vetted professionals, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, we are primed to help you get rid of ants once and for all, eliminate ant colonies from your walls, and help you understand why ants suddenly appear as if from nowhere. 

Whether your residence is located in Houston Heights or any other part of town, we’ll be there in a jiffy to eliminate the pests from your backyard and enable you to enjoy the full splendor of your cozy home. Let us stop pests in their tracks, call us today!

Dealing with ant invasions can seem like a never-ending war. This persistent challenge can turn even the tidiest of homes into battlegrounds. While ants might seem like tiny creatures, their presence can quickly become a major nuisance. Fortunately, there are several tried-and-true strategies that can help you bid farewell to the uninvited guests once and for all. In this article, we’ll delve into some effective methods for achieving permanent ant removal.

While DIY strategies can be effective, sometimes the battle against ants requires specialized knowledge and tools. In such cases, many homeowners turn to professional pest control for ants in Houston.  This is the most reliable solution for many who are facing a persistent ant infestation in their homes.

How do I get rid of ants permanently?

Achieving lasting freedom from ant infestations requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the immediate problem and the root causes. We’ve prepared five effective strategies that can help you get rid of ants permanently:

1. Seal all entry points

Prevention is key to managing all pest infestations, including ants. They typically enter your home through tiny cracks and openings in walls, floors, and windows. Inspect your property’s exterior carefully and seal any potential entry points using caulk or weatherstripping. By creating a solid defense barrier, you can significantly reduce the chances of new ant colonies finding their way in.

2. Maintain cleanliness

Ants are attracted to food and water sources. Keep your living spaces clean and make sure to pick up and clean any crumbs, spills, and food residue. Regularly sweep, mop, and wipe down surfaces to eliminate odors that might attract ants. Store food in airtight containers and promptly fix any leaks to eliminate moisture that ants seek.

3. Try natural repellents

Nature often provides us with solutions. Certain scents and substances act as natural ant repellents. You can try sprinkling cinnamon, coffee grounds, or even citrus peels near entry points to deter ants from entering. These natural barriers can disrupt their scent trails and discourage them from making their way into your home.

4. Borax-based baits

Foraging ants can unknowingly carry poison back to their colonies, effectively wiping them out. Create a borax-based ant bait by mixing equal parts of borax and powdered sugar. Place small amounts of this mixture in areas where you noticed ant activity. The sugar will attract them, and the borax will ultimately eliminate the colony once the ants bring it back to their nest.

5. Professional pest control

If you’re dealing with a particularly persistent infestation that seems to be beyond your control, it’s time to call in the experts. Professional pest control services have the knowledge and resources to identify the specific ant species and tailor their approach accordingly. They use targeted treatments that address the colony at its source, ensuring long-lasting results.

Ultimately, achieving permanent ant removal requires a combination of proactive measures, cleanliness, natural repellents, and sometimes professional assistance.

By following these strategies, you can reclaim your home and enjoy an ant-free environment. Remember, however, that consistency is key – regularly apply prevention methods and remain vigilant for any signs of ant activity. With determination and the right strategies, you can ensure your home remains an ant-free haven.

Where can I find efficient pest control for ants in Houston?

Our team of experienced professionals at Naturalcare Pest Control is equipped to tackle ant invasions head-on, using targeted treatments that get to the root of the problem. With our in-depth understanding of ant behavior and a track record of successful ant and other pest removal, we ensure that your home will remain an ant-free zone. We can help you determine if there’s an ant infestation inside your walls, or stop these tiny pests from disrupting your peace in the garden. 

Whether you live near Rice University or anywhere else in Houston, we can put an end to ant invasions, and help you enjoy a pest-free home. Get in touch with us today and experience the relief of a pest-free home firsthand.

The sight of ants suddenly invading your home can be perplexing and frustrating at the same time. Particularly if you did your best to maintain cleanliness, seal entry points, and follow all the preventative measures diligently. And yet these tiny invaders seem to appear out of nowhere. 

Understanding the reasons behind these unexpected infestations is key to effectively addressing the issue. Specialists with vast experience with Houston ant control will do their best to demystify the ant invasion in your home and explain the reasons that could make ants suddenly appear. You can reclaim your living space and enjoy a permanently pest free home.

Why do ants suddenly appear? 

Seasonal changes

Ants are highly attuned to environmental changes, particularly to temperature shifts or varying levels of humidity.

As the seasons transition, they might be seeking shelter, food, or more suitable nesting sites. Sudden temperature drops or rises can trigger ant colonies to venture indoors in search of more stable conditions.

Food scarcity

Ants are very resourceful foragers, and if their usual outdoor food sources become scarce due to factors like drought or changes in vegetation, they might invade your home in search of sustenance. Even the tiniest crumbs can be an appealing feast for an ant colony.

Reproduction & colonization

Ant colonies reproduce and split to form new colonies – this process is known as budding. During this phase, winged reproductive ants, often referred to as swarmers, are sent out to establish new colonies. Their sudden appearance can seem alarming, but it’s a natural part of their life cycle.

Scent trails

Ants are excellent navigators, relying heavily on pheromone scent trails to communicate and find their way back to food sources. If even a single ant finds a food supply in your home, it will lay down a scent trail for the rest to follow. This can naturally lead to a sudden influx of ants as they follow the trail to the source.

How can I find out where ants are coming from?

Ants have a knack for showing up unannounced, but figuring out their entry points is certainly a puzzle worth solving. Understanding where they’re coming from is a crucial step towards effective ant removal.

There are some practical methods that can help you unveil the mystery and put an end to those unwelcome ant visitors. However, figuring out where ants are coming from might require some patience and careful observation.

By following these methods and being persistent, you can track down their entry points and take targeted action to eliminate them. The more you understand their behavior, the better equipped you’ll be to maintain an ant-free home.

Follow the trail

Ants often leave behind visible trails of workers moving back and forth between their nest and a food source. If you spot a line of ants marching along, carefully observe their direction. This can point you to the general vicinity of their nest.

Watch at different times of the day

Ant activity varies throughout the day. Take the time to observe their movement patterns during different hours. This can help you pinpoint the times when ants are most active and potentially lead you to their entry points.

Look for nesting sites

Ants usually establish their nests in warm, hidden areas. Common nesting spots include cracks in walls, gaps in windows, or beneath flooring, and even outdoors in soil or debris. Inspect these areas carefully to try and locate their nests.

Use baiting techniques

Strategically place ant baits in areas where you suspect ant activity. Watch where they take the bait, as they’ll often carry it back to their nest. This can give you a valuable clue about the location of their nest.

Seal all entry points

As you observe ant activity, consider potential entry points. Seal any cracks or openings you find along their path. This can disrupt their access and force them to reveal alternative entryways.

Use talcum powder

Dusting talcum powder or chalk along ant trails can be a helpful trick. Ants won’t cross the powder, which can help you trace their paths and determine where they’re coming from.

Reach out to professionals

If your efforts to locate the ant source are unsuccessful or the infestation persists, consider consulting professional pest control services. Experienced technicians have the knowledge and tools to identify entry points and nests accurately.

Who can I rely on in Houston for ant control?

Figuring out ant behavior is a task that requires time and patients. If you have neither you can confidently rely on Naturalcare pest services to figure out the nesting sites and get rid of ants efficiently and permanently.

Whether you have an ant infestation in your home or if they’ve taken over your garden, you can rely on us to solve your problem. We’re available across the wider Houston area so you can reach out to us if you live near Hermann Park, or way across the city. Call us today and get rid of uninvited guests!