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Your Guide To Winter Pests

Your Guide To Winter Pests

by | Jul 5, 2024 | Blog, Pests

So, pests aren’t usually a problem in winter, right? Unfortunately not. Just like people, pests such as rodents, spiders, ants, cockroaches, and silverfish look for warm places to nest and hibernate. Continue reading to learn more about how to avoid these frustrating winter pests.

What questions will this article answer?

Why pests are a problem in winter

As the mercury plummets, the cold weather makes your home a warm and safe place to shelter from the harsh elements. With the ability to squeeze through tiny access points inside your home, pests such as rodents, spiders, ants, silverfish and cockroaches can find hiding spots to nest and breed. Before you know it, you could have an outbreak on your hands, unless you act fast!

Rodents

Rodent plagues have been dreaded for centuries, and these clever pests are famous for spreading diseases and contaminating clean places by carrying germs in their fur and droppings. With constantly growing teeth, they’ll happily chew through almost anything that they encounter, from electrical cables to walls, while raiding your kitchen pantry as you sleep!

Signs of a rodent infestation

  • You notice them running around, especially after dark
  • Dark brown to black droppings shaped like rice grains
  • Scurrying, scratching and squeaking sounds above your ceiling at night
  • A musty odour
  • Partially eaten food and crumbs scattered around the floor
  • Gnaw marks on walls, doors, timber, pipes, furniture and cables

Rodent treatment

We use physical rodent traps of different sizes, with larger ones for rats and smaller ones for mice, as well as rodenticide-laced baits for long-lasting rodent management.

For fast rodent control, speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

Spiders

Often found hiding in less frequented areas, spiders weave sticky cobwebs which are both messy and unhygienic, making housekeeping a hassle. Although most are harmless, some suburban spider species such as redback and funnel web spiders have venomous bites that you’ll definitely want to avoid.

How to spot a spider problem

  • You’re seeing more spiders crawling around than usual
  • There are spider webs visible on the ceilings, walls, and corners of rooms
  • You spot spider burrows in your yard; underneath soil or leaf or compost piles
  • You notice rounded egg sacs wrapped in webbing

Spider management

We use targeted insecticide spray and control dust sprinkled into gaps and crevices to treat spider problems quickly and effectively.

Ants

Though they are more commonly seen marching in summer, ants will seek shelter in warm places such as your home to hibernate in winter. From your benchtops to your rubbish bins and toilets, ants can spread disease and contaminate food and surfaces around your home when foraging for food. They’re also known for painful bites which can trigger allergies in both pets and people alike.

Spotting an ant infestation

  • You see many ants marching along well-defined trails
  • Look for mounds of raised dirt and soil with an entry point to an underground ant nest in your yard
  • Carpenter ants can tunnel through wooden structures, leaving signs of damage such as holes as well as discarded wood shavings on the floor
  • Fire ants cause damage to plants in your garden

Ant control

At Allstate, we apply ant insecticide spray and ant control dust to affected areas, as well as chemical baits for long-term treatment.

Cockroaches

Small, fast and highly adaptable to their environment ,cockroaches scavenge for food in both clean and unsanitary places, making them masters at spreading nasty germs and diseases. They’re known to cause illnesses such as gastroenteritis, diarrhoea, cholera and dysentery.

Telltale signs of a cockroach outbreak

  • You’re noticing more cockroaches scurrying around
  • Black granular droppings
  • Black-brown egg capsules
  • Moulted skins

Cockroach treatment

At Allstate, we use a combination of cockroach insecticide, gel baits and control dust, depending on the severity of your outbreak, to make sure the problem is treated as quickly as possible.

Protect your home from cockroaches. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Silverfish

With a diet that consists of starchy or saccharide-rich household items, silverfish are the worst houseguests you could have. From grains and cereals in your pantry to fabric items, paper, timber and upholstered furniture, silverfish can live up to six years by simply surviving on your precious belongings

Signs of a silverfish infestation

  • You spot silverfish around your home, particularly at night
  • You notice holes and damage to your clothes, furniture, haberdashery and paper-based products
  • Dark, round, peppercorn-like droppings
  • Moulted skins

Silverfish control

Our pest technicians will use pesticide sprays and fumigation for severe outbreaks , and apply control dust in hard to reach spaces such as wall cavities to effectively manage a silverfish problem.

DIY tips for preventing pest outbreaks this winter

Avoiding the nuisance of a pest outbreak when the mercury drops doesn’t have to be hard. We recommend taking the following simple steps to keep the pests out, and the heat inside this winter:

  • Reduce available food sources and hiding spots
  • Remove unnecessary clutter such as boxes, stacks of paper and laundry
  • Conduct regular yard maintenance by keeping plants well-trimmed and away from your house. Dispose of fallen fruit and remove pet waste and piles of organic matter
  • Keep food tightly stored away including pet food and water bowls
  • Keep the kitchen clean by wiping away spills, grease and food crumbs. Disinfect surfaces and clear sinks
  • Keep bins and rubbish tightly sealed with well-fitting lids
  • Inspect your home for potential entry points and seal them over with gap filler, waterproof sealants, caulk or expanding foam
  • Cover rainwater tanks and floor vents, install a chimney grate or cap
  • Repair leaking taps, pipes and drains as moisture attracts pests such as cockroaches
  • Diatomaceous earth is silica-based naturally occurring powder; sprinkled around the perimeter of your home, it is effective at physically deterring insects and spiders from entering

For effective winter pest control, choose Allstate

As pests can be a nuisance all year round, there’s sometimes no way to escape an outbreak, even in the depths of winter. However, Allstate is always here to help, no matter the season.

Since 1986, we’ve grown to become one of Adelaide’s largest locally-operated pest control providers.

Available 24/7 for urgent advice, we offer comprehensive pest assessments and innovative solutions for infestations of all sizes in commercial, residential and industrial settings. All our services are covered by competitive warranties and don’t forget to ask us about finance options.

With an emphasis on using treatments that are non-toxic to children, pets and the environment, we’ll safeguard your home from pests throughout winter and beyond.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

Silverfish Proof Your Kitchen and Bathrooms

Silverfish Proof Your Kitchen and Bathrooms

by | Jul 5, 2024 | Blog, Pests

With a life span of 6 years, an attraction to high moisture areas such as bathrooms, and an appetite for kitchen pantry staples, silverfish are certainly not ideal houseguests. In this Hivemind blog, we share our top 7 tips to help you keep silverfish away from your home for good.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are silverfish in my kitchen and bathrooms?

As their name suggests, silverfish are elongated, grey, gold or brown coloured insects with a characteristic scaly appearance and long antennae. Although they rarely grow beyond 2cm long, silverfish can survive without food for months on end, and live for up to 6 years.

However, these tough insects require one key factor to survive: humidity. In your home, this means that areas containing high moisture such as your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry make for ideal nesting places.

With an appetite for sugary, starchy and fabric-based items, silverfish can easily access a smorgasbord of food sources, not just from your kitchen and bathrooms, but all around your home.

What problems can silverfish cause?

While they are thankfully not known for spreading diseases, these creepy crawlies can still cause chaos and disruption in other ways. Here’s how:

Damage to your home

Silverfish will be just as happy raiding your kitchen pantry for grains, cereals, rice and pasta as they are chewing through fabric and paper items. This includes bathroom towels and mats, as well as clothing, photos, books, timber, and even wood-based musical instruments around your home.

Food contamination

For most of us, seeing silverfish crawling around sugary and starchy pantry staples makes them seem far less appetising, and certainly unfit for human consumption.

Allergies

Silverfish droppings and moulted skins can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms in some people.

For fast silverfish control, speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

How to tell if you have a silverfish outbreak

If you’re seeing any of the following signs, your home might be in the midst of a silverfish infestation:

Frequent sightings

If you see more silverfish scurrying around, especially in the evenings, you may have a big silverfish problem brewing.

Damaged clothing and furniture

Look for unexpected and unexplained tears, rips and holes in your clothes and fabric furniture, as well as paper-based items such as books or photos.

Droppings

Resembling very small, black peppercorns, silverfish droppings can sometimes be mistaken for dust.

Moulted skins

Typically shedding their outer skins around 30 times a year, you may notice an accumulation of these delicate, translucent layers discarded throughout your home.

How to prevent silverfish in your kitchen and bathrooms

If you spot an odd silverfish lurking in your home, there’s likely to be many more hidden away in unsuspected places. Avoid the unpleasant surprise of a silverfish outbreak by following these 7 handy hints:

Tip 1: Remove all sources of moisture

Fix leaking roofs, taps, pipes and drains and reduce humidity levels inside your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry where possible. This might involve buying a dehumidifier or opening some windows. If you notice mouldy or damp areas, be sure to carefully inspect for the presence of silverfish.

Tip 2: Keep your home clean

Regular and thorough sweeping, vacuuming, dusting and mopping in less frequented and hard to reach places can assist with removing eggs. Remember to check behind and underneath furniture, and even steam clean fabric furniture and upholstery.

Tip 3: Store unused fabric and paper items away

Clothes, towels, sheets, blankets and rugs are best stowed away inside wardrobes, closets and drawers, with silverfish-deterring mothballs adding extra protection. Photo albums and books can be stacked in tightly sealed plastic bags and non-cardboard boxes.

Tip 4: Practice proper food storage

Pantry items, especially those which are starch- or sugar-rich, are best kept dry in tightly sealed containers.

Tip 5: Regular yard maintenance

Clothes, towels, sheets, blankets and rugs are best stowed away inside wardrobes, closets and drawers, with silverfish-deterring mothballs adding extra protection. Photo albums and books can be stacked in tightly sealed plastic bags and non-cardboard boxes.

Tip 6: Remove access points

Identifying and sealing over holes, gaps, cracks and crevices will make it more difficult for silverfish to enter your home.

Tip 7: Pesticide sprays

Available at most hardware stores and supermarkets, general pesticide sprays are effective at stopping silverfish in their tracks.

Protect your belongings from silverfish, get expert advice today

or

8371 1277

Professional silverfish management

Once a colony has been established, it can be difficult to manage a silverfish infestation without professional assistance. This is because silverfish lay eggs in easily overlooked tiny cracks and crevices all over your home and belongings.

That’s why at Allstate, our pest technicians are always available for ongoing treatments for persistent and recurring outbreaks when needed. Here are the methods that we use to successfully control silverfish:

Silverfish insecticide sprays

Effective in large areas, a fast-acting aerosol spray can reduce the silverfish population quickly.

Fumigation

A powerful solution for severe infestations, we’ll arrange with you to safely fumigate large, enclosed areas while you, your family and pets are not at home for a specified period of time.

Silverfish control dust

Sprinkled liberally in hard-to-reach spaces such as tiny gaps and wall cavities, diatomaceous earth control dust deters silverfish from accessing these areas to nest and hide their eggs.

Choose Allstate for fast and effective silverfish control

At Allstate, we’ve seen how sneaky silverfish can quietly cause damage and disruption in homes and businesses across town. That’s why we’re available 24/7 for urgent advice and solutions to managing silverfish problems in all suburbs of Adelaide.

Since 1986, Allstate has offered comprehensive pest control services, including innovative and modern silverfish treatments, to residential, commercial and industrial clients alike.

With an emphasis on safety, our pest control methods are always focused on the wellbeing of people, pets and the environment.

We offer payment plans and competitive warranties on all our services, so you can access long-lasting protection from silverfish outbreaks sooner rather than later.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

Rodent Control for Distribution Facilities

Rodent Control for Distribution Facilities

by | Jun 26, 2024 | Blog, Rats

A serious threat to distribution facilities, hungry rodents can make a mess, contaminate stock and have a negative impact on your business if you don’t act fast to stop them. This guide is for busy facilities managers to help safeguard your business from the threat of a rodent outbreak.

What questions will this article answer?

Why rodents are a threat to distribution facilities

Distribution facilities are ideal places for rodents to nest, feed and breed. As the weather cools down, they are particularly drawn to the shelter and warmth of the indoors.

As expert scavengers, they will eat almost anything, from human to pet food to rubbish, even soap and leather, with plenty of other food sources to choose from at any given distribution facility.

Businesses can pay a heavy price for a rodent outbreak. From spoiling goods and spreading diseases to causing electricity supply problems or even starting fires, rodents can cause disruption, distraction as well as loss of business, hygiene and productivity. Clients, customers and staff alike may feel put off from visiting your facility.

To make matters worse, a rodent infestation is considered a breach in government health and safety standards, and can result in significant fines and penalties.

With many potential rodent entry points at a distribution facility, it’s important to avoid an outbreak at all costs.

Problems caused by a rodent outbreak

Since warehouses and distribution facilities are ideal places for rodents to hide, nest and breed, this can create havoc in the workplace. Rodent problems can include:

Damage to stock, supplies, equipment and buildings

With their strong, continuously growing teeth, rodents can chew through packaging, wood, plaster and insulation, as well as electrical wiring. In addition to the damage, they can create a significant mess with gnawed food, scraps and crumbs.

Contamination and spreading infections

Rodents are notoriously unhygienic. They can carry germs and diseases in their fur, saliva and droppings, such as Salmonella, leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis and rat bite fever. They contaminate surfaces, utensils, floors and equipment and leave staff and customers feeling unwell.

Manage rodents fast. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

How to identify a rodent infestation at your distribution facility

Look for the following signs of a rodent outbreak at your business:

Noises

Distracting sounds may come from rodents in your roof and walls, such as scampering, scurrying and squeaking, particularly at night.

Gnaw marks

Rodents are able to chew through timber structures, pipes, walls and cables, not only causing physical damage, but also leaving behind characteristic bite marks. Also look for traces of gnawed food items and scattered crumbs.

Unpleasant smells

Rodent waste can give off a musty, sour smell.

Droppings

Shaped like black grains of rice, mouse droppings are 3-5mm in length, and rat droppings are usually 12-18mm in length.

Nests

Made from a collection of foraged material scraps including wood, cardboard, paper and fabric, rat nests are a strong indication that you have an outbreak on your hands. These can be hard to spot as they are usually well hidden.

How to prevent rodent outbreaks at distribution facilities

Rodent proofing [insert link: https://allstatepest.com.au/rats/how-to-get-rid-of-rats-in-winter/] your business is the best way to avoid the complications of an infestation. We recommend the following tips for a rodent-free workplace:

  • Inspect your building for all potential rat and mouse entry points [insert link: https://allstatepest.com.au/rats/7-tips-to-keep-rats-out-of-your-house-this-winter/] and seal them over
  • Rodents are incredibly flexible and have the ability to squeeze through tiny gaps, so cover all gaps, cracks and crevices as soon as you notice them.
  • Regularly inspect less-frequented storage areas as they make great hiding spots for rodents to build nests
  • Follow safe food handling and storage practices, removing all sources of water and clearing away food spills immediately
  • Maintain high hygiene standards by minimising clutter, and regularly clean using industrial strength products
  • Regularly maintain yards and outdoor areas by keeping plants and trees trimmed away from your building and removing piles of vegetation
  • Keeping rubbish bins and waste tightly sealed

    Protect your facility from rodents. Get fast advice today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Professional rodent control

    After a thorough assessment of your facility, we identify the source of the outbreak and then use the following rodent control methods to fix the problem:

    Physical traps

    Your pest control technician will position multiple baited traps in highly frequented areas to physically capture the rodents. With rats requiring larger traps and mice the smaller sized ones, we monitor and replenish the traps as needed.

    Baits

    Laced with a poisonous rodenticide, baits are an effective way to manage a rodent infestation. We are careful to use targeted baits that do not pose a risk to other animals or people.

    Integrated pest management for distribution facilities

    Preventing rodents and other pests from entering distribution facilities is best achieved with a comprehensive pest management strategy.

    Proven to keep customers, clients and employees safe from pest outbreaks, Allstate’s Integrated Pest Management program is the recommended approach to ensure that your business runs smoothly and pest-free everyday.

    Beginning with an initial assessment of your property, your assigned pest technician will check for any existing pest control systems and identify all potential risks. They then use this information to put together a compliant and comprehensive pest management solution that meets all government health and safety regulations.

    For your convenience, you’ll have 24/7 access via our online portal to your tailored pest management program, as well as all compliance documentation and inspection reports. You can instantly lodge any new problems with your assigned pest technician and receive a fast response and avoid unnecessary delays.

    No matter the size or complexity of your distribution facility, speak to Allstate today to learn how we can help you to keep rodents away for good.

    For fast and effective rodent management, choose Allstate

    At Allstate, we understand how stressful a rodent outbreak can be, and it can negatively impact the normal day-to-day operations at your business.

    That’s why our team is available 24/7 to all suburbs of Adelaide to tackle rodent infestations of all sizes in commercial, industrial and residential settings.

    Using non-toxic treatments that are safe for children, pets and the environment, our licensed pest control technicians are fully equipped with the latest technology to manage all types of pest outbreaks.

    Enquire today to see how our integrated pest management programs can help keep rodents away from your business for good.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277

    5 Ways to Prevent Pest Birds this Winter

    5 Ways to Prevent Pest Birds this Winter

    by | Jun 11, 2024 | Bird Control, Blog

    With the winter chill setting in, the last thing you need to worry about is a flock of pest birds sheltering in your roof. They’re messy, noisy and cause damage to your building.

    Continue reading to find out how you can stay free of pest birds this winter season.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Why are pest birds attracted to my home in winter?

    Well adapted to survive the harsh winter elements, pest birds such as pigeons, sparrows, starlings and mynas can thrive in homes and businesses across Adelaide.

    Similar to people, pest birds are drawn to the warmth and shelter that your home provides when the mercury drops.

    With the ability to squeeze through tiny gaps between loose roof tiles, they make their way inside your roof space, roof ventilators, attics and walls to build nests, lay eggs and raise their young. Another popular cosy nesting spot is underneath solar panels.

    If you’ve got food and water sources available, this makes your home even more appealing for pest birds, who survive by scavenging a wide range of food. From small insects to diving in rubbish bins to food scraps left on the ground, they are definitely not fussy eaters!

    How to spot a pest bird outbreak

    If you’re wondering whether or not you have some bird visitors or a full-blown pest bird outbreak, here’s some signs to look for:

    Large numbers of pest birds around your home

    You may find them perching and roosting on your roof, chimney, verandah, balcony, antennae, window panels, solar panels, gutters or wooden support beams.

    Persistent chirping noises

    Birds, and especially chicks, chirp to communicate with each other.

    Bird droppings

    An accumulation of messy brown, black or white droppings on the ground is a clear sign of a pest bird outbreak.

    Nesting material

    Pest birds are clever at crafting sturdy nests from various foraged scraps, such as twigs, leaves, straw, pine needles and grass. So look out for nests underneath solar panels, inside your roof, or even tucked between some wooden beams.

    Control pest birds fast. Speak to an expert today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Problems caused by a pest bird outbreak

    There are many problems that a pest bird outbreak can cause in your home or business:

    • Constant chirping sounds can be distracting and disruptive
    • Pest bird droppings are an eyesore and contain corrosive compounds that can damage your roof, buildings, air conditioning unit, solar panels and outdoor furniture
    • Sticky and slippery bird droppings are a health and safety hazard for stairs, fire escapes and footpaths
    • They can carry and spread germs and diseases such as ornithosis (Bird Fancier’s Lung), cryptococcosis, salmonella, E-coli bacteria, histoplasmosis and aspergillosis
    • Pest birds carry parasites such as bird mites, bed bugs and ticks, which can trigger secondary pest outbreaks and allergiess
    • Birds can contaminate food and water contamination through droppings, nesting material and feathers
    • The accumulation of feathers and nesting material in your gutters and drains can cause water blockage, leaks and overflow
    • Pecking and fouling in your garden can ruin your plants, fruit trees and veggie patch and leave a mess behind
    • Pest birds can be aggressive and breed fast, so if you notice fewer native birds in your yard, chances are that pest birds have taken over the space as their territory

    5 ways you can prevent pest birds this winter

    We recommend the following tips to help protect your home or business from a pest bird outbreak:

    Tip 1: Remove all sources of food and water

    Pest birds are expert scavengers and have a wide and varied diet which can include common things you would find in an average suburban backyard. This includes flowers, fruit, vegetables, and insects. Pet food and water bowls, as well as food scraps in compost piles and rubbish bins are also a popular choice.

    While bird feeders and bird baths can attract native birds, they’re also likely to capture the interest of pest birds. Where possible, we recommend having less available food and water and keeping compost and waste tightly sealed and covered.

    Tip 2: Regularly inspect your home for access points and proof them

    Pest birds range in size and have the ability to squeeze into small spaces to enter your home. So, it’s best to check your roof for gaps between loose tiles, uncovered vents and other small openings and either seal them off or cover them with a fine mesh. Overhanging branches and vegetation can also encourage birds to nest close to the building.

    Tip 3: Locate and remove nesting material

    As territorial creatures by nature, pest birds carefully choose places to nest, roost and breed. Besides harbouring different types of parasites, germs and diseases, nests also provide a safe place to lay and incubate eggs, which attracts more birds and worsens an outbreak.

    Regular yard maintenance and keeping your garden tidy and relatively free of small loose twigs and leaves can also help reduce the availability of nesting material.

    Tip 4: Clean and disinfect the affected area

    Not only do pest birds make a mess with feathers, germ-infested nesting material, debris and droppings, they also leave behind pheromones, which attracts other birds. That’s why it’s always important to clean up the mess from any pest bird infestation.

    Allstate offers professional cleaning and property maintenance services to refresh, rejuvenate and sterilise the mess from pest birds. Our services include gutter, roof void and water tank cleaning or pressure washing to keep your property looking sparkling clean and pest-free.

    Tip 5: Solar panel cleaning and proofing

    With the rise in solar panel installations, pest birds have had increasingly more options for safe and comfortable nesting spots on roofs all around Adelaide.

    Unfortunately, they are also responsible for causing messy stains and damage to expensive solar panels, resulting in the loss of efficiency.

    You can avoid pricey repair bills with Allstate’s solar panel cleaning and proofing service.

    After managing the pest bird problem, we conduct a thorough clean of the area and then install a UV coated mesh skirting to the sides of your panels. This hard-wearing mesh prevents birds from nesting underneath your panels, enabling them to function at their best.

    Protect your home from pest birds today

    or

    8371 1277

    Professional pest bird management

    At Allstate, we provide a range of innovative and humane pest bird management methods Depending on the extent of the outbreak, we may use a combination of approaches to ensure that the root cause of the problem is fixed as quickly as possible.

    These include:

    • Installing roosting deterrents such as bird spikes, netting, wire, jolt
    • Physical control measures such as trapping
    • OvoControl – an RSPCA approved and AI-powered modern long-term bird control solution

    To learn more about a tailored bird control program for your home or business, contact Allstate for a comprehensive pest bird assessment today.

    For safe and fast pest bird control, choose Allstate

    Having a pest bird infestation is a noisy and messy distraction, and the last thing you need to deal with in the cold winter weather!

    At Allstate, we understand pest bird behaviour so that we can manage all infestations from their source, and use a range of innovative and modern treatments to help prevent the problem from returning.

    Since 1986, we’ve assisted homes and businesses across all suburbs of Adelaide with pest bird outbreaks of all sizes in commercial, residential and industrial settings.

    Available 24/7 for advice and solutions, we offer payment plans to help keep you and your family protected from pest birds for good.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277

    Spider Proofing your Home and Garage

    Spider Proofing your Home and Garage

    by | May 17, 2024 | Blog, Spider

    In cold weather, your home can provide the perfect safe haven for spiders looking for shelter and warmth.

    In this Hivemind blog, we share with you 9 ways to prevent these pesky spiders from crawling around your living spaces once and for all.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Why are spiders attracted to my home?

    Although spring is the peak season for spiders to emerge for breeding, they are drawn to the warmth and shelter of your home in cold weather. Being very small in size, they can easily crawl inside through small and easily overlooked entry points, including gaps, cracks and crevices.

    Spiders will look for quiet places to hide out and lay eggs. So, if you have piles of leaf litter sitting in your yard, or less frequented areas such as sheds and garages, then spiders will actively seek out these places and make themselves at home, knowing that they won’t be disturbed.

    If your home also has plenty of food sources, it’s an added bonus – for them, not you! Spiders enjoy feasting on insects such as flies, mosquitoes and moths, and in some cases, other spiders. So when you see lots of insects around, there’s a good chance that spiders won’t be too far away.

    Common household spiders

    Although there are an estimated 10,000 species of spiders in Australia, these are the ones that you’re most likely to encounter in your home:

    Redback spiders

    Easily distinguished by their bright red stripe on their upper abdomen, redback spiders are black coloured, grow up to 15mm long and are known for their venomous bites.

    White tailed spiders

    Dark red to grey coloured, with a characteristic white spot on the tip of their cigar-shaped body, female white tailed spiders grow up to 20mm in length, and males up to 12mm. They are nocturnal and hunt other spiders for food, including redback, daddy long legs and black house spiders.

    Huntsman spiders

    Grey to brown coloured with fine hairs covering their legs, huntsman spiders can grow between 6-20cm long, depending on the species.

    Daddy long legs

    Brown, grey or black in colour, with extremely long and thin legs giving them a fragile looking appearance, daddy long legs spiders grow between 0.7-0.9mm long.

    Brown house spider

    Brown to black coloured, with a rounded shape, brown house spiders can grow up to 12mm long. Also known as cupboard spiders, you may find them hiding out in undisturbed areas indoors and outdoors.

    Black house spider

    Dark brown to black in colour, with a charcoal grey abdomen and white markings, the black house spider can grow between 10-15mm long and loves hiding away in dark corners of your home.

    What problems can a spider outbreak cause in my home?

    Having a spider infestation is not a pleasant experience for you and your family members. Here are some of the reasons why you want to avoid it happening in the first place:

    They can cause stress and anxiety

    With arachnophobia occurring in about 5% of people, a full-blown infestation can be quite triggering and disruptive.

    Some spiders have venomous bites

    Most spider bites are harmless and may cause an allergic reaction at worst. However, there are certain species of venomous spiders, such as the funnel web and redback spiders, where the venom from their bites contains toxins, which require immediate medical attention from your doctor

    Spider webs are messy and unhygienic

    Having sticky spider webs strung up around your home can make it look untidy. If allowed to accumulate, they will collect insects, dust and pollen, and become harder to clear away.

    How can I tell if I have a spider infestation?

    You can spot a spider outbreak easily with the following signs:

    You notice more spiders around

    Although the peak season for spiders is spring, some species do seek warmth and shelter inside your home and hibernate over the cooler months. Check less frequented areas, which are perfect hiding and breeding spots for spiders, including moist environments such as drains and pipes. You may also notice them emerging from hiding spots in tiny gaps and holes.

    You see many spider webs

    Extensive networks of spider webs within the same space is a clear (and messy!) sign of a spider outbreak. Webs are spun differently, depending on the species of spider.

    Spider burrows

    Some spiders, such as wolf spiders, carve out burrows within your yard, and do not spin webs. These burrows can be found within piles of vegetation, compost, leaf litter or within soil. Don’t forget to check under rocks.

    Egg sacs

    Spiders can lay hundreds of eggs at a time within rounded sacs, which are suspended in silken webbing.

    For effective spider management, speak to our expert team

    or

    8371 1277

    9 ways to prevent a spider outbreak

    Avoid walking into sticky webs when you least expect them with our proven spider prevention tips:

    Aerosol insecticide sprays

    Available from most hardware stores and supermarkets, off-the-shelf sprays are a popular spot treatment for the odd spider crawling around the house.

    Homemade deterrent sprays

    With sensory organs on their legs which can detect unpleasant smells, you can use strong-spelling homemade repelling sprays to keep spiders away from your home. You can fill a pump bottle with a water and vinegar mixture or use essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus or peppermint.

    Spider traps

    With an adhesive surface to physically trap spiders, store bought spider traps are inexpensive and can be laid out in popular spider hot spots around your home. Take care with this method if you have curious pets or young children.

    Remove spider webs

    Sticky spider webs can attract more spiders to the area, so we recommend clearing them away regularly with a vacuum cleaner, duster or damp cloth.

    Diatomaceous earth

    A silica-based naturally occurring substance, diatomaceous earth comes in a powdered form and can be sprinkled around outdoor areas around the perimeter of your home to prevent spiders from entering.

    Regular garden and yard maintenance

    Keeping your property tidy helps reduce all potential hiding spots for pesky spiders. Consider removing piles of vegetation, trimming away branches and bushes that are growing close to your home, mowing your lawn and making sure that spider webs are removed from pot plants. Take care to cover all outdoor furniture, equipment and shoes that aren’t in use. Store piles of wood away from your building.

    Sealing all entry points

    Being small in size, spiders can easily access your home by crawling through tiny spaces such as holes, gaps and cracks. Inspect your home, including the roof and around windows, and cover or fill all potential entry points. Installing mesh screens around doors and windows are also helpful in deterring spiders.

    Install spider-repelling lights

    Available in yellow, green or red filters, insect-repelling globes are effective at keeping many different types of creepy crawlies away from your home, including spiders.

    Professional pest control

    Sometimes, spider outbreaks persist, despite your best efforts to manage them. Having a trained pest control technician with the knowledge, right equipment and targeted treatments could be the best way to protect your home and family.

    Protect your home from spiders, speak to an expert today

    or

    8371 1277

    Professional spider management

    Our pest control technicians have an extensive knowledge of spider species and behaviour, so we can identify and treat any spider outbreaks quickly.

    Since we choose treatments that are approved by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, this means that all spider problems are handled safely, minimising risks to children and pets.

    After an inspection and assessment of your property, we normally use targeted spider control insecticide sprays, applied to the perimeter of your building, as well as spider control dust, which is sprinkled inside hard-to-reach areas including gaps, voids, cracks and crevices

    For severe outbreaks, this treatment may need to be reapplied, and your technician will let you know when this is necessary.

    For safe and reliable spider control, choose Allstate

    As the weather cools down and spiders seek shelter indoors, you might see more spiders around your home and garage. At Allstate, we understand how frustrating a spider outbreak can be, so we’re always here to help.

    Established in 1986, we’ve successfully managed spider outbreaks across all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7, our pest technicians are highly trained and fully equipped to provide urgent advice for spider problems in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

    Using modern, innovative technology and treatments that are non-toxic to people, pets and the environment, all our services are covered by comprehensive warranties. Ask about our payment plans so you can get fast access to spider treatment today.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now.

    or

    8371 1277

    How to Prevent Termite Damages in Commercial Buildings

    How to Prevent Termite Damages in Commercial Buildings

    by | May 17, 2024 | Blog, Termites

    A pest infestation in a busy commercial building or business premises is the last thing you need.

    When the infestation is termites, it’s even worse. A termite outbreak can cause expensive damage, breach government safety regulations and put your tenants at risk.

    Avoid attracting termites to your commercial facility with Allstate’s expert termite prevention advice in this Hivemind blog.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Why it’s important to avoid a termite infestation in your commercial building

    Don’t be fooled by their small size! Termites can cause destruction to your property if left unchecked. Using their sharp teeth and strong jaws, they feed on cellulose by chewing through wood, paper and cardboard products. With an abundance of cellulose-based products and materials in many commercial buildings across Adelaide, they are a perfect place to satisfy the insatiable appetite of an emerging termite colony.

    Found all across Australia, there are 30 species of termites which are thought to be responsible for significant damage to buildings, leaving behind repair bills which can cost building owners tens of thousands of dollars at a time.

    Unfortunately, you’ll have to foot the entire bill for the repairs. Termite damage is not covered by insurance as it is considered highly preventable.

    To make matters worse, structural problems in your building can place your business at risk by:

    • Compromising the safety of tenants, employees, clients and customers
    • Breaching workplace health and safety regulations, resulting in hefty penalities
    • Disrupting day-to-day operations
    • Increasing the chance of fire hazards and electrical problems
    • Damaging machinery, supplies, stock, furniture and equipment
    • Negatively impacting your business reputation

    Don’t let termite activity hold your business back from flourishing. Allstate’s commercial termite management service can assist with safeguarding your facility any time.

    Need termite protection? Speak to an expert today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Signs of a termite outbreak

    Termite infestations can be difficult to identify in the early stages, and if you’re untrained in termite behaviour, it can be even harder to detect subtle clues in a busy commercial facility. Here’s what our licensed termite inspectors look for

    Building damage

    A clear indicator of extensive termite destruction, seeing changes to your walls, floors and ceilings means that the structural integrity of your building has been compromised. Look for cracks, blistering, warping and sagging.

    Mud tubes

    Irregular rows of hardened brown dirt stuck to a wall, wooden beams or foundations are one of the more obvious physical signs of termite activity. Known as mud tubes, these tunnels are made from a mixture of wood debris, dirt, saliva and droppings. They serve to protect termites from predators and prevent moisture loss as they journey from their nest to forage for food.

    Clicking sounds

    You may be able to hear a persistent clicking sound coming from your walls or ceilings as termites carve away inside wooden beams.

    Interruptions to electrical supply

    As electrical fittings and wiring are often installed in and around key wooden support structures, termite tunnels can accumulate organic material and cause electricity supply disruptions, increasing the risk of a fire hazard.

    Hollow sounding wooden structures

    As termites tunnel through wood and create a void in the middle, you will hear an empty, hollowed out sound when you tap on the wood.

    How to avoid costly termite damage in commercial buildings

    Although termites can be difficult to keep away, it’s possible to make your property a less inviting place for them to begin a colony. Here are our top recommendations to protect your commercial building from a termite outbreak:

    Regular yard maintenance

    Removing termites’ preferred food source, cellulose, will make your building and yard less inviting. If possible, remove unused piles of wood and tree stumps. Keeping trees and foliage well-trimmed so that they are not touching the building reduces access.

    Reduce sources of moisture

    Environments that are high in moisture provide ideal survival conditions for termites to survive. We recommend regularly inspecting drains, tanks, pipes and gutters for leaks and fix them as soon as possible. If you are located in an area with high levels of moisture, your property may also require more frequent termite inspections and a stronger prevention barrier.

    Termite inspections

    The best way to protect your commercial property is to have a highly trained, licensed professional perform regular, thorough termite inspections with the best equipment.

    Yearly termite inspections are crucial

    According to government recommendations, termite inspections should be carried out at least once a year, or more frequently if you’re in a high risk area.

    At Allstate, we understand it’s important not to have any disruption in business hours, so we happily work outside your hours of operation.

    Using modern equipment such as moisture readers, sounding tools, borescopes and movement detectors, our termite inspectors thoroughly assess all areas of your property inside and outside buildings, including walls, floors, ceilings, roof voids and subfloors. We take care to check the yard outside, particularly if you have wood piles, fencing, sleepers, lots of trees, or moisture.

    Once your inspection is completed, your licensed termite inspector will send you a report with recommendations to safeguard your property. This report will highlight all potential risk factors to determine the most ideal inspection frequency for your business.

    Don’t delay your termite inspection. Arrange a time with a licensed termite inspector today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Professional termite control with Allstate

    If there is evidence of termite activity found during a routine inspection, our pest control technicians use the following termite treatments to stop further damage from occurring:

    Premise Treated Zones

    A fast-acting termiticide spray, Premise can be applied to soil in affected areas or treatment zones for an immediate effect in serious outbreaks.

    Sentricon Always Active

    An effective protective barrier to stop termites from entering inside, Sentricon Always Active bait stations are installed underground, around the perimeter of buildings on your property. With a targeted termiticide embedded within each station, termites will feed on the lethal bait and take it back to their colony to pass onto other termites.

    Integrated pest management for commercial buildings

    At Allstate, we’ve seen the devastating consequences that a pest outbreak can have on businesses. From small to medium to large commercial facilities, our Integrated Pest Management program has been proven to successfully keep customers, employees, clients and staff safe from pests in all suburbs of Adelaide.

    After an initial assessment of the premises, we’ll identify all possible risks and take into account your current pest control measures to make sure that your business is completely compliant with government standards.

    With the assistance of a dedicated pest control technician who understands the needs of your business, you’ll then have a tailored pest management program put in place.

    But that’s not all. To make pest control even faster and easier, you’ll have 24/7 access to your personalised pest management program via our online pest control portal.

    There, you’ll find all inspection reports, compliance documentation and a copy of your pest management plan in one convenient place. As an added bonus, you can report any new problems immediately and receive a fast response from your assigned pest control technician.

    If you’re a busy property manager, Allstate offers modern, personalised pest control solutions for property managers to make your job easier.

    For long-lasting termite management solutions, contact Allstate today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Choose Allstate for reliable and safe termite management

    Termite outbreaks can result in serious and expensive problems for commercial properties, and it’s clear that they are best avoided in the first place.

    For almost 40 years, Allstate has managed and prevented termite infestations in all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7 for all urgent enquiries and advice, we offer comprehensive termite inspections performed by licensed termite inspectors, as well as effective, targeted nontoxic treatments.

    No matter the size or location of your commercial building, the industry or the number of tenants and employees, we can tailor an Integrated Pest Management program for your unique circumstances and keep termites away for good.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now.

    or

    8371 1277