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Jennifer Arthur

Jennifer Arthur

Monday, 17 February 2020 11:55

Termite Tips

As spring draws near, that means that termite season is coming in with it.  The abundance of rain that our area receives creates the perfect moist conditions for these invasive pests.  Don't be mistaken by thinking that your home insurance policy will protect you, unfortunately you may not be as protected as you think.  Most home insurance policies do not cover termite damage, since it is considered a preventable problem.

One in five homes are likely to experience a termite attack this season.  Underground termites manufacturer unmistakable passages, frequently known as "mud tubes," to achieve nourishment sources and shield themselves from the outside.  They utilize their scissor-like jaws to eat wood 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  You also notice decay in wood or sagging floors. You may even see a swarm.  We here at BugLink have created a to do list to be prepared for this upcoming termite season.  Remember that we are licensed in North Carolina and Virginia.  In North Carolina we service Roanoke Rapids, Littleton, Lake Gaston, Rocky Mount, Wilson, Raleigh and more.  We cover from Emporia to South Hill, Petersburg and surrounding areas in Virginia.

1.  Get rid of the moisture

Termites love moisture!!  Especially on wood and they thrive in the moist environments.  Along with cellulose material, they depend on moisture for survival.  Always check and make sure there are no leaky pipes anywhere inside and outside of yur home and in the crawl space.  BugLink has many options to help you with any moisture issues in your crawl you may have.  

2.  Don't allow wood and soil to meet

Even though termites do feed on the cellulose in the wood, this is not how they typically enter the home.  As we mentioned before termites have very elaborate tunnels they build within the soil.  The moisture from the ground is perfect for them, and often use their tunnels to enter homes.  Always have a barrier between soil and wood.  If you have any questions about this, we will be glad to evaluate your situation.  

3.  Close all openings!

Termites do come into our home through the soil, but they can also take advantage of any openings outside the home.  Just like rodents and pest, termites will always look for a way in.  We have lots of pest proofing techniques to help!

4. Use caution with mulch

Everyone loves to have a nice manicured lawn with beautiful flower beds!  While it may look nice, it is important to remember it is an excellent source of food for termites.  A preventative treatment or preventative program with regular inspections will help keep you safe!

5.  Don't store wood against your home or in your crawl

Just like we recommend you don't keep food out for rodents or outside for wildlife, you don't want to keep wood outside or under your home for termites.  They will find it and enjoy it!!

6.  Remove all stagnant water

Any kind of standing water around and under your home is a breeding ground for termites.  Keep a regular check on your gutters, drains, etc.  Not to mention with will also help with MOSQUITOES!!

7. Get regular inspections

We here at BugLink always say that prevention is key and PROTECT WHAT YOU LOVE.  We can help.  Our termite inspections are always free and we have several different treatment options to protect your home.  Give us a call anytime at     252-519-0900 or visit www.choosebuglink.com   You can also visit our facebook page for more info.

BugLink is a family owned business formed to fill the need for a new modern approach to pest control.  Pest control starts with prevention.  Not only do we know the bugs we are treating, we also know the environment in which they live and how to care for that properly as well.  We are licensed to handle every aspect of your property no matter where you live.  If you are looking for pest control experts in Roanoke Rapids, NC or on Lake Gaston, NC; even in Emporia, VA or surrounding areas, give us a call today to discover the BugLink differnece.  

Friday, 07 December 2018 11:08

4 Most Common Winter Invaders

4 Most Common Winter Invaders

It's mid-December and winter is here!  Colder weather also brings with it changes in insect activity.  Generally bug populations don't grow during the winter months, they do take to invading your home in search of water and warmth.  Wintertime pest invasions can threaten your home and family.  For some people, contact with certain bugs can result in allergic reactions, or transmission of diseases.  And as we all know, some pests can even cause physical damage to our homes.  Today I will go over a few of the most common pest to help you know what to look for to protect your family and home.  

1.  Spiders

Many species of spiders, including house spiders and brown recluses will find their way to be permanent guest in your basement, attics, crawl spaces, and closets.  Bites from some of these spiders can cause serious reactions.  To decrease spider access to your home, keep all greenery trimmed away from your roof and exterior walls.  Remove access to hiding places by storing your clothes, shoes, and other loose items in airtight bins.

2.  Roaches

Drier winter weather leaves roaches scrambling to get indoors to find moisture.  Once roaches are able to get access to your home, it's only a matter of time before you have a full-on infestation to take care of.  Cockroach allergens cause a significant problems for many people.  In your kitchens they will chew their way through paper and plastics to gain access to your food.  Airtight containers are a great preventative measure for food storage.  Pay special attention to your sinks and appliances to eliminate any excess moisture.  Vacuuming regularly, keeping your countertops and floors clean, and clearing all clutter will go a long way to maintaining an environment that roaches are not fond of.

3.  Ant

Ants march into your home looking for moisture and food.  Giving them any leeway and they will take over your home before you realize it.  Regular pest control services to maintain an insect barrier is the best way to keep ants from invading your home.  

4.  Rodents

Rodents are definitely your greatest threat when it comes to winter pest activity.  Rodents are unsanitary and can cause real and expensive damage to your home.  Rodents come in through tiny cracks and crevices.  Rodents can chew through drywall, electrical wiring, and contaminate food with pathogens.  Use professional services to help you identify and seal any rodent access points.  Many times your garages are prone to rodent activity, make sure this is part of your prevention routine.  Eradication of rodents require both pest control measures and some physical changes.  Be sure to remove all potential food sources.  This includes garbage, old leaves, fallen fruits/vegetables, clutter, and pet food.  

You may not be seeing bugs outside during the winter, but they are not gone.  We want you to be able to enjoy your winter season inside your cozy, warm homes free from any pest.  Please feel free to call us today with questions or concerns you may have.  252-519-0900

Friday, 03 August 2018 15:43

Are You Attracting Pest into Your Home??

Five Things You May Be Doing to Attract Pest into Your Home:

Insects and rodents are always looking new places to make their home.  If you aren't careful, your home could be their new home.  

1.  Not Maintaining Your Yard

We all know that keeping your yard neat enhances the appearance, but it also help prevent pests.  Failing to mow regularly and a collection of old leaves makes your home a hot spot for certain pests.  Not cleaning out your gutters can create pest problems also.

2.  Providing Reliable Food and Water Sources

Like humans, pests need water and food sources.  Don't provide the necessities.  After eating, dispose of food waste and clean up your cooking areas.  It is also a good idea to keep the garbage away from your home.  From ants to mice, pests are always on the look out for a good meal.

3.  Allowing Standing Water on Your Property

Eliminate all standing water on your property.  Many different pest are attracted to water but mosquitoes are a sure  bet.  Like you have all heard, mosquitoes need standing water in order to develop eggs.  Any stagnant water can easily become a new breeding spot.

4.  Not Sealing Your Home Properly

Any small cracks and holes will give pests easy access to your home.  Roaches, spiders, and mice love to find these easy entry points.

5.  Not Having a Tidy Home

Keeping a clean will give you an extra amount of protection.  Make sweeping and vacuuming on a regular basis a priority.  Even the tiniest crumb can draw in pests.  Also, get rid of any boxes that are not being used.  Roaches love to make them their home.  

Contact BugLink for your free home evaluation.  We are here to protect everything you love. 

When the ants come marching into your kitchen, they are not going to back down!!  And, when you are not prepared, you could be squishing them without any hope of getting rid of them all.  Don't wait until it's too late.  Take preventative measures to ensure they are not going to invade your kitchen.  Here are some great tips for keeping them out!

Block Entry Points:  Ants are sneaky! And their small stature means they can fit through very small spaces.  So make sure you take time to block entry points around your home.  It's difficult to spot them all so be sure to call BugLink to help get your home sealed up!

Keep It Clean:  You may think you at doing a great job of sweeping the floor and wiping the countertops, but even the smallest spill is attractive to an ant, whether it's on the floor or the countertop.  Be sure to regularly and thoroughly clean your kitchen.  Don't forget to clear the crumbs from under the toaster!!!!!  You may be surprised!

Watch the Source:  It's important to eliminate sources that can attract ants.  Open food containers, specks of sugar that spill out bag, dog food left out, these are just a few problem areas.  Try storing these kinds of item in sealed containers that can block ants from getting in.  Also, be mindful of the trash.  Take it out daily if possible.  Finally, water sources can attract ants, so make sure you fix any leaky pipes or dripping faucets.

BugLink is a great place to start to help you get rid of any of your ant problems.  Give us a call today to get started!  252-519-0900  Remember, we are here "Protecting what you Love"

Spring....  That happy time of year when the sun is brighter, the days are longer, and the weather is warm enough that we can spend time outdoors again.  Each year, Roanoke Rapids and Lake Gaston residents look forward to playing with their kids and pets in the yard, having cook-outs, and soaking up the sun.  Unfortunately, something we all dread is mosquitoes, and by now we have all heard the dangers of them.  

That danger is the potentially deadly diseases that they carry.  We know they are carriers of the West Nile virus, malaria, yellow fever, and Zika to name a few.  Residents in Roanoke Rapids and Lake Gaston, as well as the United States, have less to worry about that other countries, but there is still a level of danger and uncertainty.  Mosquitoes should be taken seriously and bites should be avoided when possible.  Start protecting yourself and your family today!

We certainly can't stop mosquito season from coming, but we can prepare.  Here are a few things you can do inside and outside your home:

  1. Keep your doors closed in the mornings and evenings when mosquito activity is at its highest.      
  2. Use window and door screens (make sure you check for holes)  
  3. When out on your patios and decks, use fans to create a breeze.  Mosquitoes are terrible fliers.  
  4. Get rid of standing water!!!!!   That is a breeding ground for mosquitoes!    
  5. Wear light, loose fitting clothing to cover exposed skin and use repellants

These tips are helpful, however, professional control has been proven to be more effective in eliminating and preventing mosquito infestations.  For homeowner in Roanoke Rapids, Lake Gaston, southern Virginia, and surrounding areas, BugLink's MosquitoLink Protection Program reduces both mosquito larva and adults on your property.  Our professionals here at BugLink, will treat your property with approved products that are safe for your family, your pets, and the environment.  We will also inspect your home for any standing water and eliminate that for you.  So take the worry off your spring and summer list, enjoy your yard and your family again with MosquitoLink Protection. 

Protect what you love, call BugLink today!   252-519-0900  

Thursday, 08 March 2018 16:48

Who Else Might Be Eating Your Cereal?

5 Tips to a Pest Free Pantry:

1.  Inspection:  Inspect your pantry items and make sure they are pest free.  Schedule periodic checks throughout the year to prevent an infestation.

2.  Storage:  Sealing up your items will protect them from pest and keep them fresh!!

3.  Check Dates:  Many pantry items are considered nonperishable, but they can still go bad and affect flavor.  As the items go bad slowly, they are more likely to attract pest.

4.  Clean Cupboards:  Check for spills and crumbs.  A simple wipe with soap and water can remove any tiny hiding bugs.

5.  Inspect Groceries:  When you are shopping, carefully check packaging for any signs of damage.  Damaged packaging means pest can infest.

Protect your pantry and call BugLink today!!  We have simple prevention solutions for you!  252-519-0900

Termites cause over 5 billion dollars’ worth of damage each year and another 2.2 billion is spent on the control of them each year. The will invade any structure and your best defense is quality prevention. Our area’s most common found termite is the eastern subterranean termite. For many homeowners, the first sign of termite infestation is a swarm of flying insects. Not all swarming insects are termites, some are flying ants. There are a few physical characteristics that determine if what you see is a termite or ant. Winged termites have four equal length wings, straight antenna, and a broad waist. Winged ants have unequal wing lengths, elbowed antenna, and a pinched waist. Termites may be small, but there are a huge threat to your home.  The best way to avoid a termite infestation is to understand the warning signs and be proactive in inspecting your home for termites in the Roanoke Rapids and Lake Gaston areas.

Here are 5 warning signs of termites:

1.  WATCH OUT FOR SWARMS

Reproductive termites are call "swarmers".  When these swarmers take flight it is called a swarm.  They are taking flight to look for a new place to start a colony.  Most of the time this only occurs in spring, but sometimes can occur in the fall.  If you think you see a swarm, immediately call the Roanoke Rapids, NC  and Lake Gaston, NC termite specialist, here at BugLink, for an inspection.

2.  WATCH FOR MUD TUBES

Termites need both moist and protected spaces to survive, therefore, they build small tunnels to navigate above the soil.  These "mud tubes" will appear near your home's foundation, or on any wood close to your home's foundation.  These mud tubes present brown and they are about the diameter of a pen or pencil.  If you see something that resembles a mud tube in your home in Roanoke Rapids or Lake Gaston, you could be at risk.

3.  WATCH FOR SOFTENING OR HOLLOW WOOD

Because termites thrive in moist, small, dark environments, they often eat wood structures from the inside out.  The wood may appear to the untouched and intact, but upon inspection, it will make a hollow sound when tapped.  The termites are eat their way from the inside out.

4.  WATCH FOR OTHER FOOD SOURCES

A very common misunderstanding is that termites will only infest your home from the foundation up.  But, unfortunately, they will find their way to your house any way they can.  Homes that are the most susceptible to infestations have an abundance of wood and wood structures within a close proximity to their home's foundation.  Termites love to feast on playsets, firewood, newspapers, and mulch.  Regularly monitor these areas to make sure termites have not found their way there.  A good prevention measure is removing this items if possible from your home's foundation.

5.  WATCH FOR POOLING WATER AND AREAS OF MOISTURE

Pooling water and moisture in and around your home is an open invitation for termites.  If you have any pooling water around your home, you should keep a check on these areas, especially if close to your foundation.  Another good prevention measure is if you have any leaky faucets or nonfunctioning gutters, be sure have these things fixed.  Also, ensure that your crawl spaces or properly ventilated.

These five warning signs of a Roanoke Rapids, NC termite infestation or a Lake Gaston, NC termite infestation are just a few things that you the homeowner can monitor for when you do your own inspection.  So you don't have to worry about dealing with termite treatment after an infestation, call the experts here at BugLink, for your Roanoke Rapids and Lake Gaston NC termite control.

Remember that prevention is key! Feel free to give a call anytime!!  252-519-0900

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Wednesday, 22 November 2017 10:38

Happy Thanksgiving!!












Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. ~Theodore Roosevelt  







Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at BugLink.  We hope you enjoy this special time with family and friends.  We are so thankful for all of you and send you and yours blessings and love.

Friday, 10 November 2017 10:56

Happy Veteran's Day!!!!

The staff here at BugLink would like to take a moment and thank all of the Veterans for your service and commitment to the

United States of America.

 God Bless you always!

Thursday, 26 October 2017 15:55

Good People, Good Food, Good Music

"LOCALS TAKE BACK THE LAKE" 2017

This past Saturday BugLink was fortunate to be a part of Watersview Restaurant's Locals Take Back The Lake Day.  BugLink and several other businesses participated to support the cause and promote our businesses.  The employees of Watersview had a chili cook-off and the Rhondels provided the entertainment.  What a great day it was!!  We met so many awesome people!  Looking forward to next year!  How lucky we are to call Lake Gaston and the Roanoke Valley home!   

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