Author: Natalie Hall

Cleaning Services

The Importance of an Exterior Window Cleaning Service

Natalie Hall

Keeping your windows clean is one of the most important things you can do to keep your home looking great. It will also help prevent the build-up of dirt and hard water minerals that can cause staining.

Window Cleaning

Landlords often include window cleaning services as part of their regular maintenance schedule for apartment complexes and high-rise buildings. Tenants may be responsible for this task themselves, depending on their lease agreement. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Exterior Window Cleaning Service.

The towering beauty of skyscrapers is often a centerpiece in the urban landscape. These architectural marvels are meant to evoke awe in those who see them and serve as monuments to human innovation and creativity. Unfortunately, dust and pollen can obscure their true splendor, creating a grimy exterior that can diminish the building’s impact on observers and occupants alike. Fortunately, high rise window cleaning services can help to restore these structures to their former glory.

It is important to note that high-rise buildings require specialized equipment and workers to clean them properly. In general, a building is considered a high-rise under the 1968 Building Code if it is 75 feet or taller above the lowest level where fire department access is permitted. However, the actual height of a building can vary greatly depending on its design and construction materials.

Typically, high-rise windows are cleaned by using repelling systems. These are specially designed tools that allow the worker to safely reach and clean each individual window without having to leave the safety of a lift or other platform. In addition to these repelling systems, high-rise building cleaners may also utilize ladders and a device called a “bosun’s chair” to reach hard-to-reach areas.

Working at such great heights can be a dangerous job. Falls are the leading cause of injury for workers in this profession, and while there are measures in place to prevent accidents, they can still occur. To mitigate these dangers, workers should undergo regular training to ensure that they are utilizing all appropriate safety equipment. In addition, the equipment used should be inspected on a regular basis to ensure that it is in good condition and free from wear and tear.

Lastly, the best way to protect against accidents is to have a clear understanding of what each worker’s duties are and how they fit into the larger picture. High-rise window cleaning is a detailed, complex job that requires a great deal of experience and skill to complete correctly. Therefore, it is important to partner with a professional service that has the proper knowledge and expertise to tackle the task efficiently.

Window Cleaning for Commercial Buildings

Commercial windows make a significant impact on the image of a business, reflecting professionalism and attention to detail. They allow ample natural light to enter the building, which enhances productivity and creates an inviting atmosphere for clients and customers. Dirty windows can leave a negative impression and deter potential customers, so it’s important to keep them clean.

Many NYC landlords include window cleaning in their regular building maintenance schedules. This is particularly true for high-rise buildings, which require specialized equipment to access and clean exterior windows at heights over 50 feet. Professional cleaners are trained in ladder safety and use a controlled descent system to safely clean building facades and window surfaces. Regular cleanings remove dirt and pollutants that obscure visibility and degrade glass over time.

In addition to enhancing the appearance of a building, cleaning commercial windows provides several other benefits for property managers. For example, it increases tenant satisfaction and decreases turnover rates. This reduces expenses associated with finding new tenants and rehabilitating vacant spaces. Clean windows also help maintain optimal energy efficiency by maximizing sunlight and reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating.

Before starting the actual cleaning, it’s best to start by removing dust and cobwebs from the frames, sills, and tracks. You can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a soft bristle brush to get rid of these particles, which will prevent them from spreading onto the glass during the cleaning process.

Once the frames are free of debris, spray them with cleaner and let it soak in for a few minutes. Then, using a cloth or cotton swabs, wipe the surface and inside corners of the frame. Finally, use a dry cloth to wipe off any remaining cleaner and remove any stubborn deposits.

Regular cleaning of commercial windows and other exterior components helps to avoid expensive restoration work in the future. Without regular cleaning, dirt and pollutants build up on the glass’s surface, causing stains, blurriness, and pigmented spots. These contaminants can also etch into the glass, creating permanent damage that requires costly restoration or replacement.

Window Cleaning for Multi-Story Buildings

In a multi-story building, the windows are a key component of the exterior’s aesthetic, but are also often difficult to clean. Unlike interior windows, exterior windows are exposed to harsh weather and other environmental factors that can cause them to become dirty more quickly. For this reason, a professional window cleaning service is usually needed for multi-story buildings.

Cleaning services for high-rise buildings need to utilize a variety of tools and equipment that can reach a higher elevation. These include ladders, telescopic poles, and other specialized cleaning systems. Additionally, a high-rise cleaning service should be experienced in the use of rope access techniques, such as rope descent systems (RDS). These are a great choice for tall buildings and can provide cleaners with the flexibility they need to tackle challenging windows and hard-to-reach areas.

The specialized equipment used by high-rise cleaners can be more expensive than standard cleaning supplies, but the investment is well worth it. By utilizing the proper cleaning equipment and addressing safety concerns, high-rise windows can be cleaned safely and efficiently.

Ladders are an essential tool for window cleaning, but the process can be dangerous when done incorrectly. To minimize the risk, high-rise cleaners must follow all ladder safety guidelines, including positioning the ladder properly and maintaining three points of contact at all times. Additionally, they should always wear appropriate safety gear and use a harness when working at a high elevation.

To avoid accidents and injuries, it’s important for window cleaners to train extensively before performing a job at a high elevation. Training focuses on using the right techniques, preparing for common obstacles, and developing an emergency response plan. Additionally, it’s important for high-rise cleaners to keep their equipment in good condition. Regular maintenance helps ensure that all safety features are functioning properly and that the ladders can handle the load of a window cleaner.

Providing a high-quality exterior window cleaning service is an important part of any building maintenance regimen. Regular and deep cleaning can help to extend the life of a building’s windows, which in turn enhances its overall value and appeal. Whether you’re looking for window cleaning services for commercial or residential buildings, Valcourt can help you develop an effective maintenance program that addresses the unique needs of your building.

Window Cleaning for Townhouses

The exterior of townhouses, single family homes, and penthouses need regular window cleaning to keep them looking clean and pristine. As with other types of residential buildings, a professional cleaner is equipped, trained, and experienced in washing the windows of these properties. In addition to the cleaning service, a window washer can also take care of other outdoor maintenance tasks like pressure washing, gutter cleaning and protection, and lighting fixture cleaning.

For many building owners and managers, the question of who should be responsible for exterior window cleaning is a source of debate. Ultimately, this is a decision that should be based on health and safety concerns. For example, cleaning the windows of a multi-story building requires the use of high-reaching equipment that can be difficult to handle without proper training and experience. Hiring an outside company to do the job is a safe and convenient option that can prevent both personal injury and property damage.

In smaller buildings and townhouses, it may be easier to determine responsibilities for maintenance tasks. For example, a well-drafted lease agreement may clearly define landlords’ and tenants’ responsibilities for maintenance and upkeep. If the lease is unclear, both parties should be able to find clarity on this issue by seeking clarification from their landlord.

A tenant or homeowner should never attempt to clean their own windows unless they are completely comfortable using high-reaching equipment and are familiar with the equipment’s operation. Otherwise, the risk of injury or property damage is high, especially if the windows are on an upper story of a building.

Moreover, the squeegee used to remove water from the glass needs to be properly fitted to the panes and maintained in good condition. It is recommended to start at the top of the window and work in straight, singular motions. This will help to ensure that no watermarks or streaks are left behind on the windowsill or brick. After squeegeing, it is important to wipe down the squeegee with a dry cloth.

In some cases, it is a better option for homeowners to organize with their neighbors to share the cost of hiring a professional window cleaner. This way, they can have the outside of their apartment cleaned more regularly for a much cheaper rate than having to pay for a cherry picker to come and clean their individual apartments every 6 months.

House Painting Services

House Painters

Natalie Hall

Painting professionals can save homeowners a lot of time and money by taking care of all the prep work. They’ll prepare surfaces and paint, resulting in beautiful results that can enhance the value of the property.

House Painters

To become licensed Modesto House Painters contractors undergo extensive training and gain years of experience in the field. They should be able to provide you with a comprehensive contract that itemizes the cost of labor and materials.

A house painter applies painting materials to the exterior and interior surfaces of homes. They may be hired by a construction company or be self-employed. A good house painter is capable of completing tasks in a timely manner and following project specifications. They also follow safety protocols to protect themselves and their clients. In addition, they can perform basic wall repair and apply a variety of decorative finishes, such as rag-rolling or Venetian plaster.

The rich history of home painting, from the first use of natural pigments in caves to today’s modern paint technologies and color palettes, underscores the importance of this trade. Professionals use their experience and expertise to transform walls into canvases that tell stories, evoke emotions, and create ambiances. They have a wide range of tools and techniques to ensure the highest quality results.

When selecting a contractor, be sure to meet with several and ask for references. A good house painter will take time to assess the condition of your walls and recommend the appropriate type of paint for each surface. They will also prepare the surface for painting, which includes removing outlet covers, filling holes and cracks, and sanding rough spots. They will provide a quote that includes the precise brand and color of paint to be used.

When hiring a house painter, be sure to compare their prices with other contractors. It’s important to find a house painter that you trust and can work with on your schedule. It’s also a good idea to get referrals from friends and family members who have had their homes painted in the past. This will give you a list of reputable professionals to consider.

Safety

When painting in a residential home, it is important to take safety measures. These include having a first aid kit accessible in case of injuries, keeping children and pets out of the painting area to avoid accidents and ensuring proper ventilation. Ventilation is especially important when using solvent-based paints, which emit toxic fumes that can harm the health of those who inhale them. Other precautions include wearing masks or respirators, putting on rubber gloves, and using protective eyewear.

Another important safety measure is to follow all the applicable regulations and laws when handling chemicals. For example, painters must read the safety data sheets for each chemical before handling them to ensure that they are safe to use. They must also be sure to keep flammable materials, such as white spirit, away from flames and cigarette lighters.

It is also important to take regular breaks to prevent fatigue and injury. A lack of rest can lead to repetitive strain injury (RSI), which affects the wrists, arms, neck, and shoulders. To prevent RSI, it is recommended to change postures frequently, take breaks, and use ergonomic equipment.

Other safety measures that painters can take include making sure that their work areas are clean and organized. This will help them minimize tripping hazards and reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, they should remove cords and hoses from their workspace and keep walking paths clear of obstructions. They should also use ladders that are appropriate for the job and maintain them regularly. They should also use a dust control vacuum when cleaning up hazardous waste to avoid breathing in the particles. Finally, they should use a safety harness and lifelines when working above ground to protect themselves in the event of a fall.

Experience

Painting your home can be a big job, and it is important to hire someone who has experience. Having several years of experience can make a difference in the quality of your paint job, and it also helps if your house painters are licensed and insured. It is important to check licensing requirements in your state, as well as to make sure that they have workers’ compensation and general liability insurance.

A skilled house painter will be able to complete a wide variety of tasks, from touching up dingy areas on the exterior to repainting a room in a new color scheme. They can also help you select the best paint for your particular project, ensuring that it will last longer and provide a better finish. In addition, professional house painters will prepare the surfaces of your home before they apply paint, which will ensure that the finish lasts for longer than if you did it yourself.

Having the right tools is essential for house painting, and experienced painters know how to use them properly. They will have the proper brushes, rollers and other equipment, as well as know how to prep the surface before they paint. They also know how to handle and operate power tools, such as sprayers, scrapers and sanders.

A good house painter will be able to communicate effectively with customers and follow strict safety protocols when working in their customers’ homes. They will be familiar with the latest techniques and will be able to give advice on the type of paint that works best in each environment. They will be able to answer any questions you may have and will be able to provide estimates on time and cost.

Reputation

House Painting is a highly technical job that requires experience and attention to detail. It is also labor intensive and time consuming. Whether you are looking for a house painter to refresh the interior of your home or update the exterior, it’s essential to find a trustworthy contractor with a solid reputation. Inquire about certifications and special training, as well as whether they offer a warranty or guarantee. A reputable painter should be willing to answer questions and address concerns during the estimate process.

A common house painting scam is the “bait and switch” tactic, which involves luring you in with promises of premium services and materials at an unbeatable price. This type of deception can leave you with a subpar paint job, costly repairs, or even a half-painted room.

When evaluating house painters, ask about their credentials and work samples. Legitimate professionals will be open to showing you past projects and can provide a detailed breakdown of costs. They should also be able to clearly explain the benefits and durability of their materials, including the paint’s ability to withstand weather conditions and wear.

Lastly, look for transparent payment arrangements. A reputable house painter will be willing to accept a deposit upfront for materials and supplies, but will require the bulk of payment once the project begins. This ensures that the painter is committed to completing the job, and maintains a level of accountability. Also, avoid painters who request full payment upfront or use pressure tactics to make you accept their low bid quickly. These are red flags of an unethical contractor.

Cost

Painting your house’s interior or exterior is a significant investment, and there are many factors to consider. The costs can vary depending on the surface type, the number of coats required to achieve a satisfactory finish, and the amount of time it takes to complete the project. This is why it’s important to discuss the details of your project with a professional painter before making any final decisions.

Professional painters use premium-quality paints, tools, and equipment to ensure long-lasting results that meet or exceed industry standards. They also follow proven techniques to achieve uniform coverage and a flawless finish. This will ensure your home’s new look stands the test of time and looks great. Moreover, they can offer expert advice on color choices and finishes that complement your style preferences.

Hiring a house painter can save you a lot of time and money. However, you must make sure that they are licensed and insured before hiring them. Also, they should provide you with a detailed contract and warranty in writing. It’s also a good idea to get quotes from several different house painters. This will help you choose the best one for your home.

Whether you want to refresh your walls, revive the ceilings, or update your trim, painting can make a huge difference in your home’s curb appeal. It can also increase the value of your property and improve its functionality. In addition, a fresh coat of paint can also reduce dust and allergens.

Aside from improving the aesthetics of your home, a fresh coat of paint can also help you stay on the good side of your homeowners’ association. A fine for neglecting your home’s appearance could be costly, but a fresh coat of paint will keep you out of trouble.

Home Improvement

Enhancing Home Aesthetics with Custom Blinds and Shades

Natalie Hall

Update your windows with custom blinds and shades that complement your home’s style. These window treatments are measured and manufactured to fit your specific window dimensions for a polished look and better light management.

Blinds

Choose from a wide variety of styles and fabrics. From slatted blinds that can be tilted to control how much light enters a room, to solar shades that deflect sunlight and reduce heat, there’s something for every room and home. Contact Custom Blinds And Shades KY for professional help.

If you’re looking to add style and function to your windows, you’ll find that custom blinds are the perfect solution. Reputable window treatment providers offer free consultations to help homeowners choose products that suit their unique needs. From reducing glare and energy efficiency to creating privacy and aesthetic balance, purpose-designed blinds and shades regulate light, temperature, ambiance, and more.

Blinds are available in a wide variety of colors, materials, designs, and operating systems, which makes them the ideal choice for many different styles of homes. If you’re looking for a more traditional look, consider wooden blinds or aluminum blinds in various sizes and slat colors. For a more modern aesthetic, choose roller blinds or roman shades in sleek, contemporary styles.

Unlike ready-made blinds, custom blinds are made to fit your windows perfectly. This eliminates gaps and uneven coverage that detract from your interior design. They’re also designed to last longer than off-the-shelf options, which means they’re less likely to need replacing sooner.

In addition to the color and material options, you can personalize your window shades with additional details. For example, you can add colored fabric tapes or tassels to your blinds for a pop of color that complements the rest of your décor. You can also choose to go cordless with your custom blinds, which is a great way to keep children safe from dangling cords.

Shades can also be customized with a variety of pleat sizes, opacity, and textures to provide the ideal amount of light control and privacy. If you’re on a budget, consider choosing cellular shades, which are both energy efficient and affordable. If you want to add a touch of natural beauty, try custom woven shades in organic fibers like jute, rattan, and bamboo.

Style

With custom shades, you can choose from a wide array of styles. You can find the perfect match for your home’s design and architecture with options that include woven woods, sheer fabrics, cellular shades, pleated blinds and more. With ready-made window coverings, you’ll often have fewer options in terms of fabric or style. For instance, many ready-made shades won’t come in a color that matches your other decor or window frame.

In addition, many ready-made shades may be solid and neutral, which doesn’t offer much visual flair in your home’s decor. Unlike these window treatments, custom shades are designed to look good and fit your windows perfectly. This means that you won’t have to deal with any gaps or uneven coverage in your home’s decor.

For instance, you can find a range of pleated shades that feature a classic roman design for a luxurious touch in your bedrooms and living rooms. If you’re looking for a more minimalist option, there are also roller and cellular shades that feature clean lines and work with most homes.

You can also find natural woven shades made with jute, bamboo and rattan for an exotic feel in your home’s interior. These are great for large windows in your living room or dining area and they can add a tropical vibe to any interior design. You can also find energy-efficient cellular shades that trap air to prevent cold and hot air from seeping through your windows, saving you money on your energy bills throughout the year. Similarly, you can find double shades that alternate opaque and sheer bands for an optimal mix of privacy and light control.

Energy Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of custom blinds and shades is their energy efficiency. The right materials and designs can create a barrier against unwanted heat gain in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter, saving on heating and cooling costs. This eco-friendly approach aligns with a growing trend toward sustainable living and can enhance the value of your home.

Personalized Fit and Style

Unlike ready-made window treatments, custom blinds are crafted to fit your windows precisely. This ensures a seamless integration with your home’s architecture while offering a variety of options for light control and privacy. You can also choose from an endless array of fabrics, textures and colors to complement your home’s decor and personal style.

The most important factor in determining how effective your window treatments are at reducing energy bills is their fabric. Different fabrics offer varying degrees of insulation, light filtering and UV protection. For example, cellular (honeycomb) shades are the most energy efficient because they trap air in distinct pockets to prevent heat gain and loss. This provides a comfortable indoor temperature all year round and can help to reduce your energy bill significantly.

Other energy-efficient window treatments include wood blinds, which provide a classic look that works well with traditional and modern styles. Window quilts, which are sheets of quilted material that can be rolled up or unrolled, offer insulation similar to cellular shades. Both of these types of window coverings are available in a wide range of colors and can be layered with other treatments like custom drapes Nin YC for a streamlined look that maximizes energy efficiency. Motorized and automated window treatments can be programmed to open and close at specific times of the day, optimizing natural light and temperature control.

Durability

Window treatments are often placed in high traffic areas, and they may be subject to a lot of wear and tear due to their constant use. That’s why it’s important to choose options that are durable and can withstand repeated use. Custom blinds and shades are made to last, making them a smart investment for your home. They’re also a great way to add value to your home, as they offer superior light control and privacy, features that are appealing to savvy buyers.

The durability of your window treatments depends on the type and material they are made of. The thicker and more robust the fabric, the better they’ll hold up against the elements. However, other factors can also impact their longevity. Physical damage can truncate window treatment lifespan, as can accidents and the placement of the window coverings in your home.

Many custom window treatment manufacturers, like Graber, offer a wide selection of colors, textures, and designs to help you create a look that complements your decor and enhances your home. Having hundreds of options can be overwhelming, but working with a Graber Design Expert will ensure you make a decision that’s both beautiful and practical for your home.

You can also customize how your custom blinds are mounted, either inside the window frame for a sleek, built-in look or outside the frame for greater coverage. This customization can affect their durability, with an inside mount usually having a longer lifespan than an outside mount.

Privacy

With today’s window shades, you can have privacy options that go beyond just blocking sightlines. Blinds and shades can also filter light, provide complete privacy, protect your furniture from UV rays, and even help cut down your energy costs.

Unlike ready-made window treatments, custom blinds and shades are made to your exact window size to ensure a perfect fit. This helps them look great, manage glare better, and reduce their insulating capabilities.

When it comes to choosing a color and fabric for your shades, you’ll want to consider how much privacy you’re looking for. Some shades will obscure the view from outside while still allowing plenty of natural light into your room, while others offer total privacy at night. Additionally, the type of construction material can affect how transparent your shade is.

If you’re looking for a balance of daytime privacy and natural light, consider a pleated shade. These window treatments feature small accordion pleats that fold up and down as you open and close them, letting you enjoy your home’s view during the day while maintaining privacy at night.

Another option is a sheer shade. Sheer shades allow you to see the outdoors during the day while offering a degree of privacy, making them a popular choice for many homes. They’re available in a variety of colors and textures, so you can find the right one to complement your interior design.

Other shade options include cellular shades, which feature a honeycomb-shaped cell design that traps air to improve insulation. They’re available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and fabrics to suit any style, including earthy weaves, mixed textures, and metallic accents. These soft, versatile shades are designed to fit your light control preferences – from sheer to blackout – and offer a clean, upscale look that elevates any space.

Pest Control

Pest Control – Preventing and Treating Pests

Natalie Hall

Pests can cause damage to plants and structures. They may also carry diseases that can affect people.

Pest Control Oak Ridge TN includes methods such as traps, screens, barriers, fences, radiation, and chemicals. The proper use of these methods depends on identifying the pest correctly. Scouting and monitoring are also important.

Prevention

prest control

Taking preventive steps to keep pests from invading is the most cost-effective way to control them. This includes removing the food and water that attract them, sealing cracks, cleaning trash containers, and keeping areas tidy. Also, using resistant varieties of plants, trees, or animals reduces the need for other control measures.

For example, planting marigolds around a vegetable garden deters aphids from destroying the vegetables. Similarly, putting out baits and traps to catch pests before they cause damage is more economical than waiting until the pest population grows out of control. It’s also important to know the life cycle of each pest and the time of year when they are most active, so that you can take the appropriate preventive actions.

Preventive techniques include cultural, physical, and biological controls. Cultural controls involve modifying the environment or human practices to discourage pests, such as planting insect-resistant varieties of crops or changing cultivation methods to avoid soil contamination. Physical methods include removing the pests or blocking their entry to buildings by repairing cracks and sealing gaps, and laying down barriers such as wire mesh or netting. These can be used alone or in combination with other controls.

Biological controls include using predators or parasites to kill the pests, and may be used alone or in conjunction with physical or chemical controls. This is the most environmentally friendly method of pest control, but it can be slow and is usually only applicable to small invasions.

A pesticide is a substance that destroys a pest, whether by attacking its nervous system or by poisoning it. There are many different types of pesticides, including organic compounds such as rotenone and pyrethrins, and synthetic substances such as methyl bromide and diazinon.

Pesticides should be used only when necessary, and only after careful evaluation of their benefits and risks to people and the environment. It is important to read product labels carefully, and follow all instructions for use. Also, never transfer pesticides from one container to another; this can cause them to lose their effectiveness and may be dangerous to humans or pets.

Suppression

Even after you and your maintenance crew take careful steps to keep a building sanitary, pests can still invade in numbers that cause damage or have negative health implications for building occupants. Pests include insects, rodents, birds, weeds and other organisms that interfere with desired plants in fields or orchards, damage homes and other structures, or disrupt ecosystems.

Infestations are most likely to occur when environmental conditions favor the growth of pest populations, such as when a food source becomes available that is attractive to them or they find shelter or water. Weather conditions can also affect pest populations directly by killing them or indirectly by affecting the growth of their host plants.

There are several types of pest control techniques, including biological, physical and chemical. Physical methods involve blocking a pest’s access to food, water and shelter. They may involve traps, netting, or decoys. They are typically safer than chemical methods, and they can be used alone or in combination with other methods.

Chemical pest control involves using toxins to kill or repel unwanted organisms. Common chemicals include insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. These products are most commonly used in agriculture to protect crops from pests, but they can also be used in buildings to combat ants, termites, cockroaches, and other household pests. These products are often more effective than preventative measures, but they can be dangerous to humans and pets if not handled properly.

A less harmful type of pest control is biological. This involves introducing a pest’s natural enemies into the environment to reduce its population. It can be used to supplement other pest control methods, such as by releasing predators into an area that has a natural problem with a specific type of pest.

The best way to prevent pest infestations is to take preventative measures, including regularly cleaning and maintaining facilities, blocking points of entry with quality sealant or knitted copper mesh, and keeping trash cans covered. If you do experience a pest infestation, immediately seek professional help. There are many different pest control experts with the knowledge and resources to deal with even the most stubborn pests safely and effectively.

Monitoring

Pest monitoring is checking a field, landscape, forest or building to identify which pests are present and how many there are, or what damage they’ve caused. This helps determine whether the pests are at a level that warrants control tactics. It can also help select the best control methods and when to apply them.

Pests can be a nuisance or a health hazard. They may bite or sting, as with mosquitoes, bed bugs, fleas and cluster flies; or they might stain, stink or damage property, as is the case with termites, cockroaches, ants, pine seed bugs, boxelder bugs, silverfish and clothes moths. Some have a frightening or grotesque appearance, as is the case with spiders and scorpions. And some spread diseases, as is the case with rats, mice and roaches. They can even cause asthma and other health problems, as is the case with cockroaches, which are linked to respiratory issues. In some cases, they are merely a nuisance, as is the case with squirrels, pigeons and rodents.

Safe pest control requires a partnership between residents, building owners, managers and pest professionals. The latter are trained to identify pests and their sources, and can recommend steps that can be taken to eliminate or deter them. This approach is called integrated pest management, or IPM. IPM reduces the need for chemical spraying and improves living conditions, while saving time and money in the long run.

For example, some pests, such as mosquitoes, can be controlled by reducing the amount of standing water in the area where they breed. For rodents, sealing and repairing cracks and openings in walls and floors can prevent them from entering buildings and spreading pests. And the use of nontoxic, natural predators, such as garter snakes and owls, can provide effective prey control without introducing new or invasive species.

Using pheromones to lure male insects can help reduce populations, as can using juvenile hormones to keep pests from maturing into adulthood. Similarly, using natural enemies, such as birds, lizards and bees, to eat pests or their eggs can be more effective than applying pesticides, which can have negative impacts on the environment.

Identification

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are parasitic insects that feed on human blood and cause a variety of health impacts including itchy, red bumps from their bites. Training housekeeping and maintenance staff to spot a bug can help prevent an infestation. Medical professionals cannot accurately diagnose the bug by its bite, so a specimen should be brought to a county Extension agent or pest control professional for identification. Treatment depends on the stage of the infestation and whether nonchemical methods are effective, or pesticides are required. Pyrethrins and pyrethroids are the most commonly used chemicals for treating bed bugs, and should only be applied by a licensed pest control company. Bed bugs have developed resistance to some chemicals. Alternatives are being developed for future use. See the UT Extension Bed Bug Resource Page and Pest Blog.