Pest Issues During Construction

Have you been thinking about remodeling your home, or are you in the midst of a remodel? This may seem like a bad time to deal with a pest problem, but it’s all too common of a problem. If you’re dealing with a pest problem during a renovation or remodel, the exterminators at Live Oak Pest Control can help you. Just give us a call and we’ll ask you a few quick questions.

We have extensive experience helping homeowners and business owners in North Central Florida tackle pest infestations during construction – and over time, we’ve learned a few things. Here’s what you need to know.

Should You Get Pest Control Before a Remodel?

Yes, we strongly recommend you resolve any known pest issues before beginning your project. Most construction pest problems result from a pre-existing infestation that was hiding within the structure. We see it all too often. When you take out your wall, you take out their wall too, and now the pests are on the move looking for somewhere new to live.

Pest infestations can easily interrupt construction or remodel projects, which is why it’s crucial to take care of these problems beforehand.

7 Pest Control Tips for Remodeling and Construction Projects

• Caulk is your friend!: We cannot stress this enough. Seal around all pipes and entry points leaving NO holes or gaps.
• Concrete… Are you breaking it apart or adding new?: Either way, you need to contact your Pest Specialist at Live Oak Pest Control for guidance. It can cost you thousands of dollars if you lose your termite warranty over a simple addition like a porch or patio. Don’t have a termite warranty on your home? We’ll discuss this more later, you’ll still need to get your new porch/patio treated! If you’re remodeling and move the tub, shower, sink, washer or other appliance and you must add plumbing by breaking into the existing foundation, you will MOST DEFINITELY need to get this treated against termites.
• Expanding foam is HUGE NO!: Yes, it fills in the hole(s) however rodents will chew right through it. The correct way is to use steel wool, metal flashing or 1/8″ hardware cloth to seal the hole.
• Back to caulking!: Make sure you seal all plates that sit on the concrete. Caulk all gaps and anywhere you can to seal an insect out.
• CAUTION!: If you find an old rats nest wear protective gloves and a face mask. Do not vacuum it up. Remove with a broom and dust pan.
• Bringing in new materials?: Make sure you check all new materials like wood, cabinets, sinks, etc. for pests before bringing them inside and starting a new pest problem.
• Got a coin?: Take out a nickel and a dime to give yourself the size of the spaces rodents need to get in. Mice can gain access to your home through a hole the size of a dime and rats through a hole the size of a nickel. Most insects only need thousandths of an inch to gain access.

Got a Pest Emergency? Need a Pre-Construction Inspection?

Coordinating a renovation on your home renovation can be a stressful experience. The last thing you need to deal with is a pest infestation. Whether you’re already experiencing that, or you’re scheduling a pre-construction pest service, we can help. 

Have questions about pest control during remodel or renovation projects in North Central Florida? Call Live Oak Pest Control today!