Blog
How to Shield Solar Panels from Pigeon Nests and Damage
Solar energy is a significant investment for any Arizona homeowner. It lowers utility bills, increases property value, and contributes to a greener Valley. However, there is a persistent threat that can compromise the efficiency and lifespan of your system: pigeons.
At Varsity Termite and Pest Control, we’ve seen firsthand how a small flock of pigeons can turn a high-tech solar array into a costly maintenance nightmare. Understanding the risks and implementing professional bird proofing is essential for protecting your roof and your wallet.
Is Your Mulberry Mesa Home Under Attack? Termite Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore
Arizona is home to some of the most active termite populations in the country. In the Southwest, it’s often said that there are two types of homes: those that have termites and those that will. At Varsity Termite and Pest Control, we specialize in protecting Mulberry properties from the structural devastation these pests cause.
If you’ve been searching for a termite inspection near me in Mesa, you’ve already taken the first step toward saving your home. Here is what every Mulberry homeowner needs to know about spotting and stopping termites before the damage becomes irreversible.
How Scorpion Home Sealing Blocks Pests Before Summer Heat
Scorpions are one of the most misunderstood and unwelcome pests homeowners face as summer approaches. While many people focus on reactive treatments after spotting a scorpion indoors, the most effective strategy begins long before temperatures peak. Home sealing works by physically blocking scorpions from entering your home in the first place, addressing the root of the problem rather than just the symptoms.
Is Your Attic Insulation a Winter Nest for Arizona Pests?
When people think of pest problems in Arizona, summer usually gets all the attention. Scorpions, ants, and roaches tend to steal the spotlight once temperatures rise. But winter is often when pests quietly settle in, and your attic may be their favorite place to do it.
As outdoor temperatures drop, insects begin looking for warmth, shelter, and undisturbed spaces to survive the cooler months. Attics check every box. They’re warm, rarely accessed, and protected from predators. If your insulation is outdated or compromised, it can unintentionally turn your attic into a seasonal nesting site for pests that may cause problems long after winter ends.
Start-of-Year Pest Control Checklist for Arizona Homes
The new year is the perfect time for Arizona homeowners to get ahead of pest problems before they spiral out of control. With our warm climate and unique desert environment, pests in Arizona don’t truly “take a break,” even during cooler months. That’s why starting the year with a proactive pest control checklist can help protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind all year long.
Use this start-of-year pest control checklist to stay one step ahead and learn when it’s time to call in professional Arizona pest control services.
Are Winter Termites Real? What Arizona Homeowners Should Know
When most people think of termites, they picture swarms emerging in the spring or summer. But Arizona homeowners know our desert climate doesn’t always follow traditional seasonal rules, and neither do our pests. That leads many to ask the big question: Are winter termites real?
The short answer? Absolutely. And in Arizona, they can be just as active and destructive during the cooler months.
Here’s what every homeowner should know about winter termites, why they remain a threat, and how scheduling a termite inspection or receiving regular termite treatments in Mesa or the surrounding areas can protect your home year-round.
Why Cold Weather is Bad News for Termite Control
Termites in warmer climates can often be a nuisance all year round, but colder weather could mean even more termites. Termite season is usually in cold temperatures in the fall or winter because termites, like all insects, are cold-blooded: below temperatures of 25 degrees Fahrenheit, a termite can die within just a few minutes. Because of this, as temperatures drop below 50 degrees, termites will begin searching for the warmer areas, such as burrowing underground (some as many as three feet underground), finding dead tree stumps to hibernate in, or-- alternately-- inside your building. Unfortunately, the basements often approach the optimal temperature for termites, and so if there are any that are nearby, they will attempt to inhabit and ultimately infest the home or business where they have taken up residence.
Scorpion-Proofing Your Home Before Fall: October Homeowners
As the summer heat begins to wind down, Arizona homeowners face a different challenge — scorpions looking for a cool, safe place to hide. If you live in Mesa or the surrounding areas, September and October are the perfect time to get ahead of the problem and start scorpion-proofing your home. By acting now, you can prevent these pests from sneaking inside as temperatures begin to drop.
How to Spot the Difference Between Flying Ants and Termites
Flying ants and termites may look nearly identical at first glance, but knowing how to tell them apart can save you time, stress, and money. From uneven wings to straight antennae, there are a few clear signs that reveal which pest you’re dealing with. This guide walks you through those differences and explains when it’s time to call in a professional.
How to Recognize the Different Types of Bees in Your Property
Several types of bees live in our environment. Some of them are beneficial to humans, while others are harmful. Knowing their differences is important because they can cause serious health problems if you get stung or bitten.
For the non-expert, most bee species look very similar, and they may also confuse these bees with other insects, some of which, for different reasons, even mimic particular bees.
We have created this brief guide to help you recognize their differences.
Must-Know Scorpion Facts for Arizona Homeowners
Scorpions are a serious concern for Arizona homeowners, especially in Mesa. Learn how to identify them, where they hide, and what you can do to keep your home safe.
The Difference between Pest Control Companies and Termite Control Companies
When you have termites, you can’t hire just any pest control company to take care of the problem. You need a company that is dedicated to or has specific training in termite control. General pest control measures are very different from effective termite treatment, so you need a company that understands the difference and has the skills and materials to apply those treatments.
Top Reasons Mosquitoes Still Bite With Repellent On
We’ve all been there: you’ve applied bug spray, followed the directions on the label, but stepped outside only to get swarmed by mosquitoes. If you’re wondering why mosquitoes still bite even when you’re wearing repellent, you’re not alone. At Varsity Termite and Pest Control, we frequently hear this complaint, especially during the peak of mosquito season in Arizona.
Homeowners’ Guide to Preventing Pigeon Damage
Pigeons might seem harmless at first glance, but if they decide to call your roof or balcony home, they can quickly turn into a costly and messy problem. From blocked vents to unsightly droppings and unpleasant odors, pigeon infestations can do more than just ruin curb appeal; they can seriously impact your property’s value and even your health.
Why Termite Control is Crucial Year-Round in Arizona
Year-round termite control in Arizona is essential due to the state's mild winters, as termites remain active underground, causing costly structural damage if not detected early through regular inspections and preventive treatments.
Why Valley Homes Are Prone to Winter Cockroach Infestations
When people think of cockroach infestations, they often associate them with the heat of summer. However, in Arizona, cockroaches remain a year-round problem, including the winter months. As temperatures drop, these resilient pests seek warmth, moisture, and food, making Valley homes the perfect retreat. Understanding why winter infestations happen and how to prevent them is key to keeping your home roach-free.