What To Do If There Are Bugs in the Attic?

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Attic

Attics and crawl spaces are notorious for harboring pests, especially during the colder months. It’s common to find bugs in attic insulation, corners, and crevices, where they’re protected from outside elements and frequent human activity. Bugs found in attics can include bees, cluster flies, bed bugs, termites, silverfish, and spiders—and any insect in your area that seeks warmth and cover year-round.

Common Bugs Found in Attics

Bugs are always searching for warm, safe places to hide. Since most homeowners don’t go into their attics and crawl spaces on a daily or even weekly basis, insects can make their homes in these places relatively undisturbed. Some of the most common bugs in attic insulation and crevices include:

  • Cluster flies, which are characterized by flying in swarms to thwart predators
  • Termites, which can cause serious damage to wooden structures
  • Bees and other stinger insects that are attracted to warm and dry places
  • Bed bugs and mites, which are often found in attic insulation
  • Moths, which like to burrow in stored clothing
  • Silverfish, which can damage your belongings over time

However, almost any bug common to your area can show up in your attic if it has access through gaps and cracks in your home.

Signs of Bugs in the Attic

The most obvious sign of bugs living in your attic is seeing live or dead bugs when you enter. And if you see bugs on the upper level of your home, it’s a good indicator that they could be coming from your attic.

Here are some common signs that your attic may be home to creepy crawlies:

  • You see tiny fecal spots and pepper-like insect droppings in your attic
  • Your attic’s wooden structures have been chewed, or you see termite tubes
  • You see wings and other insect body parts
  • You see a nest or hive
  • Your stored fabrics and papers are damaged
  • You hear a low humming or buzzing noise, which points to a winged insect infestation

When you see signs of an infestation in your attic, you’ll likely need to call a professional pest control service

Can Bugs Live in Insulation?

There are a few different types of bugs that may take up residence in your attic insulation, including bed bugs and silverfish. While both of these pests can be a nuisance, they can also cause serious damage to your home. Bed bugs are small, brownish insects that feed on blood. They're often found in mattresses and other furniture, but they can also live in insulation. Silverfish are similar in size and appearance to bed bugs, but they're usually gray or silver in color. These pests feed on paper and other materials, and they're often found in damp areas like attics. While neither of these bugs is known to transmit disease, they can both be a nuisance. To feel sure that you are removing bugs from your insulation, partner with a professional pest control service.

How Can I Prevent a Bug Infestation in My Attic?

Since your attic is a warm, dark place with little barrier to the outdoors that you probably don’t frequent, it, unfortunately, attracts a wide range of pests. However, you can lessen your chances of an insect infestation by doing the following:

  • Make sure any cracks and crevices where bugs could possibly enter are insulated.
  • Avoid storing foods, paper, and clothing in your attic. If you must store these items, use sealed plastic containers.
  • Make sure you don’t allow any kind of moisture buildup.
  • Check your attic regularly for any signs of insect activity, moisture, cracks, and other opportunities for bugs in the attic.
  • Keep your attic clean by vacuuming any rugs or carpeted surfaces, sweeping floors, and cleaning up any clutter.

Can You Fog Your Attic for Bugs?

If you've got bugs in your attic, you may be wondering if you can use a bug bomb to get rid of them. Unfortunately, foggers are not very effective against bugs that have already taken up residence in your attic. While they may kill some bugs on contact, most will simply hide away until the fog dissipates. And since foggers don't penetrate into cracks and crevices where bugs like to hide, you're unlikely to get rid of all the bugs in your attic with one treatment. If you're serious about getting rid of bugs in your attic, you'll need to call in a professional exterminator who can provide a more targeted treatment.

How To Get Rid Of Bugs in My Attic?

If you have a bug infestation in your attic, reach out to the experts at Senate Termite and Pest Control today by calling 1-800-433-9490 or by filling out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

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