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Complete & Affordable Boxelder Bug Extermination & Removal

A large cluster of boxelder bugs sitting on a rocky surface outside

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You have a Boxelder Bug Problem, and we have the solution.

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Why Choose Pestex?

Fast & Effective Extermination

When dealing with Boxelders, speed is essential. These pests invade quickly and in very high numbers, so you need an effective solution that works fast. Pestex delivers fast and effective results, using the latest techniques, products, and tools to get the job done right the first time.

Affordable & Transparent Pricing

No one likes unexpected costs, and we’re no different. At Pestex, we offer affordable and transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We believe in honest communication and provide clear quotes before starting any work. This way, you know exactly what to expect, and there are no surprises.

Certified, Licensed, & Experienced Team

Our team consists of experienced and certified technicians who are experts in pest control. They are trained to handle even the most challenging infestations while remaining professional, relying on their experience and skill. With Pestex, you can trust that your home is in capable hands.

Environmentally Friendly Extermination Services

We care about the environment as much as we care about eliminating pests. Our extermination methods are designed to be environmentally friendly, minimizing the impact on your surroundings while effectively exterminating Boxelder Bug infestations. All of our products and practices are approved by the Ministry of Environment.

Our Boxelder Bug Extermination & Control Process

2 Boxelder Bugs sitting on a white background

Thorough Inspection

To effectively tackle a boxelder bug infestation, we start with a detailed inspection. This helps us identify:

  • Infestation Sites: Key areas where boxelder bugs congregate, such as on exterior walls or near boxelder trees.
  • Entry Points: Gaps and cracks where the boxelder bugs are getting inside your home from. 

Customized Treatment Plan

Based on our findings, we develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include:

  • Heat Treatment: We use high temperatures to eliminate bugs, larvae, and eggs. This method is effective and safe, targeting pests without damaging your home.
  • Powder Treatment: Silica dust is applied to crevices and wall cavities, creating a protective barrier that kills bugs and prevents re-infestation.

Residual Spray Treatment: A fine mist of insecticide is used on surfaces to kill bugs on contact and provide ongoing protection through residual properties.

Implementation

Our technicians apply the selected treatments with precision, ensuring all affected areas are addressed. We prioritize:

  • Safety: Our methods are approved by relevant health and safety authorities, ensuring they are safe for your family and pets.
  • Effectiveness: We use only high-quality products to ensure long-lasting results.

Eco-Friendly: All our products and techniques are environmentally friendly.

Prevention and Home Sealing

Preventing future infestations is key. We can help you seal potential entry points to keep bugs out, and will spray residual insecticides on possible entry points to offer ongoing protection, and scatter fine dusts to kill on contact.

How to Recognize a Boxelder Bug Infestation

Boxelder bugs are typically:

  • Black with Red or Orange Marks: Adults have a distinctive coloration with an elongated body.
  • Visible in Large Numbers: They congregate on sunny walls or trees, particularly in the fall in very large numbers.

Effective DIY Boxelder Extermination

If you prefer to tackle the problem yourself, consider these tips:

  • Use a Strong Water Jet: This can help dislodge visible bugs from surfaces, make sure to use hot water and powerful water pressure to remove the bugs off of surfaces and kill them on contact. This is useful for infestations of your home’s exterior.
  • Apply Homemade Solutions: Mixing laundry detergent with water can kill bugs on contact, this can be useful for small infestations in the home.
  • Vacuum Regularly: Remove bugs from indoor areas and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately. Boxelder bugs emit a foul odour when crushed, so vacuuming them is the best method of removal for small infestations. 

Why Professional Help is Important

While DIY methods can offer temporary relief, professional treatment ensures:

  • Complete Eradication: We address both visible and hidden infestations, and ensure no population survives inside or directly around your home.
  • Long-Term Protection: Our treatments provide lasting results, reducing the likelihood of re-infestation through the use of residual chemicals and insecticides.

Get in Touch

For a thorough and effective boxelder bug control service, contact Pestex today. Our team is ready to help you reclaim your home from these pesky intruders.

What Are You Waiting For? Call Now & Find out Why we're the best Exterminators in Ontario!

What Are Boxelders? A Comprehensive Guide

Boxelder bugs are a common pest that many homeowners encounter. To effectively manage and control these insects, it’s important to understand their characteristics, life cycle, and behavior. Here’s a detailed look at what boxelder bugs are, how to identify them, and what makes them tick:

Identification of Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs are relatively easy to identify if you know what to look for:

  • Appearance: These bugs are black with distinctive orange or red markings on their wings and body. Their coloration and patterns help them stand out against their environment.
  • Size: Boxelder bugs typically measure between 11-14 mm (about 0.4-0.6 inches) in length. They have an elongated, oval shape with a flat body and distinctive colouring.
  • Features: They have six legs, a pair of antennae, and a narrow, elongated head. Nymphs (the immature stage) are bright red and lack a pair of wings, distinguishing them from adults.

Species and Habitat

Boxelder bugs belong to the species Boisea trivittata. Understanding their habitat preferences helps in managing their presence:

  • Host Trees: Boxelder bugs are primarily associated with boxelder trees, a type of maple tree. They also frequent other maples and occasionally fruit trees. Inspect your garden and be aware of any trees that can attract these pests!
  • Geographic Range: These bugs are commonly found throughout Eastern Canada and the United States, particularly in areas where their host trees are abundant. They are very common in Ontario, and reports of infestations have been on the rise over the last half a decade!
  • Seasonal Behavior: They are often seen in large numbers during late summer and fall as they seek shelter for the winter. They are also active in the spring when temperatures rise.

Life Cycle of Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs undergo a simple metamorphosis, which includes the following stages:

  • Eggs: Female boxelder bugs lay eggs in clusters, usually on surfaces like eaves, stones, or tree bark. The eggs are yellow when laid and turn red as they develop and get closer to hatching.
  • Nymphs: After hatching, boxelder bugs enter the nymph stage. These nymphs are bright red, wingless, and gradually grow into their adult form over several molts.
  • Adults: Adult boxelder bugs emerge from their nymph stage and can live for several months. They have fully developed wings and are capable of reproduction.

Behavior and Habits

Understanding the behavior of boxelder bugs can help in effective management and precaution:

  • Feeding Habits: Boxelder bugs feed on the seeds, leaves, and fruit of their host trees. They use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to extract juices, which can cause damage to plants, especially trees infested by large populations.
  • Overwintering: As temperatures drop, boxelder bugs seek out warm, sheltered places to overwinter. They often enter homes through small cracks and crevices, where they remain inactive until spring.
  • Social Behavior: These bugs are social insects and often gather in large numbers on sunny, warm surfaces, especially during the fall.

DIY Boxelder Bug Control & Removal

Boxelder Bug Troubles? Here’s What You Can Do Yourself

Boxelder bugs are a real nuisance. Their presence can be annoying and even damaging, especially if they get into your home. If you’re dealing with these pests, here are some effective DIY strategies to tackle them:

  1. Seal Entry Points

Prevention is key. Boxelder bugs often find their way into homes through small gaps and cracks. To keep them out:

  • Inspect Your Home: Check for gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home. Also repair or replace any damaged screen on doors and windows as these openings allow easy access to all kinds of pests!
  • Seal Gaps: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal exterior openings. This will help prevent the bugs from entering and also improve your home’s energy efficiency.
  1. Use Hot Water and a Hose

A quick and effective method to get rid of boxelder bugs is using hot water and high pressure from a standard hose:

Using hot water from a high pressure hose (using an attachment or your thumb) to spray directly onto bugs and infestation spots can drown the bugs and kill them without causing stains and pungent odours (Boxelder bugs release a pungent odour when crushed).

  1. Remove Trees Where Boxelder Bugs Live

Eliminate the source by removing potential breeding grounds:

  • Identify Infested Trees: Boxelder bugs are drawn to Boxelder trees and other similar trees especially of the Maple family.
  • Prune or Remove Trees: If possible, trim branches and remove heavily infested trees near your home to reduce their habitat. This step helps in lowering the bug population immediately around your property.
  1. Vacuum Up Bugs

For immediate relief from boxelder bugs inside your home:

  • Use a Vacuum: Regularly vacuum up boxelder bugs you spot inside your home. Make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately to prevent the bugs from escaping.
  1. Professional Pest Control

While these DIY methods can help manage and reduce the boxelder bug population, they often do not provide a complete solution. Here’s why professional pest control might be necessary:

  • Thorough Inspection: Professionals can identify and treat all potential problem areas that you might miss. Large infestations inside the home can be very difficult to deal with, and require powerful and tested products placed strategically to be as effective as possible. 
  • Complete Eradication: Advanced treatments, like residual sprays, can offer long-lasting protection and prevent re-infestations.
  • Peace of Mind: With professional services, you can be confident that the job is done right and that your home is fully protected.

What To Make Of This Guide:

While DIY methods like sealing entry points, using hot water, removing infested trees, and vacuuming can manage boxelder bugs, professional pest control ensures a comprehensive solution. For lasting relief and protection, contact a pest control expert who can provide specialized treatments tailored to your needs.

Need Professional Help?

If you’re struggling with a boxelder bug infestation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We offer expert pest control solutions to ensure your home remains bug-free.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Boxelder Bugs?

Boxelder bugs are insects that get their name from the boxelder tree, which is their preferred habitat. They are typically black with orange or red markings along their wings. These bugs are known for invading homes in the fall, seeking warmth and shelter.

Why Are Boxelder Bugs a Problem?

Boxelder bugs are primarily a nuisance. They can stain fabrics with their fecal matter and emit an unpleasant odor if crushed. While they don’t cause significant damage or spread diseases, their presence can be annoying and disruptive.

How Do Boxelder Bugs Enter My Home?

Boxelder bugs usually enter homes through small cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and foundations. They seek out warm places to overwinter, making homes an attractive option as temperatures drop.

How Can Pestex Help with Boxelder Bug Infestations?

At Pestex, we offer expert boxelder bug control services tailored to your needs. Our team uses advanced techniques and tools to eliminate these pests effectively and prevent future infestations.

What Should I Do If I See Boxelder Bugs in My Home?

If you spot boxelder bugs, start by inspecting your home for possible entry points and sealing them. Employ some DIY control methods as mentioned earlier (high powered hot water hose, trimming box elder tree branches, and vacuuming indoors). If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional assistance.

Our Service Area

Team Pestex is committed to identifying, analyzing and exterminating your pest infestation affordably, promptly, and effectively. We offer comprehensive pest control and extermination services for commercial and residential clients in the Hamilton, Niagara & Haldimand area. 

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