FAQs

Our company has been providing pest control services for a decade, accumulating extensive experience in the field.

Viper Pest Services was established in 2016, marking the beginning of our commitment to pest control excellence in the Greater Lehigh Valley area.

Yes, we provide complimentary quotes for our pest control services to help you understand the scope and cost of our work.

Termites are wood-destroying insects that have existed since the time of the dinosaurs. While they play an important role in nature, termites are also responsible for an estimated $6.8 billion in property damage each year in the U.S.

Yes—there are several major types of termites in the U.S., and each poses unique threats to homes and structures. Yes—there are several major types of termites in the U.S., and each poses unique threats to homes and structures. Understanding the differences can help with early identification and prevention. Subterranean Termites The most destructive termite species, subterranean termites are responsible for most termite-related structural damage in the U.S. They build mud tubes to reach food while avoiding open air and feed on wood 24/7 using their saw-toothed jaws. These termites prefer moist environments and can even form aerial colonies above ground if sufficient moisture is available. Drywood Termites While less common, drywood termites thrive in very dry wood and are typically found in warmer climates. Unlike subterranean termites, they do not require contact with soil. Instead, they extract all the moisture they need from the wood they consume, allowing them to infest furniture, framing, and other dry wood structures. Dampwood Termites These termites prefer wet, decaying wood and are usually found in forested or high-moisture areas, including leaky basements or bathrooms. They are larger than most other termite species but live in smaller colonies. While they are less likely to infest homes, a dampwood termite presence often signals underlying moisture problems. Formosan Termites Sometimes referred to as “super termites,” Formosan termites are a highly aggressive type of subterranean termite. Known for forming massive colonies, they can cause extensive damage in a very short time. Found primarily in the southern U.S., especially Florida, Texas, and Hawaii, they can build both underground and aerial nests, making them particularly difficult to control once established. Conehead Termites An invasive species originally from the Caribbean, conehead termites are known for their rapid spread and above-ground activity. Named for the distinctive cone-shaped heads of their soldiers, they infest everything from wood and fences to trees, shrubs, and even paper products. Colonies can number in the hundreds of thousands, and infestations—currently limited to Broward County, Florida—can devastate properties quickly if not addressed promptly.

In many areas, termite swarms are visible in early spring and can be one of the first signs of an infestation. However, termites are often mistaken for flying ants, so it’s important to know what to look for. Common signs include: Soft wood in the home Mud tubes on the exterior of your home or near the foundation Darkened or blistered wood surfaces

Termites feed nonstop—24 hours a day, 7 days a week—which means they can cause significant damage to wood structures in a short amount of time. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), termites are responsible for an estimated $6.8 billion in property damage each year. With the help of a trained termite professional, infestations can be effectively managed and prevented.

Homeowners are most likely to notice termites during a swarm, which typically occurs in early spring. A termite swarm is often the most visible and alarming sign of an active infestation. If you notice a termite swarm on your property, contact a licensed pest professional promptly.

Homeowners can take several proactive steps to help prevent termites from infesting their property. The most important step is to eliminate or reduce moisture in and around the home. Direct water away from the foundation using properly functioning gutters, downspouts, and splash blocks Improve ventilation in crawl spaces to reduce humidity Keep vents clear by trimming back vegetation such as vines and hedges Remove old wood debris near the home, including form boards, grade stakes, tree trunks, or roots Maintain at least an 18-inch gap between soil and wooden parts of the home’s exterior Inspect the foundation regularly for signs of termite activity or damage

Termites are not a pest that can be effectively treated by a homeowner. A licensed pest control professional will recommend treatment based on factors such as location, infestation size, termite species, and home construction.

The most effective treatment depends on the severity of the infestation, the termite species, and the structure of the home. A trained and licensed pest control professional can assess the situation and recommend the best treatment plan.

Termites cannot be effectively treated by a homeowner alone. Pest control professionals have the training, expertise, and technology needed to eliminate termite infestations.

Yes. Nearly 95% of pest control companies report handling bed bug cases annually, compared to only 25% before 2000. According to NPMA surveys, one in five Americans has experienced a bed bug infestation or knows someone who has.

Bed bugs are found in: Homes and apartments Hotels and motels Hospitals and schools College campuses Offices and retail stores Movie theaters and public transportation

Yes. Bed bugs do not discriminate based on cleanliness or luxury. Infestations occur in both budget and five-star locations.

Bed bugs have been reported nationwide: Northeast: 17% Midwest: 20% South: 20% West: 19% No region is immune.

Bed bugs are elusive, highly mobile, and resilient. They hide in furniture, walls, luggage, and cracks. They can survive long periods without feeding and tolerate a wide range of temperatures.

Up to a year or more without a blood meal.

From near freezing up to 122°F, making professional treatment necessary.

Inspect luggage and clothing after traveling Check sleeping areas carefully Contact a professional immediately if bed bugs are suspected

Bed bugs bite, leaving itchy red welts. They spread quickly through luggage, clothing, pipes, and vacuum cleaners and are extremely difficult to eliminate once established.

No. They can hide in sofas, chairs, outlets, baseboards, cracks, and behind picture frames.

Professional inspection and a customized treatment plan are required. DIY methods are rarely effective.

They are not known to transmit disease, but bites can become infected if scratched excessively.

Bees, wasps, hornets, and some ants such as fire ants.

They send over 500,000 people to emergency rooms annually. Homeowners should never attempt control themselves.

During warmer summer months.

Many are social insects that aggressively defend their colonies, releasing pheromones that trigger mass attacks.

Proper pest identification Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Removing food, water, and shelter Yard sanitation and targeted treatments Vacuuming may also be used

Yes. Carpenter bees are wood-destroying insects that can cause structural damage.

Identify nesting areas Seal cracks and crevices Secure garbage and food Avoid fragrances outdoors Seek medical attention for allergic reactions

Cockroaches are a leading trigger of asthma and allergies, especially in children.

Allergens from saliva, feces, carcasses, and debris (“frass”).

Yes. Professionals can remove residual allergens.

Seal exterior cracks and holes Trim vegetation away from the home Keep basements and crawl spaces dry Store garbage properly Repair rotted wood and shingles Store firewood 20 feet from the home Contact a pest professional when needed

The brown marmorated stink bug enters homes to overwinter as temperatures drop.

Seal entry points with caulk Repair screens and weather stripping Reduce outdoor lighting Eliminate moisture Inspect items before bringing indoors Trim landscaping Do not crush stink bugs Use a vacuum for removal

Cockroaches spread bacteria, trigger asthma, and thrive in warm, humid environments. Health risks include: Allergies and asthma Foodborne illness Bacterial infections Prevention strategies: Eliminate food and water sources Reduce moisture Seal entry points Monitor hiding places Watch for signs of infestation Call a licensed professional

Rodents invade millions of U.S. homes annually, causing structural damage and spreading diseases such as Salmonella and Hantavirus. Prevention tips: Seal entry points Improve drainage Store food securely Declutter storage areas Inspect regularly

Common rodents include: Norway Rats House Mice Deer Mice Tree Squirrels Voles Groundhogs Each species presents unique health and property risks, including disease transmission, gnawing damage, and rapid reproduction.

Seal cracks and crevices Dispose of garbage regularly Clean food spills promptly Store sweets in sealed containers Eliminate excess moisture Remove debris and vegetation near the home