Orkin

Frequently asked questions

I am surprised that Orkin takes so much time to educate people about insects when their business is to remove them. Why do you educate people about bugs?

Over the 100 years that we have been in business, we have learned a lot about insects and have developed a strong respect for them. Of the thousands of species in the insect world, our role is actually pretty limited. In fact, less than one percent of all insect species pose a threat to homeowners. We know that they play an important role in our ecosystem, and we are committed to educating others about the benefits, as well as harmful effects of insects. This web site is one way that we educate people. We offer educational materials to homeowners, as well as teachers for their classrooms.

I am a school teacher and always looking for new materials for my class. Does Orkin provide any materials on insects?

Yes. We offer a teachers' handbook on insect zoo keeping for classrooms, for kindergarten through 5th grade. It was developed by the National Museum of Natural History at the Smithsonian Institution with support from Orkin and is available free to teachers by calling 1-800-563-4687.

Does Orkin have any other information on insects?

Yes. Orkin offers informational materials to homeowners including the Pest Identification Guide available for download.

I visited the Smithsonian recently and saw the O. Orkin Insect Zoo at the National Museum of National History. How are you affiliated with them?

The Smithsonian Institute approached Orkin with a sponsorship opportunity in 1993 when they were embarking on a significant upgrade for the Insect Zoo. Orkin enthusiastically became involved and is now the permanent sponsor of the Insect Zoo. The Insect Zoo includes more than 300 live insects and arthropods. It was created to encourage interactive learning and a better understanding of insects from all over the world, as well as those found in the average American backyard.

How do I help keep termites out of my home?

Small steps make a big difference. Start by eliminating food and moisture conditions around your home. Food for termites can be several different things. Most people know that they can eat wood. Their actual food is called cellulose which can be anything that is made from wood by-products like paper and other items. Some of the most common issues around a home are wood or siding that touches the ground. Condensation drip lines can create water sources for termites as well. Ensure that water from these areas is channeled away from the structure. These simple steps make your home a less attractive target and will help deter termites.

How do I keep roaches out of my home?

Cockroaches can enter your home in many different ways, from the outside through cracks and crevices, vents, sewer and drain pipes, and even in grocery bags.

Orkin encourages people to reduce and eliminate cockroach populations by removing all food sources and unnecessary water sources, sealing all cracks and crevices, vacuuming, removing shelter sites like cardboard and paper, and using an integrated pest management program, which includes baiting, trapping, insect growth regulators and residuals. You can also reduce the risk of cockroaches by being careful not to bring items that may be infested into your home, such as suitcases, cardboard boxes and grocery bags.

How do I help keep ants out of my home?

Ants can enter through even the tiniest cracks, seeking sweet or greasy substances in the kitchen pantry or storeroom areas. Reduce conditions that can attract ants to your house, including water and honey dew-producing insects like aphids. Be vigilant – clean up spilled food and drinks immediately, rinse out cans before putting them into the recycling bin, keep food stored tightly, pick up your pet's food at night, don't feed your pets outdoors, seal cracks around doors and windows, keep gutters and downspouts clean and keep plants away from the home's foundation.

Does Orkin offer a guarantee?

Yes, We're not satisfied until you're satisfied. Orkin means peace of mind when it comes to pest control. If pests return between regularly scheduled visits, we'll retreat at no charge. And if we're unable to solve your pest problem satisfactorily, we will refund your last pest control service payment, too.

Is the pest treatment going to harm my pets?

The materials that Orkin uses to help control household insects are designed to be applied at low concentrations, typically less than 1%, and to specific sites in the house. The insecticide concentrations are high enough to be effective in helping control small insects and spiders, but should pose no threat to pets that walk on treated surfaces after the application has dried.

The best strategy to keep pets safe is to keep them off any treated surface until it is dry, and this may take 1-2 hours.

How do I know if I have flying ants or swarming termites?

There are several key distinguishing features that we look for. The shape of the waist, the wings and the antennae. Your Orkin Professional can quickly distinguish the difference for you and make the appropriate recommendations.

I have squirrels in attic, can you help me?

Orkin has recently started offering Wildlife Management Services in certain parts of the country. To see if this service is available in your area, and to schedule an appointment, please call (866) 613-0766.