Don’t get kicked out of your own outdoor living space by annoying insects. Fairfax residents can use composite decking, fans, and natural remedies to keep pests out of their space while entertaining or relaxing. Read our tips to make the most of your space.
Switch to Composite Decking
Natural wood is prone to pest damage that could cost you in the long run. Carpenter ants and termites are linked to causing irreversible damage to natural wood surfaces that lead to extensive repairs. Once they affect your outdoor living space, they can cause damage to your home, too.
To deter these types of pests from burrowing into the wooden planks, we recommend making the switch to composite decking. The tough exterior of our composite materials is too hard for burrowing pests to get into. This helps your deck last longer and look its best for years to come.
Add Fans to your Outdoor Space
A great way to get rid of the flying pests at your home is with a circulating fan. Fans disrupt the air movement and deter bugs from flying in the area. Flies, mosquitoes, and other flying insects actively avoid this unstable air current, which makes everyone happy. There is an added benefit to using fans in your outdoor living space. Even on a low setting, a fan can effectively cool down the outdoor space. You and your family can enjoy a comfortable temperature even on the warmest days and a pest-free environment.
Keep Your Patio Clean
Your patio is meant to be a place to entertain. There is nothing better than gathering your loved ones on a warm afternoon and hosting a barbeque with great food. Unfortunately, that extends an invitation to unwanted insects. Food and drinks left unattended or unsealed attract pests. There are a few things you can do to keep pesky insects away, including:
- Ensure all food is sealed or covered when brought outside
- Provide clear cups for guests, as cans and bottles can hide insects that fly into beverages
- Cover or bring food inside immediately after the meal
- Ensure trash can lids have a tight seal or bring them inside
- Clear away all crumbs or spills after the meal to avoid future infestations
Use Citronella Candles
Mosquitos are the biggest nuisance when it comes to spending time outside. When they come out at dusk, it can quickly ruin a relaxing evening. One proven way to keep these insects away is with citronella candles and torches. The citronella in these products masks scents that bugs are attracted to so you can enjoy your free time in peace. These are safe to use next to patios and on composite decks. Just remember to keep all open flames away from outdoor cooking appliances and house siding. If you are using a candle or torches to repel mosquitoes, make sure children and pets stay a safe distance away.
Landscaping Tips
The landscaping that surrounds your patio or deck plays a role in pests that pay you a visit. Overgrown grass, plants and flowers and overwatered surfaces create the perfect environment for these insects to thrive. We recommend carefully maintaining the lawn and landscape around your custom patio design in the Fairfax metro area. Start by keeping your grass trimmed and clear of debris to remove any potential hiding spots. Next, get rid of any trace of standing water on your property. This includes sunken spots in the lawn, clogged gutters and birdbaths. Bugs are naturally attracted to moist areas and multiply quickly wherever water can be found.
To prevent pests altogether, try this natural prevention method. Choose plants that have natural properties that repel insects and keep them away from your entertaining areas. Strategic placement can help keep your outdoor living space and the entrances to your home pest-free.
Keep your Northern Virginia outdoor living area, and your family, safe from annoying pests. To learn more about keeping insects away or to make the switch to composite decking, contact us today. Request your free consultation!