What do we do? Archives - Standish Property Maintenance & Pest Control

Gutter Cleaning Wigan

Gutter Cleaning

Throughout the year your gutters collect more than just rain water. Roof debris, leaves, animal droppings, moss, seeds etc all build up. This debris causes blockages allowing vegetation to grow.

Roof debris in the valley

Gutters are there to carry the rainwater quickly away from your roof. This protects the brickwork and foundations from becoming damp. When the gutters become blocked water can pour over either sides or ends of the gutters.

Roof debris blocking the gutter and catching moss

There are several products on the market to prevent this debris getting into the gutters. Many of which are a quick fix to a long-term problem. They catch the debris in turn becoming blocked up. Known as ‘Gutter Guards’ or ‘Hedgehog Gutter Brush’, these are simply a waste of your money and make cleaning a lot harder.

Note the gutter guard at bottom centre of the picture

Certainly, in areas of mass tree population, having Standish Property Maintenance clean your gutters once or twice a year is the best way to avoid blockages. Many tiled roofs have problems with moss. Moss is in many ways worse than leaf fall, when it comes to blocking your gutters.

Left long enough you can have a garden growing in your gutter

Andy and Megan use a gimmick free technique to clean and clear your gutters of all this debris. They check your downspout carries all the water away and isn’t blocked. Most of what is removed is compostable. Therefore, it generally ends up in the green bin.

Birds drop all sorts in the gutter including sunflower seeds

The main issues we face, include:

- Bad workmanship
- Physical damage
- Animal fouling’s
- Weather damage
- Different profile of gutters

We have done one job, were the gutter was full in its entire length of one side of the house, with pigeon droppings. The picture below was that job. The Solar PV system pictured allowed pigeons to nest on the roof and clear their spoil into the gutter. A health and hygenie risk for both us and the householder from below. We counteracted this by fencing the edges off with a mess specific for this task.

Included in our work is a health check of the gutters and downspouts. If there is a problem or damage. We would attempt to correct it there and then. Or explain the issue to you. In rectifying the problem, we always prefer to use new parts and have the gutter configured as it should be. Our last option is to reach for the silicone gun.

Extremely poor workmanship here. The new estate off Rectory Lane, this is common on these £300k srcset= houses!” width=”525″ height=”700″>

Recently, Standish has had many new houses built along Rectory Lane. We have been called out to more issues on this estate than anywhere else in Standish or Wigan. If your gutters are leaking, it’s more often down to poor quality of work. Examples of this are shown in some of our pictures.

Incorrectly assembled gutters showing cheap work for a high cost!

So many times, we have gone out to gutter leaks where the installer has neglected to screw up unions or outlets. Using sealant to fix this at £5 a tube is reckless. A clean cloth, a screw and 5 minutes will generally be enough to cure a drip.

This is not how it should be done!

In addition to leaking gutters, a blocked downspout, again often due to poor install is a common occurrence. Joints and sockets are best adhesive and fixing free. Rather, wall brackets spaced no further than 1.5m apart, support its length is best practice.

An example of how good our cleaning options can be

Bends and joints fixed with screws, always seem to catch leaves or moss. Thus, collecting more and more that prevents water running away.

So many problems with the workmanship of these new builds its quite frankly unbelievable

Further to our gutter and downspout clearing we can offer the full clean down. Cleaning of the Gutters face, the Fascia, the Soffit, Barge boards and all pipework. We do this largely by hand using detergents and upvc specific cream cleaners. Added to our arsenal is a long reach jet wash and various types of ladder.

The picture depicts perfectly how the levels of this gutter are wrong.

Any time of year is ideal for either type of clear or clean. But often the full clean is done in spring and the clear in Autumn / Winter. Whenever you see fit to have either done, give us a call on 07920001980 / 01257431837 or use our contact page. We will do our very best to assist you and guide you through how we do it and what it is likely to cost.

Advice for pet flea control

Flea Identification

Known for biting humans, the Cat Flea is most common. The Bird Flea, followed by the Dog Fleas, are less common. There are Human Fleas which are much rarer. All require Professional flea control.

- Appearance – Adult fleas are tiny (2mm) wingless insects. They have flattened red-brown bodies. With legs designed for jumping covered in spines.
- Life cycle
  - A parasitic insect, fleas live on warm-blooded animals.
  - Females lay eggs after feeding on the infested animal. Over their two-year life span they can, they can lay up to 1000 eggs. Eggs are laid on the floor or the animal’s bedding and after several days develop into larvae.
  - Larvae live in the bedding of the host and feed on skin, feathers and the blood-rich faeces of the adult flea. Once fully grown, the larvae spin well camouflaged silken cocoons called Pupa.
  - The fully developed adult flea remains cocooned until it senses the vibrations of a potential host. Only then does it emerge to feed on the blood of the infected animal.
  - This complete life cycle takes about a month in the summer.

Disease

There is little evidence that fleas spread disease in the UK. Although, flea bites can cause irritation. Differing both in the degree of reaction and time taken to react.

Signs of a Flea Infestation

Pets constantly scratching is likely to be the first sign. This can be confirmed in light coloured animals by brushing back the hair. In dark coated breeds it may be better to comb the animal over a sheet of paper to highlight any flea droppings as they fall. The identity of the black specks may be confirmed by adding a few drops of water if they turn red, your pet has fleas.

You might spot bites on you or family members, usually around ankles and legs. In humans, flea bites can produce an irritating and allergic reaction. The typical symptom of a flea bite is a small red spot about 5mm in diameter.

If you have an active infestation, you may see fleas jumping in your carpet and furniture.

The important bit WHAT NOT TO DO!

- Use flea bombs – Flea bombs are not an effective method of flea control. The pesticides released do not penetrate the carpets or other fibres where the flea eggs and larvae are likely to be hiding. Using a flea bomb can put your family and pets at risk due to the chemical residue that remains after use and should only be used in extreme circumstances where there is a massive flea infestation.
- Use cheap pet treatments – Advantage and Frontline are both the recommended flea treatments for Cats and Dogs by Vets. There are many others that are known to cause suffering to your pets detailed all over the internet.
- Ignore it – it won’t go away and it will get worse. Call a professional and treat you pet.

What to do?

For a flea infestation, we strongly recommend you contact a professional pest control company. Standish Pest Control will have the technical knowledge and access to a range of professional use insecticides which are not available to the public.

It’s difficult to prevent your pets from getting fleas. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your chances of getting them:

- Treat the cause –In liquid or tablet form buy a well-publicised and recommended treatment specific to your pet, not the cheapest.
- Vacuum – Before an insecticide treatment, clear as much floor space as possible to ensure that treatment is as thorough as possible. Vacuuming all areas helps to remove any debris, eggs, larvae and adult fleas. The vibration of the vacuuming also stimulates adults to hatch from their cocoons. Removing the dust collection chamber outside the house into your wheelie bin. Wash the collector with hot soapy water, again do this outside.
- Wash bedding – Collect all bedding, throws, rugs and clothing and wash them in soapy water – washing liquid will do. The soapy water is known to kill the eggs, larvae, pupae and adults.
- Treat the symptom – 95% of fleas live in the home rather than on your pet. Treating your home for fleas with a professional grade residual insecticide, either as a liquid spray or powder. Applied to all floor surfaces, soft furnishings and pet bedding. Not vacuuming or washing bedding for at least two weeks, will ensure the residual insecticide will have ample opportunity to work.

Flea control sprayer and product

What caused the infestation?

One of the most common ways is from your pet playing outside or taking a walk. When your pet walks through or lies in leaf litter or grass clippings, fleas can jump up on your pet’s fur.

Feral cats that may be roaming the neighbourhood or wild animals such as rabbits, hedgehogs’, badgers or foxes can be carriers of fleas.

Kennels are another perfect place for your pet to pick up fleas. So, treatment before and after their visits should ensure they don’t pick any up and bring them into your home.

How long will it take?

Our flea control treatment will remain active for many weeks. Its residual life will vary depending upon the cleanliness and nature of the surface to which it is applied and how often you vacuum or mop the areas. We recommend its left for a minimum of 2 weeks before any cleaning commences.

Is the pesticide harmful to me, my kids or my pets?

Our wet treatment is safe to humans and animals once dry. Treated premises can be re-occupied by adults, children, pets and other animals once the sprayed surfaces have dried.

How can we prevent it happening again?

- Treat all the pets in your home regularly with a suitable flea treatment.
- Regularly wash your pet’s bedding on a hot wash.
- Use a long-acting household spray regularly.

Tip: Pets with fleas can also develop tapeworm, which is carried by fleas. Pets groom and swallow fleas with tapeworm eggs inside as part of the tapeworm lifecycle and these then develop into worms in your pet’s gut. If your pet has had fleas, use a worming treatment that covers for tapeworms as well as flea treatments.

Never use a flea treatment for dogs on your cat – this can be fatal. Many flea treatments for dogs contain permethrin. This chemical can be fatal to cats. Make sure you use a flea treatment specifically for cats and check all household flea sprays for permethrin before you use them around your cat.

If you think you’ve got a flea infestation, have read this article and still want help or advice give us a call for a friendly chat. We will guide you through what to do and how much flea control will cost. Check out our contacts page for details.

Fascia and soffit cleaning

Gutter, Barge Board, Pipework, UPVC, Fascia and Soffit, Cleaning.

Megan and Andy love Fascia and Soffit cleaning of homes around Standish and Wigan. Using gimmick free techniques and modern cleaning products they restore them to their former glory in no time. When done together with the emptying and cleaning of the gutters, it really adds to a smart maintained look and curb appeal of your home.

Fascia and Soffit cleaning

A variety of grime, dirt, algae, cobwebs and pollution cause your fascia and soffits to look dull and tired. This accumulation of dirt is mostly noticeable on white UPVC, dulling the overall appearance of your property. If you allow this grime to remain there, it will be tougher to remove and cause permanent staining. To ensure your UPVC is also kept intact and in top condition, it’s important to have fascia and soffits cleaned. Keeping your gutters well maintained should be a priority because aside from the aesthetic side of things, they protect your home from rain water ingress.

Fascia and Soffit cleaning before and after

Using a variety of brushes and cloths, along with a UPVC restoring cream cleaner to revive your fascia and soffits. We ensure that every inch of your UPVC is pristinely cleaned. Our long reach jet wash allows us to get to those hard to reach areas such as above conservatory roofs which might be hard to get to with ladders alone. Its variable pressure makes it the ideal tool to blast the more stubborn marks. Whilst on its gentle pressure to rinse everything clear.

You can book a fascia and soffit cleaning on its own. If you’re looking to get your home looking as good as new, we also offer a UPVC deep clean package. This includes the cleaning of all UPVC including fascia and soffits, gutters, windows and pipework.

Gutter, Fascia and Soffit cleaning

What will be cleaned?

All fascia, soffits and gutters are cleaned. If you request a UPVC deep clean, this would also include the windows, doors, cladding and all pipe work.

How often should UPVC fascia and soffits be cleaned?

The time between cleans will depend largely on the location of the property. If you live next to a busy road or woodland for example. Your home will be exposed to much more pollution which can build up over time. If you start to notice a build-up then it’s probably time to get them cleaned!

Do you use Pressure Washers to carry out the clean?

Yes, we use our variable pressure jet wash. This ensures the hard to shift grime gets a good going over and then the whole job gets a gentler rinse down. So we will require and outside tap and access to some electrical point.

What if my Fascia & Soffits are very dirty?

We generally get fascia and soffits looking like new, even if they are very dirty. But, occasionally the build-up of grime has sat for a long period of time. So, it may have permanently stained white UPVC making it very difficult to remove. The rainwater downspouts often suffer from lime scale build up that can be difficult to remove. We will always let you know if you UPVC may be stained to ensure you have realistic expectations on the results of your clean.

Do you clean the inside of my gutters?

Yes, UPVC fascia and soffit cleans include the inside and outside of the gutters.

For a friendly andf reliable quote call us on 07920001980 or 01257431837. Alternatively contact us using the contact page and we’ll try to help you.

Japanese knotweed

Japanese knotweed (JKW) is a plant that can grow and spread quickly from Spring to Autumn. During the Winter months, the plant dies back leaving dead bamboo-like stems exposed. It emerges from its roots called rhizomes to grow to over 2m tall. Successful eradication takes several years requires with chemicals treatment being the most successful. Recent changes in legislation covers its control.

Thick green and red coloured bamboo type stems

What is Japanese knotweed?

European adventurer Philipp Franz von Siebold is documented as transporting JKW from a Japanese volcano to Leiden in the Netherlands. In 1850, a specimen from this plant was donated by Von Siebold to the Royal Botanic Gardens, at Kew.

Japanese Knotweed has large heart shaped leaves.

Commonly known as Japanese knotweed or Fallopia Japonica, has a bamboo like green / red coloured stem with large green heart shaped leaves. Starting in the Spring Japanese knotweed grows very quickly, flowers (inflorescence) July / August and drops leaves (senecence) in September / October. Above ground it fully dies back over the winter. They can remain dormant for several months or longer. The Rhizomes (roots) lie dormant until the following year or for many years. The creamy-white flowers produced in late summer and early autumn fortunately cannot pollinate which is great news in regards its control.

After Glyphosate treatment Japanese Knotweed forms smaller rosettes

What is the problem?

Japanese knotweed can regenerate from very small sections of leaf, stem or rhizomes. I have been to a job were the customer had used a strimmer to try and kill some Japanese knotweed. Unfortunately for him it was able to regenerate from most of the mess he had caused.

The Legal standing.

Under the provisions made within Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offence to cause Japanese knotweed to grow in the wild. Even pulling up shoots or stems and putting them in your council green waste bin is an offence!

The juvenile Japanese Knotweed has thin stems but the mature plant has thick hollow bamboo like stems

Fly tipping should be reported to The Environment Agency, free-phone number 0800 807060.

Since 2013, the seller of a property is required to state if Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is present on their property through a TA6 form – the property information form used for conveyancing. Your conveyancer or solicitor will be able to provide full legal advice.

If you are buying, the presence of Japanese knotweed will be detailed on the TA6 form. This often results in mortgage lenders requiring assurances that it will be eradicated before agreeing the funds. A treatment plan by a Standish Property Maintenance& Pest Control, backed by a transferable guarantee, is usually sufficient. It is most common for this plan to be provided and paid for by the seller before the purchase is completed.

The lack of a treatment plan can result in delays, increased costs later in the buying process, or even a possible misrepresentation claim after the sale, so a proactive approach to the infestation will help avoid problems.

Stem injection herbicide treatment

New legislation

An amendment to the ‘Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014’ includes invasive non-native plants such as Japanese knotweed. It is not illegal to have Japanese knotweed in your garden. However, you should aim to control this invasive non-native plant to prevent it becoming a problem for your neighbours. If it has a “detrimental effect of a persistent or continuing nature on the quality of life of those in the locality”, the legislation could be used to enforce its control and property owners may be prosecuted.

Before treatment

When Japanese knotweed infestations occurring on property boarders, we would always suggest that you speak with your neighbours. They may already be taking action to control the Japanese knotweed. An informal approach usually helps ease the tension of what can be for some a worrying problem. If this fails to work contacting your council to talk about action under the legislation would be the next step.

You could consider control yourself for a small, isolated infestation. However, Standish Property Maintenance & Pest Control are skilled and experienced at control, ensure eradication and can advise you on how best to tackle your problem.

For more information see The Environment Agency Information Note: Japanese knotweed Control

Non-chemical control

Digging out Japanese knotweed without professional help, creates problems over disposal. Japanese knotweed has been classed as ‘controlled waste’ under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Requiring disposal at licensed landfill sites. Registered waste carriers must be used to safely remove the weed from site.

On no account should Japanese knotweed be included with normal household waste or put out in green waste collection schemes.

Weedkiller control

It usually takes at least three to four seasons to eradicate JKW using high strength herbicide. At Standish Property Maintenance & Pest Control we have access to Professional Grade Herbicides that may reduce this period. The product label will state the use is for Japanese Knotweed. Situation dependant we either spray wipe or stem inject a high concentrate of Glyphosate to eradicate the whole plant.

Japanese Knotweed can grow up to 7ft tall

In a few cases resilient sections of rhizome may continue to produce some leaf growth known as leaf rosettes. Mop up treatments must be carried out on these to prevent further infestations. They are very different in appearance to the normal plant and it is essential that this regrowth is treated.

JKW a week after Glyphosate treatment via stem injection

Bear in mind that the home gardener will not get an insurance backed guarantee without using a professional company for the control of Japanese knotweed. This may be important if planning to sell your property in the near future or if a neighbour is threatening litigation from the spread of knotweed from your property. It is often less expensive than most people worry about as documented in the press.

If you have any questions, queries or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact us for help or advice. Its always quickest to call us on 07920001980, but if you have a lot to ask or require some detail use our ‘contact‘page.

Wasp Nest removal Wigan

Wasps in abundance

Over the last few weeks we have carried out more Wasp Nest removal in Wigan than we thought possible. Now that could be down to several factors. We have been doing this for 10 years so pretty well established. From Wigan Council’s Good Trader Scheme we have won several awards for great feedback and customer service. Our social medial presence and the customer reviews we receive are bigger and better than ever. The weather has also been perfect for wasps to be on the increase.

Biggest nests in August / September

One thing for sure is that the Common Wasp really is thriving. Unfortunately, it seems to be more and more in and around our homes! I truly believe that this is due to a lack of its natural habitat as we expand our housing estates. Another thing that seems to be getting bigger is the sheer number of wasps in a single nest and the physical size each nest is growing to by the end of the season.

What a whopper

Wasps in the loft

Small football sized nests in the boxing of a fascia and soffit area or hanging in a loft space or shed are relatively simple to remove. But imagine a hot summers day of 20 degrees plus outside and you’ve found a wasp nest in your loft. So you call Standish Pest Control to help you get your holiday suitcases down. When they arrive to remove the troublesome wasp nest in your loft the find the loft full of clutter. Andy needs to wear an all-encompassing bee suit and gloves. Up to 3 layers of clothing underneath to protect from the long stinger. The loft is not only cluttered it hasn’t got floor boards. Its raging hot up there like a furnace!

Shed roof nest, Wasp Nest removal in Wigan

The lull before the swarm

Approaching the nest cautiously, Andy of Standish Pest Control is now lied prone crawling closer to the wasp nest. He is blocking much of the poor lighting making the job that bit harder. Sweat runs down his face making his eyes sting. Trying not to disturb the nest until the last second he positions his catch bucket under the nest. Pressurising the insecticide applicator ready to cover the nest before the alarm goes off and he’s covered by a swarm of angry wasps. He dusts the outer skin of the nest, the entrance and surrounding areas. This helps knock down those first out of the nest before it’s captured.

Extractor fan nest, Wasp Nest removal in Wigan

Removal of a wasp nest

Quickly making a grab for the removal tool and releasing the wasp nest from its purchase on the roof lining. Andy expertly catches it in the bucket, swiftly sealing the lid on to prevent escape. The remaining wasps will receive the ‘good news’ in due course. Any remnants of the nest are collected by hand or using a litter picker if out of reach.

Swam of angry wasps

Getting out of the loft is for a pest controller as precarious as getting in. The only difference is he has a bucket of super angry wasps under his arm. And a group of their mates swarming around his head!

CCTV Nest

What to expect

Once out of the loft with all materials and tools recovered back to the van. Andy the pest controller takes off all his PPE and downs a load of cold thirst quenching juice and takes a few minutes to recover. A full explanation of the removal of the wasp nest and what the customer should expect to encounter in the coming hours and days.

Velux window, Wasp Nest removal in Wigan

What happens next

The bucket containing the treated wasp nest will stay sealed for 24 hours to ensure all wasp die off without stinging anyone. The nest can then be incinerated or composted.

Golf ball nest, Wasp Nest removal in Wigan

Other place you can find wasps

Removal from a roof or gutter line is a similar affair, the main differences are the open air and working at height. But for Andy a loft is far harder and more daunting a task due to the enclosed nature making escape, injury or damage more likely.

Wasps under the roof tiles Wasp Nest removal in Wigan

What happens if……?

“I dread to think what would happen if I were to pass out or go into anaphylactic shock whilst in a hot loft”, fortunately Andy’s daughter Megan works alongside him and has the means to help or get help should it be required. Should any damage occur whilst in the loft, up a ladder or on the roof Standish Property Maintenance have both the means and the insurance to correct. After spending close to 20 years in the roofing industry Andy is comfortable both on a ladder or roof. Priding himself removing wasp nests with the highest degree of accuracy.

Wasps in the valleys Wasp Nest removal in Wigan

What to do:

If you find that you need a Wasp Nest removal in Wigan, you should not try and tackle it yourself, especially at this time of year when they’re getting very large. Contact Standish Property Maintenance & Pest Control in Wigan on 07920001980. They will help carry out the Wasp Nest removal in Wigan.

There’s a rat in my garden, what am I…

How can I be sure that it’s a rat?

Rats are medium-sized, long-tailed rodents. Generally, when someone discovers a large rodent, it’s commonly labled a rat, if it is smaller, its suspected to be a mouse.

Where might you find rats around the garden?

- Compost heaps – attract rats because they are warm and contain food. Check lid and base of composters for holes.
- Decking – the edges of decked areas for signs of damage from gnawing and burrowing.
- Drains – damaged covers or holes dug next to the drain covers.
- Garages – check for gaps around door frames or holes gnawed at the bottom of wooden doors.
- Sheds – entrances to burrows around the edges of sheds and out buildings.
- Vegetation – look for rat holes around tree and shrub roots, in overgrown vegetation.

What are the signs of a rat infestation?

Rats are most active during the night so often easier to spot the signs of a rat infestation than see the rat. Signs that could indicate that you have a potential rat problem are as follows:

- Burrows – rats dig extensive burrow systems for shelter, food storage and nesting.
- Gnaw Marks – Simliar to our finger nails, rodents teeth continuously grow. So they have to keep them sharp and short by gnawing.
- Nests – shredded materials are used to make nests.
- Rat Droppings – are dark brown in a tapered, like a large grain of rice.
- Smear Marks – Grease and dirt from their bellies leaves smudges on surfaces.

If you have spotted any of the signs mentioned, we recommend acting quickly to ensure the potential infestation doesn’t grow any bigger.

How quickly can rats reproduce?

The rat can breed throughout the year if conditions are suitable, with a female producing up to five litters of 7 – 14 pups a year. The gestation period is only 21 days. They reach sexual maturity in about five weeks.

How many descendants could a pair of rats produce in three years?

The answer: nearly half a billion. That shudder-worthy fact comes courtesy of pest control experts Rentokil, who put together an interactive projected labelled “The Rise of The Rats” to visually show just how crazy this cycle can be if left unchecked. (source: qsrmagazine.com)

What problems can be caused by Rats?

Rats are vectors of a wide range of disease-causing bacteria, viruses, parasites and worms. They also carry many diseases through their own parasites such as fleas, ticks, lice and mites. Some of the common diseases spread by rats are:

Leptospirosis (Weil’s disease) is spread in the urine of infected animals, most commonly rats. You can catch it from:

- soil or freshwater (such as from a river, canal or lake) containing infected pee gets in your mouth, eyes or a cut, usually during activities like kayaking, outdoor swimming or fishing.
- you touch an infected animal’s blood or flesh, usually from working with animals or animal parts.
- It’s very rare to get leptospirosis from pets, other people or bites. It’s rare in the UK.

Salmonellosis s a symptomatic infection caused by bacteria of the Salmonella type. The most common symptoms are diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. Symptoms typically occur between 12 hours and 36 hours after exposure, and last from two to seven days.
Bubonic plague is an infection of the lymphatic system, usually resulting from the bite of an infected flea, Xenopsylla cheopis (the rat flea). The bacteria enter through the skin through a flea bite and travel via the lymphatic vessels to a lymph node, causing it to swell. Several antibiotics are effective for treatment. Without treatment, plague results in the death of 30% to 90% of those infected typically within ten days.
Toxoplasmosis a parasitic disease. Infections with toxoplasmosis usually cause no obvious symptoms in adults. Occasionally, people may have a few weeks or months of mild, flu like illness such as muscle aches and tender lymph nodes. In small numbers eye problems may develop.

How do we reduce the infestation and prevent its return?

On our initial visit we investigate your findings and develope a treatment plan that usually involves traps or rodenticides. We also aim to reduce any causes of their arrival at your property such as remove food or harborages. This includes blocking up of access routes or burrows and improvements in house keeping.

Safe use of Pesticides

In 2015 the HSE in consultation with the Campaign for Responsible Rodenticed Use (CRRU) launched the UK Rodenticide Stewardship Scheme. The scheme aims to restrict the availability of rodenticide products ensuring that they are used responsibly.

The rodenticide scheme rules will apply to anyone who is buying or selling rodenticides over a 1.5kg pack size.

A bait box showing the partially consumed bait and inspection date plaque

Is the rodenticied likely to hurt my pets, kids or customers?

Rodenticide baits are not only poisonous for rodents but can be lethal to any mammal or bird that ingests them or feeds on a poisoned rodent. Using rodenticide baits puts pets at high risk of becoming ill or dying either through direct ingestion or by eating poisoned rodents .

All rodenticide bait or traps should be in a lockable container that only allows access by the target rodent. Our customers are given a clear understanding of what the bait we are using and how to react should they suspect their pet or child has injested rodenticide.

If you suspect that your pet has been exposed to rodenticides, take immediate action and contact your vet. A comprehensive list of pesticide safety data sheets is here.

How can we help you?

If you have found signs you think are potentially a rat infestation, don’t worry we’re here to help. Call or contact us for a fast response to get identification or treatment underway quickly.

Drone survey technology for roof and property surveying

Drones are often thought of as kids toys or extremely high end and expensive bits of film kit used on such programs as the BBC’s ‘Blue Planet’. When infact they are more often utilised in the survey of buildings or property. Drone surveys are now a common replacement for the naked eye.

What is a drone?

Drones are more commonly known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In its most basic form, a drone is a flying robot that can be remotely controlled by a pilot through software-controlled flight plans in their embedded systems, working in conjunction with on board sensors and GPS. Ideal for building, roof and property inspections, drone surveys are the safest option.

Why is using a drone better than in person?

It’s Safer – Why send someone to work at height when you can send a drone. Falls from height:

- are the third highest cause of fatal injury, comprising 20% of fatal accidents
- cause around 80 major injuries each year
- result in a further 230 over-3-day absence injuries each year can result in serious or even fatal injury even when the fall is less than 2m.

It’s Cheaper – Having a drone to complete a survey is a more cost and time effective method of completing a survey compared to hiring a cherry picker or erecting traditional scaffolding. The physical impact of a person on a roof is likely to cause some damage. Using a drone will prevent this additional cost implication.

It’s Faster – Most of our work is completed in minutes or hours. We can quickly scan the whole roof to view faults that can be then looked at in greater detail.

How much does it cost?

The cost varies from domestic to commercial to industrial. Contact us with your needs and we will explain our pricing.

Drone Roof Survey & Inspection

To inspect the roof of a building properly using all the modern health and safety practices is a time consuming and expensive exercise. Piloting a drone to complete a building survey not only brings significant cost savings but can add greater detail to roof inspections or structural reports.

Employing modern drone technology to complete a roof inspection or building survey, there are many additional benefits. Some of which include reduction in downtime for businesses, no need for access platforms or erections on site, access routes no longer closed or reduced.

We can offer you:

• Roof Inspection / Survey Tree and roof survey

• Property aerial photography Roof inspections made safe and simple using a drone

• High-Resolution Photography

• Insurance Surveys Insurance Survey Images

Drone Inspection Images

Our drone has its own High Definition camera that will take clear and detailed inspection photographs. We aim to utilise these images and footage to show you the condition of your property without costly demands of scaffolding, MEWPS or dangers of mounting the roof from a ladder.

Taking images,using our drone for property inspections can be completed in a short period of time. An aerial survey completed by Standish Property Maintenance will help identify structural problems with pitched and flat roofs and defects along roofline or brick work.

Survey Photography Analysis

Coupled with Andy’s 17 years experience in the roofing industry, we work alongside a Chartered Surveyor. Together they can offer a report on the imagery the drone captures. This can lead to preventative maintenance measures you can complete.

All too often insurance companies refuse to pay out due to contributory negligence. So a detailed property survey and photographic evidence could help you fix any smaller issues before they become too big.

Training and Insurance

We are currently working to secure the UK’s drone qualification – the Permission for Commercial Operation (PfCO) with Heliguy. This qualification will ensure we have full authority to fly within the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidlines.

CONTACT US

We cover all of the North West – If you think we can offer you a service please don’t hesitate to give us a call or use the contact page link. Don’t forget to leave us the property address so we can work out any access issues or foreseeable problems and help us build a competitive and fair price for you.

Don’t let the Bedbugs bite

What are Bedbugs?

Bedbugs are small insects that are found in furniture or bedding. Bedbug bites can leave the victim feeling very itchy and there may be painful swelling. Adult bedbugs are oval, wingless insects, which are about 5-7 mm long.

An adult Bedbug on the pillow

They have a flattened body which allows them to hide in cracks and crevices. Unfed, they’re pale yellow / brown in colour, but after biting a host and full of blood, they become larger in size and red / brown colour.

Bedbugs have biting mouthparts that form an elongated sucking tube used to pierce the host’s skin. With three pairs of skinny legs that have tarsal claws for clinging on during feeding.

How can I check if it’s bedbugs?

Adult Bedbugs are around 5mm long and are dark yellow, red or brown in appearance. Common symptoms of an Bedbug infestation include:

- - Bites – on exposed areas like the face, neck and arms
  - Blood spots – from the bites, droppings or from squishing a bedbug

What is the life cycle of a Bedbug?

- - Lifespan usually 4-6 months
  - Females lay average of 2-3 eggs per day in cracks and crevices.
  - Eggs hatch after about 12 – 14 days at >23˚C
  - Newly hatched bedbugs feed on the blood of vertebrates and during each change.
  - There is a total of 6 life stages.
    - Egg > 1^st instar > 2^nd instar > 3^rd instar > 4^th instar > Adult

Do they spread disease?

No evidence exists of bedbugs being vectors of infections or diseases to people. However, Bedbug activity can cause considerable distress. Reaction to their bites varies from little or no reaction to severe reactions or sleepless nights.

What do they eat?

Bedbugs bite to take blood meals hence why we see them as pests. Blood provides them with the nutrients necessary for life and reproduction. Commonly they prefer human hosts, but in their absence, bedbugs will feed on a variety of rodents and birds.

Where do bedbugs live?

During the daytime, bedbugs hide in dark and dry places found around household furniture. floorboards and between mattresses and beds. At night, bedbugs crawl from their hiding places to feed, after which they return to digest their blood meal.

How much of a nuisance are Bedbugs?

Their preference for human hosts, leads bedbugs to live in close proximity to people. Consequently, causing substantial nuisance through their blood-feeding habits. These bites cause itching and redness for most people.

How do you treat bedbug bites?

Bedbug bites can be very itchy and there may be red painful swelling locally. A severe allergic reaction known commonly as anaphylactic shock is also possible but rare.

“Bedbug bites usually clear up on their own in a week or so.”

You can reduce itching and any swelling by covering with a cold compress. Ensure the affected area is kept clean. Avoid getting an infection by not scratching the bites

If the discomfort worsens, speak to a pharmacist about using a mild steroid cream. Although, antihistamines may help if the bites are very itchy and you’re unable to sleep.

Speak to a GP if the bites are still very painful, swollen or itchy after trying treatments from a pharmacist and / or the redness around the bites is spreading. You may have an infection and need treatment with antibiotics.

How can the infestation be treated?

Inspection –

- - Determine the extent and source of infestation.
  - Bed frame, bedside furniture and other furniture, electrical fittings and appliances, underneath carpet edges and skirting, wallpaper and paint if loose, curtains and any wall hangings.
  - Signs include the presence of live bedbugs, cast off nymphal cuticle, and hatched or unhatched eggs.
  - Small dark brown or black marks on the bed sheets or mattress.

Chemical Treatment –

- - A residual spray application to the floors, walls and furniture.
  - Targeted treatment of cracks and crevices.

The suggested treatment routine, shown below, utilises a mixture of insecticide groups and formulations, ensuring an integrated approach to control and resistance management.

- - 1st Treatment – initial treatment
  - 2nd Treatment – after 2 weeks
  - 3rd Treatment – after 4 weeks

It’s unlikely you’ll be able to get rid of bedbugs yourself. They show some resistance to some insecticides so it’s always best to contact your Standish Pest Control.

Do’s

- - Wash affected bedding and clothing – using a 60deg and tumble dry on a hot setting for at least 30 minutes.
  - As an alternative to hot washing put affected clothing and bedding in a plastic bag in the freezer for 4 days.
  - Vacuum regularly – regular cleaning will help you spot and remove them.

Don’t

- - Keep clutter around your bed.
  - Bring second hand furniture indoors without carefully checking it first.
  - Take luggage or clothing indoors without checking it carefully if you’ve come from somewhere where you know there were bedbugs

Standish Pest Control in Wigan have the tools to treat the bedbug infestation in the safest way possible.

Our application of control measures in line with current best practices. We have Public Liability insurance, qualifications and experience that cover us to treat pest infestations accurately and efficiently.

Call to action

Quite often, we find our customers feel nothing short of overwhelmed by some of the work they need doing. We stop at nothing to explain thoroughly what needs doing. Describing what we will do it and ultimately what it will cost. We want to help you feel confident in us and the value of our work.

Rest assured that your problem won’t be the biggest we’ve seen or the smallest we’ve treated. We will be able to help, just need you to get in touch.

Call us on 07920001980 or use our contact page and tell us what the problem is.

Joke: When does a pregnant bed bug give birth? In the Spring.

Slate repairs required in Wigan

Generally speaking, slate repairs are normally visible from the ground. Quite often you can see a slate missing or a slate has fallen off the roof to the floor. A missing slate is obvious. However, a cracked slate may still be visible from the ground but harder to spot. A slate with a large corner missing may be visible from the floor. Slipped slates and vertical cracks in the slates, can be almost impossible to see without a close-up inspection from a ladder.

Safe access to the roof.

The best way to assess and check for less obvious damage is to us a ladder. Mounted on the roof, a Cat Ladder* will allow you to look the roof over to look for slippage, cracks and nail failure of surrounding slates. It is very common that the one slipped slate we’ve been asked to look at is actually three or four.

We usually ask the same few questions of a customer to try and understand what is causing the problem. Above all, roof leaks are always inconvenient but they are not always signs of a larger issue.

When a roof starts to leak.

A very common type of leak is caused by wind driven rain. However, we often have customers wondering why they are getting leaks after a storm when it rained a few days ago and it didn’t leak? Wind driven rain is rain propelled by wind and it often blows horizontally. Therefore, water ingress that would otherwise be impossible with regular rainfall is still likely to blow into the crevices of your roof.

Storm damage.

Your roof is designed to shed water downward, not from the side. A wind driven rain at the perfect angle can create leaks your roofing system isn’t designed to prevent. It’s most likely you have a leak caused by wind driven rain if your roof does not leak in every downpour. If you have no felt liner under the slates you’re more prone to roof leaks. A true problem requiring flashing or slate repairs, would leak every time and it would most likely leak in the same spot.

Don’t worry.

Wind driven rain is rare and not an indicator of slate repairs required. If you are not sure, you can always contact us via the contact page on our website. We are happy to give you reassuring advice or even come out and take a look.

*A roof ladder also known as a cat ladder is for when you need to work on your roof safely. Simply put, a roof ladder a ladder with two hooks attached on the end. The hooks allow it to attach over the ridge tiles of a roof securing the ladder. Above all, it makes it safe to move arond the roof while giving a base to balance and complete work from.

An extension ladder is needed to climb on to the roof as a roof/cat ladder is not a standalone ladder. Using roof ladder link clamps and TETRA safety kits to make them more secure and less likely to slide apart when transferring from one to the other.

To get the cat ladder in place it has wheels to allow you to push it up the sloping roof . Without dislodging or damaging roof tiles or slates you simply turn the ladder over. The hooks securely lodge on the ridge of the roof.

How can we help?

After reading our post, you feel like you have any questions or are in need of a reassuring chat. If you don’t feel confident, or don’t hve the tools, ladders or courage to tackle slate repairs yourself. Please feel free to give is a call on 07920001980 or an email and we will do our best to help.

Ridge tile repairs and repointing

What are ridge tiles?

In its simplest form, the ridge of a roof is the peak where two opposing roof planes meet. Or to be more specific, the “highest point on a roof, represented by a horizontal line where two roof areas intersect, running the length of the area.” On the horizontal apex of the roof, ridge tiles are used in conjunction with either concrete tiles or slate.

What are the different types of ridge tile?

Generally, there are three styles of ridge tiles: half round, angled and ornamental. Each of which has several variants such as size, colour, fixing, joint type and material.

How are the ridge tiles fixed to the roof?

Using mortar as a weatherproof ridge tile adhesive has lasted the test of time. That said, mortar’s inability to sufficiently cope with environmental changes and its regular need for maintenance pave the way for new technical advancements.

Legislation.

The latest European Standards, state the of fixing of ridge tiles must be dry fix. BS 5534 and more recently BS 8216:2018 state that mortar should no longer be used as the only means of fixing tiles and fittings onto roof ridges, with mortar-only applications limited to certain repair jobs and heritage properties only.

Maintenance free.

Possibly easier to install, dry ridge systems, such as Marley Eternit’s Universal RidgeFast is designed to provide a totally dry fixed and weathertight ridge that is fast and simple to install. Every ridge tile is mechanically fixed eliminating the need for mortar completely. The system is suitable for use with all Marley tiles and slates and those of other manufacturers.

What is a dry fix system?

A dry fix ridge system is the method of mechanically fixing ridge tiles to the ridge of a roof without the use of mortar. In many circumstances, dry ridge systems are the perfect alternative to more traditional cement and mortar joins. Well known brands such as Marley, have produced dry ridge systems that offer excellent quality and value. A dry ridge kit is fast to install and once in place offers a firm, durable seal that’s virtually maintenance free. When it comes to a dry ridge system vs mortar, many tradesmen find the former easier to install and more economical.

What is meant by a wet fix?

Any fixing system that claims to be “wet” is one that uses cement as the primary method to secure the roof tiles in place. While most people think that cement is a strong material that’ll last forever, the truth is often very different.

What causes tile to come away or be blown from the roof?

When a roof on a typical house is constructed, the weight of the tiles presses down onto the roof timbers and there’s some flexing and movement. Most new houses will experience between 5-30mm of movement in the roof. This usually occurs within the first few years after construction. While this is quite normal, it does have an effect on the cement which is holding the tiles in place. Cement doesn’t like movement, it often cracks or crumbles and during installation is susceptible to frost and rain.

Insurance Claim.

Needless to say, a tile like this could be blown off the roof on a windy day and kill someone. In 2010 the NHBC (National House Builders Council) saw a 60% increase in the number of claims relating to pitched tiled roofs. Most of the claims were as a result of cement failure.

How can it be repaired?

Repointed ridge tiles in Wigan — Repointed ridge tiles

Either through your home insurer or from your own pocket, a contractor would be best employed to fix the roof. Their superior knowledge, skill and equipment are not to be ignored when paying for this repair. Roofs are high and dangerous places, working on them should not be undertaken in jest.

Storm Damage.

On 3rd of January 2018 the Telegraph reported “Storm Eleanor, which swept across the country overnight carrying heavy rain and winds of up to 100mph, has left thousands of homes without power and caused substantial damage to property.”

Act of God?

Reporter Sophie Smith went on to say “Part of an insurer’s job will be to see whether the damage was the result of the storm or due to a lack of general upkeep, which became apparent because of the storm. Roof damage is one area where assessors will be looking for signs of poor maintenance. If ridge tiles blew off in a high wind, surveyors may look for signs that the mortar had perished.”

Is storm damage covered by house insurance?

Homeowners insurance may help cover certain causes of storm damage, including wind, hail and lightning. However, damage caused by flood and earthquakes typically is not covered by a standard home owner’s insurance policy. In other words, it’s important to read your policy to learn what types of storm damage may or may not be covered.

Contributory negligence

A defence available where it is proved that the claimant‘s own negligence contributed to its loss or damage. In laymans terms this means if you have failed to maintain your roof (emptying gutters, repointing ridge tiles etc), the insurance company could suggest that the damage caused by the storm could have been avoided and may not pay out.

What is involved in a successful repair?

Repointing involves scraping away the loose mortar and replacing with new. Possibly, some homeowners will request this type of job when the mortar is loose and found in the gutter line or on then floor. For a typical semi-detached property, the cost for ridge pointing is between £120 and £250.

Working at heights.

Our repair techniques follow industry standards and best practices. We have Public Liability insurance, qualifications and experience that cover us to work up to 10 meters high. Access from either a ladder, mobile scaffold tower or MEWPs. Therefore, we can be more acurate with what we do and how we do it.

How can we help?

After reading our post, you feel like you have any questions or are in need of a reassuring chat. Please feel free to give is a call or an email and we will do our best to help.