bird_pest_control

8 Tips for Safe and Effective Bird Pest Control

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Bird pest control services are necessary for nearly every building to prevent structural degradation, safety dangers, and health threats to both people and birds. While it’s ideal for constructing a bird-safe and a bird proofing building from the start, knowing how to retrofit structures with bird-proofing features is always beneficial.

According to Buildings.com, “By far, glass is the leading culprit behind the danger of buildings. For every additional 10% of glass coverage, bird strikes go up another 19%. And as glass buildings continue to fill the skylines, bird deaths will only go up. However, make no mistake, high-rise buildings are not the main culprit. Buildings that are 10 stories and under account for the vast majority of collisions. In fact, 44% of all building-caused bird fatalities occur with those less than four stories tall.”

Today’s building owners are conscious of how their buildings impact local wildlife, including birds. Yet, they may still struggle to find the right strategy to reduce the impact of birds on their patrons and visitors. Furthermore, proper bird control is a greater part of pest control, particularly among insects, and it’s more complicated than the traditional pest control strategies. After all, a multi-story building will lead to safety issues and additional challenges that may occur. Fortunately, following a few tips can help a building’s owners and managers safely and effectively improve bird pest control and pest control bird removal. 

1. Install Bird Pest Control Devices

Building owners and facility managers have expressed severe reservations about using bird-proofing materials in their structures. There are few things more detrimental to birds than buildings. Bird pest control and insect control are not as simple with multi-story facilities and can create safety issues. Much like the need for a clear plan for elevator maintenance, bird control needs to start simple and expand from there. 

There are various highly effective options for bird pest control around business buildings and structures. These are all harmless plaza deck maintenance and regular upkeep tasks to distract and deter birds from hanging around, nesting, and breeding in buildings, preventing structure deterioration and maintaining pest control. Depending on the scenario, each bird pest control option has a time and place for usage. Here are three types of bird pest control, what each entails, and core considerations when using them.

  • Visual Deterrent Devices: Predatorial decoys keep birds away from the building and provide a safe bird pest control option. These are simple to install and highly effective for short periods. Plaza deck maintenance with visual deterrents may be an eyesore, so place them out of sight to building occupants and visitors. 
  • Audio Deterrent Devices: Sound devices provide a humane and effective pest control option without affecting the building and occupants. These devices transmit sounds that travel  hundreds of feet, giving warning signs for all incoming birds to stay away. These ultrasonic sounds are effective with all bird breeds while being inaudible to humans.
  • Spikes, Netting, and Wires: These options can be used depending on the type of bird pest control needed. Placement options include ledges, HVAC units, gutters, and anywhere else that attracts birds. These deterrents do not cause discomfort or pain; they just keep birds from landing on the specified areas. 

2. Encourage Employees to Avoid Behaviors That Attract Birds

Birds tend to congregate where they can find food. Encourage employees to properly dispose of trash and food in outdoor areas and avoid intentionally feeding the birds. Keeping areas free of uneaten food and crumbs is an excellent way to maintain bird pest control, so clean and maintain all outdoor break areas regularly.

According to Nature.com, “Urban birds during suboptimal years expanded their diet to include a variety of different prey types such as amphibians and trash.” Birds flock to garbage cans and dumpsters; therefore, it is vital to ensure that these are all properly closed and secured. Garbage is highly unhealthy for birds to consume, posing an even further risk. Consuming plastic and metals can cause blockages within the birds and destroy their insides. Also, rotting food forms bacteria that are detrimental to birds.  

Eliminate any standing water from rain and liquids from spills. These precautions restrict access to the birds’ food and water supply and keep birds away from the building, improving the overall bird pest control. 

3. Consider Installing Automatic Doors

The presence of human activity is a natural deterrent to birds. They spook easily and often fly away with the movement of humans. Open areas such as loading docks and entryways are a deterrent and aid in bird pest control. But automatic doors serve a dual purpose. Automatic doors stay closed without movement censoring them open. They also create intimidation for birds as the doors open and close, prompting them to fly away. 

4. Eliminate Fruits in Landscaping/Foliage

It is common knowledge that birds love fruit and flowers. Birds also love insects. Plants and foliage with flowers and berries are like heaven to birds and insects. Prevent birds from nesting and hanging around by avoiding attractants such as the food that they eat. Shrubbery and foliage are attractive and great for shading and aesthetic appeal; just steer clear of the bird appetizers.  Eliminating fruits in landscaping and foliage that attract birds also means fewer needs for insect pest control. 

Fruit trees and shrubs bear fruit, and sometimes this fruit falls to the ground and rots. As previously mentioned, rotting food is detrimental to birds. As the fruit rots, it produces bacteria and chemicals, is highly harmful to birds, and attracts insects. For example, Mulberry trees are prone to excessive fruit droppings by the multitude and can be a nightmare for building management and bird pest control.

5. Maintain an Insect Control Program

Insect control has multiple benefits. Insects are a massive nuisance to building occupants and guests, especially near eating areas. Swatting away flies and bees while trying to sit and enjoy a nice dinner does not exactly sound appealing. Insects attract birds. Therefore an effective insect control program will address both of these issues.  Adequate waterproofing maintenance and insect control programs will naturally lead to pest bird control. 

The toxic chemicals in pest control kill insects. Birds that eat these insects could die. Therefore,  use non-toxic products for pest control to avoid injuring or causing death to birds. 

6. Ensure All Bird Pest Control Service Providers Follow Industry Regulations

Birds play a significant role in the environmental ecology; therefore, following all industry regulations is vital in bird pest control and building management. Many wildlife species are protected by local and federal laws, including migratory birds, and can require a different prevention approach in pest bird control. 

7. Inspect Your Building for Common Areas Where Birds Will Congregate

Lofts, eaves, steeples, foliage in plaza deck systems, and eating spaces are all common areas where birds gather and create bird pest control issues. Inspect these areas constantly to ensure all crevices and openings are sealed and secured to prevent flocking and nesting. HumaneSociety.org recommends building management “Attach wood or metal sheathing (Birdslides) at a 45- to 60-degree angle over window ledges and other flat surfaces to keep pigeons from landing.”

Pay close attention to clogged ventilation, corrosion, and drainage problems. These are all indicators of potential  bird pest control issues and need to be addressed as soon as possible to maintain bird pest control and reduce your costs of future repairs. Birds love to nest in HVAC systems and chimneys, which leads to clogged ventilation and poor air quality, sometimes even carbon monoxide. Bird feces is acidic and causes corrosion to all parts of the building. Lastly, nesting in gutters and downspouts leads to drainage issues that can cause pooling, water damage, and flooding.

Enable Effective Bird Pest Control by Partnering With The JOBS Group.

With a few simple strategies, a building can be virtually birdproof, allowing for the health and safety of building occupants and the birds themselves. Eliminating a bird-friendly and inviting environment while following wildlife regulations will provide a clean, healthy, and safe atmosphere. Enable effective bird pest control with the value of an expert and contact The A1Orange Group today.

bird_proofing_services

An Overview of Bird Proofing Buildings

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Building owners and facility managers have implemented bird proofing services into their facilities management tasks. Building bird proofing services are required on virtually every building to prevent structure deterioration, safety hazards, and health risks to humans and also to the birds themselves.  

You might be asking yourself, “what is bird proofing?” When someone hears the phrase “bird proofing,” bird safety may not be the first thought that comes to mind. However, it is a major concern to building managers and occupants and its impact on the ecology of the area. With the growing concern and attention drawn to bird safety, “bird-safe material is dropping in cost, and it has already been shown to be economically viable in new projects. In fact, in many cases, opting for bird-safe designs accounts for less than 1% of total costs. And as more attention is brought to the importance of bird-safe buildings, expect these prices to continue falling”, according to Building.com.

What Are Bird Proofing Building Services?

Building owners and facility managers are taking steps to eradicate bird concerns within building management. Birds pose a plethora of health and safety concerns and can cause millions of dollars in damage to the building plaza deck system, facades, roofs, and walkways. What is bird proofing? Bird proofing services are an essential component of building care that cannot be ignored. Effective bird proofing services will protect the occupants, birds, and surrounding environment. 

Signs That a Building Needs Bird Proofing:

  • Clogged Ventilation – HVAC and chimney ventilation is a sign of bird damage to the building. It can lead to poor air quality and cause health risks to building occupants and surrounding areas. Poor ventilation can even lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. 
  • Corrosion – Birds’ feces is acidic and causes corrosion to substrates, roofing, signs, paint, and building exterior. The acidity can disintegrate the roof over time, which can lead to the roof collapsing. Corrosion can also affect machinery, such as the exterior HVAC system. Building owners and facility managers must take the appropriate steps to catch these issues before they cause extensive damage. 
  • Poor Drainage – Birds love to build nests in gutters and drain pipes leading to poor drainage. If the building is having drainage problems, it might be time to implement bird proofing services to the facility. Drainage issues quickly lead to flooding, pooling, water damage, and potentially even further damage. 

Risks Involved in Bird Proofing

Building owners and facility managers have shown major concerns associated with installing building bird proofing materials. Fewer things are more dangerous to the lives of birds than buildings. The main cause of harm to birds is the glass on the building. Reflections distract the birds, causing them to injure themselves. Windows can also trick birds into thinking there is nothing there, and they will try to tunnel through, slamming into the window. Artificial lighting is another cause of injury for birds and interrupts their migratory paths. Garden areas in commercial plazas can also lure in birds.  

It must be understood that birds play a major role in environmental ecology. Birds are natural pollinators, spreading seeds to continue and maintain growth within the areas. They also protect plants and other vegetation while controlling the pests and other rodents that cause damage to occupants and will impact the surrounding area. 

Fortunately, there are many ways to protect the birds from further harm. With some minor and major bird proofing services, the building owners and managers can find comfort in knowing that they are not only protecting the facility but the ecosystem as well.

Types of Bird Proofing in Modern Buildings

Owners and managers have gotten creative in coming up with ways to deter birds while maintaining the safety of building occupants and the ecological effects on the environment. There are many types of bird proofing services that can be implemented in modern buildings. Each one has a time and place for its use, depending on the situation at hand. Below are three types of bird proofing services, what each consists of, and considerations to take into account when to use them.

  • Bird Spikes, Wires, and Netting – These solutions come in many different shapes and sizes, depending on what type of bird it is being used on and what area of the building it is being used. These items are placed on ledges, over gutters, AC units, and anywhere else that birds may want to land. These prevent birds from being able to access and enter the building. While spikes may sound painful, they do not inflict pain on the birds. They merely prevent them from landing on the surface. 
  • Visual Deterrent Devices – Install visual predatorial decoys to deter birds from entering and landing on the building. These are easily installed bird proofing services and are highly effective for short time periods. Lasers are also another way to irritate birds and discourage them from hanging around. Keep in mind that visual deterrents can be an eyesore, so be sure to put them in a location that is out of sight to customers and occupants. 
  • Sound Devices – Audio deterrents are human, effective, easy to use, and can send out signals from acres away. They are also effective on multiple types of birds, no matter breed, size, or shape. Sounds that mimic the distress sounds of birds are another effective sound deterrent. It sends out a warning to other birds that there is trouble and to stay away. Ultrasonic sounds are another form of sound device that is silent to the human ear but sends out an irritating sound to nearby birds. This may sound cruel, but it is actually quite harmless and just an annoyance to the birds. 

Building owners and facility managers would reap the most benefits by hiring an outside expert when choosing the right design plan to minimize disruptions caused by birds. Experts have the knowledge, training, and experience to know what bird proofing services are best for each facility and provide lasting results, protecting the structural integrity of the building without interrupting the flow of the day-to-day business. 

The Benefits of Bird-Proofing Expertise and Outsourcing. 

Every year, birds cost businesses millions of dollars in property damages, maintenance, and replacement. Building owners may avoid costly roof maintenance, restoration, and repair 

and unsightly messes with proper building bird proofing. There are tons of benefits and reasons to implement bird proofing services in your building. 

The overall appearance of the building improves when there are no visible bird droppings and nests overhanging in gutters. It also cuts down on maintenance and cleaning. 

Experts are aware of the harm that birds can cause to humans if diseases are passed. Bird droppings can carry many diseases and can be transferred to humans, posing a major health and safety risk. This should always be left to the professionals to remedy with the proper safety gear and equipment. 

Bird proofing services will also save the facility money in the long run. Bird droppings are very acidic and can cause extensive damage to multiple parts of the building, including major appliances like the HVAC system and the roof. Choosing to ignore a bird problem will lead to major structural damage and restoration, not to mention the inconvenience of having to relocate people while repairs are done.

Enable Better Bird Proofing

Building bird proofing and design considerations are essential to almost every building structure to avoid damage, safety dangers, and health risks to both humans and birds and eliminate bird issues in building management. Birds may inflict millions of dollars in damage to buildings, posing a variety of health and safety problems. Effective bird proofing services will protect not only the building but also the ecological status of the surrounding environment. Experts truly understand that bird control is not just for the protection of the building but for the protection of the birds. Enable safe and effective bird proofing services and contact The A1orange Group today!

stadium Concrete Repairs

Types of Stadium Concrete Repairs and How They Impact Structural Integrity

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A stadium is a tiered structure for people to observe an event. Without proper stadium concrete repairs and maintenance, the safety of observers is at risk and therefore cannot be overlooked or ignored. Even flashing on roofs or other items can lead to premature wear and tear. Maintaining and repairing stadium concrete will enhance the structure’s appearance, overall structural integrity, and the safety of patrons. 

A 2022 article on TileLetter.com says that the new home of the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers is the “first open-air, indoor-outdoor stadium constructed with more than 70,000 seats, including 260 luxury suites, with expansion capabilities that will accommodate up to 100,000 guests.” SoFi Stadium is an indoor and outdoor facility that needs routine and preventative stadium concrete repairs to maintain the life and longevity of the structure. 

Early detection of problems saves money and prevents the need for a complete replacement. Below are some of the most common implemented maintenance tips for stadium repairs.

Replacement of Spalling Concrete

Concrete is constantly exposed to the weather and free-thaw cycles. These cycles decrease the structural longevity of concrete. It creates spalling, which can indicate more serious issues. The damaged concrete needs to be removed immediately and replaced with new concrete. Applying sealers and waterproofing membranes will increase the life of the product. This is a stadium waterproofing solution that is requisite to the longevity of the stadium. 

Rebar Coatings to Reduce Damage

The wet and dry cycle of the environment will eventually cause corrosion of steel rebar. When corrosion occurs, it reduces the bond strength of the concrete and rebar, leading to significant problems. Applying rebar protective coatings helps fend off corrosion. The use of corrosion inhibitors provides a protective layer that is a physical and chemical barrier between steel rebar and the environment. This stadium concrete repair is one of the most effective and efficient solutions to reduce damage.

New Sealants to Waterproof Exposed Surfaces

Waterproofing sealants and materials help stadiums and structures last longer by minimizing water absorption and freeze-thaw damage. The waterproofing sealant must withstand all types of weather. Ensure all gaps, fractures, and exposed surfaces are sealed and waterproofed. This stadium waterproofing solution creates protection and a barrier between the stadium and water infiltration. 

Specialty Membranes for High-Risk Areas

Specialty waterproofing membranes for stadium concrete repairs will increase the structure’s functionality, especially in high-risk areas such as the restrooms. Concrete is naturally very porous, allowing acidic liquids such as urine to penetrate and absorb. This leads to several issues, including corrosion, odors, and concrete damage. With various types of membranes available, ensure the correct specialty waterproofing membranes are applied to avoid these issues. 

Below-Grade Drainage and Waterproofing

Below-grade systems are essentially below ground, allowing for even more moisture infiltration as it seeps in from the soil and into any exposed cracks or pores. If not waterproofed and drained correctly, multiple issues will arise, including the presence of mold and mildew. Below-grade drainage and waterproofing is a stadium concrete repair vital to the stability of the stadium structure and the stadium waterproofing solutions. 

Expansion Joint Repairs

By design, expansion joints in a stadium absorb and release the stress created by natural expansion and contraction. Extensive cracks can spread throughout your stadium if joints are missing or damaged, causing substantial damage such as buckled concrete. Expanding joints should be inspected and repaired immediately if damaged and never ignored to prevent further damage and safety hazards. 

Handrail Repairs

Constant use and weather conditions create considerable wear and tear on outdoor railings, jeopardizing the structure’s stability. The presence of cracks in the concrete supporting the handrail structure indicates corrosion and therefore requires stadium waterproofing solutions and repair to any damaged railing. Handrail repair or replacement is imminent to avoid safety hazards.  

Enhance Stadium Concrete Longevity and Strength by Partnering with The JOBS Group

Following the tips for preventative stadium concrete repairs will prolong the structure’s lifespan. Inspecting regularly and acting fast saves money and prevents significant complications. Enhance your stadium longevity and strength by partnering with The A1orange Group today!