Does mulch attract termites?

• <div><p>No, mulch itself does not necessarily attract termites even though it’s usually made of shredded wood. Some types of mulch like cedar or cypress <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/proactive-tips-avoid-termite-damage-your-home.htm">resist termites</a> because they’re toxic or unappetizing to the wood munchers. However, when the mulch is deep enough, say three inches or more, it creates a perfect habitat for insects of all kinds to build nests.</p></div>

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Q: What's the difference between fruit flies and gnats?

• <div><p>While the term &ldquo;gnat&rdquo; is often used as a blanket term for tiny flying insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies, they are different insects. The primary distinctions are in their appearance, diet, and habitat. Fungus gnats are typically darker (gray or black) with long legs and are attracted to damp soil and decaying plant matter, often living in houseplants. In contrast, fruit flies are lighter in color (tan) with shorter legs and are drawn to overripe fruit, high-fructose organic substances, and other sweet materials.</p></div>

Q: What smells attract roaches?

• <div><p>Cockroaches are attracted to the smell of food. They're particularly attracted to grease, meat, cheese, sugar, and starch. Any rotten food such as fruits or vegetables puts off a strong odor that attracts the pests as well. Even dirty clothing can be enticing for cockroaches, which is why they're often found in laundry baskets.</p></div>

Q: How effective are bird repellents?

• <div><p>Using audio and visual methods to discourage birds might work initially, but birds tend to acclimate to them over time. While chemical deterrents can show some effectiveness, their results can be inconsistent. Some may dissipate too quickly, and there's a risk they might cause unintended damage to your surroundings. Additionally, birds might become immune or resistant to the impact of such treatments.</p></div>

Q: Can bugs in wood furniture spread to other areas of my home?

• <div><p>Termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles can move from wood furniture to other areas of your home. If you notice signs of bugs in wood furniture, it's best to remove and isolate it for treatment. Remember that it can be difficult to identify which type of pest you are dealing with, and they can already be in areas of your home.</p><p>If DIY methods don&rsquo;t work or you don&rsquo;t know which pest it is you should contact an exterminator if you are showing signs of wood-eating pests to prevent further damage.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Pest Control pros in Akron, IA

*The Angi rating for Pest Control companies in Akron, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Pest Control needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Pest Control companies in Akron, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Pest Control needs.

Last update on May 18, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
Quality company with reliable service. Always do a great job for me.
Ymker Insulation
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Reviewed in August 2025
Yes it was an excellent job with very little damage done to the yard
605 Firewood and Tree Services LLC
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Reviewed in August 2024
Mr. Crawford ( sorry I can't remember your first name). Was very professional and did not waste time talking. He set up quickly and was finished in no time. We had some mold on our siding and it no longer exists!! It looks brand new again and it's 15 years old. Thank you!!!
Crawford's Services LLC
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Reviewed in October 2023
Well worth the money and left the grove cleaner then when they got here. Even picked up a pile of brush I hadnâ t gotten to yet.
Tree Tech Inc
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Reviewed in August 2023
Don't use Venmo if paying with a credit card. Some treat it as a cash advance, and charge 30 %. That's not Jeremy's fault. I would definitely hire him again. He did all the work alone, and in some serious heat. He really cares about his customers, and it shows. I can't recommend him higher.
Vision Lines Painting
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Reviewed in August 2023
Clear communication is paramount during a move. Zebna Movers took it to the next level, ensuring that I was informed at every step, eliminating any confusion or uncertainty.
Zebna
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Reviewed in November 2022
Dan came when he said he would & cleaned out the sewer line that had a few tree roots growing in it. Did a very good job & was pleasant to take to.
Dan's Drain & Duct Cleaning, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2022
They are professional and quick.
B+P Construction
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Reviewed in April 2022
Very professional, thorough job and they were timely.
Turn Around Lawn Service, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2021
Good quality work every time.
Joel's Tree Service
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Find Pest control specialists in Akron

Terminix® Pest Control

4.5(

)

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Very knowledgeable guy who seem to know what he’s doing. Don’t know results of spraying. Have had much rain since. Will have to see if it worked. Terminex will spray again the beginning of next month."

51 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"We found evidence of termite infestation. They responded quickly and inspected property the following day. Price was reasonable and employee was knowledgeable. He explained scope of work and options thoroughly. We added pest control as additional price was very reasonable. Work was performed the following day and we are satisfied with service."

Recommended by83%of homeowners

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"From sales, termite application, and pest control Price Termite & Pest Control where professional and friendly. I was able to watch the treatments and they were exactly what was explained to me in my first meeting - no deviation or shortcuts. I highly recommend this company"

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

When it comes to protecting homes, Terminix has satisfied more customers than any other insect and pest control company in the industry, with more than 15 million service visits annually.

Recommended by62%of homeowners

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Bakker Critter Control

5.0(

)

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I had three bushes that were very old and infested with wasps and hornets. Mr. Bakker sprayed them and eliminated the insects, and then he cut the bushes down for me and sprayed the stumps, and then also raked everything up, and hauled the limbs to the city dump. He did a wonderful job and I am so appreciative. I would recommend him for any job."

Response time3 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

"I doubt that you can find any harder working people than Paul Dawson & his daughter of Ace Animal Control. We couldn't be any happier with them & their services. Long story short, the squirrels are gone & they can't get back in again. Thanks Ace ! Alan Schrank God Bless"

Response time2 days

Response rate97%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,688

)

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"United Air Temp was able to procure a replacement furnace controller board in a couple of days and Zachary was out within 4 days of the initial visit. The furnace now works very well."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Plunketts pest control

New to Angi

Serving Akron, IA and surrounding areas

Hi, my name is Braydon, and I’m a Pest Control Technician with Plunkett’s Pest Control. If you ever have any questions about insects, rodents, or pest issues in general, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help!

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Pest Control questions, answered by experts

While the term “gnat” is often used as a blanket term for tiny flying insects like fungus gnats and fruit flies, they are different insects. The primary distinctions are in their appearance, diet, and habitat. Fungus gnats are typically darker (gray or black) with long legs and are attracted to damp soil and decaying plant matter, often living in houseplants. In contrast, fruit flies are lighter in color (tan) with shorter legs and are drawn to overripe fruit, high-fructose organic substances, and other sweet materials.

No, mulch itself does not necessarily attract termites even though it’s usually made of shredded wood. Some types of mulch like cedar or cypress resist termites because they’re toxic or unappetizing to the wood munchers. However, when the mulch is deep enough, say three inches or more, it creates a perfect habitat for insects of all kinds to build nests.

Cockroaches are attracted to the smell of food. They're particularly attracted to grease, meat, cheese, sugar, and starch. Any rotten food such as fruits or vegetables puts off a strong odor that attracts the pests as well. Even dirty clothing can be enticing for cockroaches, which is why they're often found in laundry baskets.

Using audio and visual methods to discourage birds might work initially, but birds tend to acclimate to them over time. While chemical deterrents can show some effectiveness, their results can be inconsistent. Some may dissipate too quickly, and there's a risk they might cause unintended damage to your surroundings. Additionally, birds might become immune or resistant to the impact of such treatments.

Termites, carpenter ants, and wood-boring beetles can move from wood furniture to other areas of your home. If you notice signs of bugs in wood furniture, it's best to remove and isolate it for treatment. Remember that it can be difficult to identify which type of pest you are dealing with, and they can already be in areas of your home.

If DIY methods don’t work or you don’t know which pest it is you should contact an exterminator if you are showing signs of wood-eating pests to prevent further damage.

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