Pest control
Q: When is it time to call for help with a pest control problem?
A: At the first sign of a problem, a Griggs & Browne professional should be contacted to avoid larger pest control problems or health risks to you and your family.
Q: Why should I use Griggs & Browne services versus over-the-counter products?
A: "Do-it-yourself" products sold to homeowners, at retail stores or bought over the Internet, often fail to eradicate an existing termite or pest problem. Griggs & Browne professional services are more effective because our trained technicians not only treat the problem but also help you identify the source, and make recommendations on how to avoid the problem in the future.
Q: Will environmentally friendly products provide good protection?
A: Yes. Griggs & Browne use materials that are EPA registered and follows Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of smart practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.
Q: What are some things I can do to help prevent pests?
A: There are several things you can do, including:
Contact Griggs & Browne, a licensed pest control company, for help in identifying and eliminating rodent problems.
Q: How serious a threat can a little rodent pose in my home?
A: The National Pest Management Association estimates rodents will invade 21 million U.S. homes in one year, looking for food and warmth. Rodents live up to two years and reproduce several litters per year. These vermin can quickly create an active community behind your walls. Even more alarming is the potential for disease spread by rodents in the home, including food poisoning. Rodent urine and fecal droppings not only can contaminate food but also foster the growth of tapeworm eggs. Certain species of mice carry Hantavirus, a virus that can result in a fatal human respiratory disease.
Q: What damage can rodents do inside my home?
A: A rat can squeeze through a hole as small as a quarter, safely drop 50 feet or use its 36-inch vertical jump to enter your home. Similarly agile, mice can chew their way through walls, causing costly damage. Rats, too, can gnaw through lead sheathing, cinder block, aluminum sheeting, glass and electrical wires-a common cause of fire. Rats must gnaw constantly to trim their sharp teeth, which is why they are always looking for something to chew.
Termites
Q: Why worry about termites?
A: Termites are serious pests, whose control is best left to Griggs & Browne professionals. Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year. They primarily feed on wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Besides the monetary impact, thousands of winged termites emerging inside one's home are an emotionally trying experience, not to mention the thought of termites silently feasting on one's largest investment.
Q: When are termite infestations often discovered?
A: Spring typically is when large numbers of winged termites, known as "swarmers," emerge inside homes. In nature, termites swarm to disperse and start new colonies. Triggered by warmer temperatures and rainfall, the winged termites emerge from the colony and fly into the air.
Q: Do I have a problem, if I find a group of dead swarming termites?
A: Termites that have shed their wings and have emerged indoors are incapable of eating wood, seldom survive, and are best removed with a vacuum. They do, however, indicate that an infestation is present.
Q: How will I know if my home is infested?
A: Discovering winged termites indoors almost always indicates an infestation warranting treatment.
Signs of infestation are earthen (mud) tubes extending over foundation walls, support piers, sill plates, floor joists, etc. Termites construct these tubes for shelter as they travel between their underground colonies and the structure.
Termite-damaged wood is usually hollowed out along the grain, with bits of dried mud or soil lining the feeding galleries. Occasionally termites bore tiny holes through plaster or drywall, accompanied by bits of soil around the margin. Rippled or sunken traces behind wall coverings can also be indicative of termites tunneling underneath.
Oftentimes there will be no visible indication that the home is infested. Termites are cryptic creatures and infestations can go undetected for years, hidden behind walls, floor coverings, insulation, and other obstructions. Termite feeding and damage can even progress undetected in wood that is exposed because the outer surface is usually left intact.
Confirmation of infestation often requires the keen eye of an experienced Griggs & Browne termite inspector.
Q: Can I treat the house myself?
A: Ridding a home of termites requires special skills and a knowledge of building construction to identify critical areas where termites are likely to enter. Many of these potential points of entry are hidden and difficult to access. Termite control also utilizes specialized equipment that only professionals have the training to use properly.
Home Inspection
Q: What is a home inspection?
A: A Home Inspection is a detailed visual survey of the home's or building's major structural and mechanical systems. It typically includes plumbing, heating, electrical, central air conditioning, roofing, general exterior, general interior, basement/crawlspace, and attic spaces. Home inspections are useful for potential buyers in considering a new home; and sellers, who are considering putting their home on the market. It is recommend that homeowners get a home inspection every five to ten years to identify and avoid costly repairs.
Q: What should I expect from Griggs & Browne for a Home Inspection?
A: At Griggs & Browne, our certified home inspectors will review our pre-inspection contract with the homeowner or potential buyer, which explains exactly what is included in the home inspection process.
Our home inspection process is a detailed visual and operational survey of your new home's major structural and mechanical systems. It includes inspection of various systems, such as plumbing, heating, electrical, central, air conditioning, roofing, general interior, general exterior, basement/crawl area and the attic spaces.
We strongly recommend you attend the inspection. You will be able to accompany Griggs and Browne during the inspection while receiving a home education.
Usually at the conclusion of this process, you will be presented a comprehensive report, excluding any laboratory testing, such as water or radon (laboratory test results follow in the mail about a week later).
Your inspector will be available after the inspection to answer any additional questions that may arise.
At Griggs & Browne all our inspectors are American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Members.
Q: Are other inspections offered?
A: Yes, Griggs & Browne offers tests for termite and wood destroying insects; radon; septic/cesspool systems; lead paint; and well quality and quantity tests.
Q: Why is Griggs & Browne the best choice for your home inspection?
A: Griggs & Browne has been performing home inspections since 1985. We have saved our clients hundreds of thousands of dollars by helping them make informed decisions. We pledge to provide you with a comprehensive and detailed inspection. And as with all of our services, we are available for questions both before and after our work is complete.
Carpet Cleaning
Q. Once your carpet is cleaned, does it get dirtier quicker?
A. If a professional carpet cleaner uses detergent, residue may be left behind, due to improper rinsing. The residue will collect and trap dirt, causing your carpet to get dirtier quicker. Griggs and Browne pre treats stains and spots while using sophisticated technology to thoroughly clean and rinse your carpets. Detergent residue is not left behind.
Q. How long does it take for my carpet take to dry?
A. Drying times for carpets can vary from four to eight hours depending upon the humidity, ventilation, amount of soil in the carpet, and moisture retention for specific products.
Q. How often should I clean my carpet?
A. Every three to four months.
Q. What should I do between professional cleanings?
A. We recommend that you vacuum at least weekly with a good quality vacuum.
Tile & Grout cleaning frequently asked questions
Q. Why clean my tile and grout?
A. Like your carpet, dirt builds up over time, dulling your tiles appearance and discoloring your grout. Professional cleaning is advised to assure you remove deep-down dirt.
Q. How often should I have my tile cleaned?
A. It depends upon foot traffic. You can extend the time between cleanings by applying a sealant to the grout lines.
Q. How long should I stay off the floor after sealant is applied?
A. Wait at least 30 minutes. It takes 24 hours for sealant to cure completely, so avoid any liquid coming in contact with the sealant during that time.
Q: When is it time to call for help with a pest control problem?
A: At the first sign of a problem, a Griggs & Browne professional should be contacted to avoid larger pest control problems or health risks to you and your family.
Q: Why should I use Griggs & Browne services versus over-the-counter products?
A: "Do-it-yourself" products sold to homeowners, at retail stores or bought over the Internet, often fail to eradicate an existing termite or pest problem. Griggs & Browne professional services are more effective because our trained technicians not only treat the problem but also help you identify the source, and make recommendations on how to avoid the problem in the future.
Q: Will environmentally friendly products provide good protection?
A: Yes. Griggs & Browne use materials that are EPA registered and follows Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of smart practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, and the environment.
Q: What are some things I can do to help prevent pests?
A: There are several things you can do, including:
- Inspect your home's exterior and interior regularly.
- Seal all cracks larger than 1/4-inch. Install weather strips at the bottom of exterior doors.
- Keep your home clean, especially the kitchen. Store all food, including pet food, properly. Do not leave dishes in the sink or pet food out overnight.
- Dispose of garbage in bags and store in lidded containers until removal.
- Keep the yard clean. Place firewood, bricks and debris as far from the home as possible.
- Trim plants, bushes and limbs that hang over the home.
Contact Griggs & Browne, a licensed pest control company, for help in identifying and eliminating rodent problems.
Q: How serious a threat can a little rodent pose in my home?
A: The National Pest Management Association estimates rodents will invade 21 million U.S. homes in one year, looking for food and warmth. Rodents live up to two years and reproduce several litters per year. These vermin can quickly create an active community behind your walls. Even more alarming is the potential for disease spread by rodents in the home, including food poisoning. Rodent urine and fecal droppings not only can contaminate food but also foster the growth of tapeworm eggs. Certain species of mice carry Hantavirus, a virus that can result in a fatal human respiratory disease.
Q: What damage can rodents do inside my home?
A: A rat can squeeze through a hole as small as a quarter, safely drop 50 feet or use its 36-inch vertical jump to enter your home. Similarly agile, mice can chew their way through walls, causing costly damage. Rats, too, can gnaw through lead sheathing, cinder block, aluminum sheeting, glass and electrical wires-a common cause of fire. Rats must gnaw constantly to trim their sharp teeth, which is why they are always looking for something to chew.
Termites
Q: Why worry about termites?
A: Termites are serious pests, whose control is best left to Griggs & Browne professionals. Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year. They primarily feed on wood, but also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. Besides the monetary impact, thousands of winged termites emerging inside one's home are an emotionally trying experience, not to mention the thought of termites silently feasting on one's largest investment.
Q: When are termite infestations often discovered?
A: Spring typically is when large numbers of winged termites, known as "swarmers," emerge inside homes. In nature, termites swarm to disperse and start new colonies. Triggered by warmer temperatures and rainfall, the winged termites emerge from the colony and fly into the air.
Q: Do I have a problem, if I find a group of dead swarming termites?
A: Termites that have shed their wings and have emerged indoors are incapable of eating wood, seldom survive, and are best removed with a vacuum. They do, however, indicate that an infestation is present.
Q: How will I know if my home is infested?
A: Discovering winged termites indoors almost always indicates an infestation warranting treatment.
Signs of infestation are earthen (mud) tubes extending over foundation walls, support piers, sill plates, floor joists, etc. Termites construct these tubes for shelter as they travel between their underground colonies and the structure.
Termite-damaged wood is usually hollowed out along the grain, with bits of dried mud or soil lining the feeding galleries. Occasionally termites bore tiny holes through plaster or drywall, accompanied by bits of soil around the margin. Rippled or sunken traces behind wall coverings can also be indicative of termites tunneling underneath.
Oftentimes there will be no visible indication that the home is infested. Termites are cryptic creatures and infestations can go undetected for years, hidden behind walls, floor coverings, insulation, and other obstructions. Termite feeding and damage can even progress undetected in wood that is exposed because the outer surface is usually left intact.
Confirmation of infestation often requires the keen eye of an experienced Griggs & Browne termite inspector.
Q: Can I treat the house myself?
A: Ridding a home of termites requires special skills and a knowledge of building construction to identify critical areas where termites are likely to enter. Many of these potential points of entry are hidden and difficult to access. Termite control also utilizes specialized equipment that only professionals have the training to use properly.
Home Inspection
Q: What is a home inspection?
A: A Home Inspection is a detailed visual survey of the home's or building's major structural and mechanical systems. It typically includes plumbing, heating, electrical, central air conditioning, roofing, general exterior, general interior, basement/crawlspace, and attic spaces. Home inspections are useful for potential buyers in considering a new home; and sellers, who are considering putting their home on the market. It is recommend that homeowners get a home inspection every five to ten years to identify and avoid costly repairs.
Q: What should I expect from Griggs & Browne for a Home Inspection?
A: At Griggs & Browne, our certified home inspectors will review our pre-inspection contract with the homeowner or potential buyer, which explains exactly what is included in the home inspection process.
Our home inspection process is a detailed visual and operational survey of your new home's major structural and mechanical systems. It includes inspection of various systems, such as plumbing, heating, electrical, central, air conditioning, roofing, general interior, general exterior, basement/crawl area and the attic spaces.
We strongly recommend you attend the inspection. You will be able to accompany Griggs and Browne during the inspection while receiving a home education.
Usually at the conclusion of this process, you will be presented a comprehensive report, excluding any laboratory testing, such as water or radon (laboratory test results follow in the mail about a week later).
Your inspector will be available after the inspection to answer any additional questions that may arise.
At Griggs & Browne all our inspectors are American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Members.
Q: Are other inspections offered?
A: Yes, Griggs & Browne offers tests for termite and wood destroying insects; radon; septic/cesspool systems; lead paint; and well quality and quantity tests.
Q: Why is Griggs & Browne the best choice for your home inspection?
A: Griggs & Browne has been performing home inspections since 1985. We have saved our clients hundreds of thousands of dollars by helping them make informed decisions. We pledge to provide you with a comprehensive and detailed inspection. And as with all of our services, we are available for questions both before and after our work is complete.
Carpet Cleaning
Q. Once your carpet is cleaned, does it get dirtier quicker?
A. If a professional carpet cleaner uses detergent, residue may be left behind, due to improper rinsing. The residue will collect and trap dirt, causing your carpet to get dirtier quicker. Griggs and Browne pre treats stains and spots while using sophisticated technology to thoroughly clean and rinse your carpets. Detergent residue is not left behind.
Q. How long does it take for my carpet take to dry?
A. Drying times for carpets can vary from four to eight hours depending upon the humidity, ventilation, amount of soil in the carpet, and moisture retention for specific products.
Q. How often should I clean my carpet?
A. Every three to four months.
Q. What should I do between professional cleanings?
A. We recommend that you vacuum at least weekly with a good quality vacuum.
Tile & Grout cleaning frequently asked questions
Q. Why clean my tile and grout?
A. Like your carpet, dirt builds up over time, dulling your tiles appearance and discoloring your grout. Professional cleaning is advised to assure you remove deep-down dirt.
Q. How often should I have my tile cleaned?
A. It depends upon foot traffic. You can extend the time between cleanings by applying a sealant to the grout lines.
Q. How long should I stay off the floor after sealant is applied?
A. Wait at least 30 minutes. It takes 24 hours for sealant to cure completely, so avoid any liquid coming in contact with the sealant during that time.
Sleep Tight... And Don't Let The Bedbugs Bite!
Bedbugs once commonly found in motels, boarding houses and second hand storage buildings are now making a comeback in the U.S. where they are increasingly being found in homes, apartments, and dormitories. They are commonly transported in luggage, and on clothing. Once in the home, they can spread quickly over floors, walls and other surfaces.
(Click here to read more.)
Bedbugs once commonly found in motels, boarding houses and second hand storage buildings are now making a comeback in the U.S. where they are increasingly being found in homes, apartments, and dormitories. They are commonly transported in luggage, and on clothing. Once in the home, they can spread quickly over floors, walls and other surfaces.
(Click here to read more.)
Rhode Island
175 Niantic Avenue
Providence, RI 02907
Phone: (800) 924-8886
Fax: (401) 943-8083
175 Niantic Avenue
Providence, RI 02907
Phone: (800) 924-8886
Fax: (401) 943-8083
Eastern Massachusetts
140 Brockton Avenue
Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (800) 244-1012
Fax: (781) 871-5584
140 Brockton Avenue
Abington, MA 02351
Phone: (800) 244-1012
Fax: (781) 871-5584
Connecticut
152 Cross Road
Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: (800) 962-3296
Fax: (860) 447-9063
152 Cross Road
Waterford, CT 06385
Phone: (800) 962-3296
Fax: (860) 447-9063
Cape Cod & Islands
203 Main Street
Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
Phone: (800) 339-2212
Fax: (508) 759-5284
203 Main Street
Buzzards Bay, MA 02532
Phone: (800) 339-2212
Fax: (508) 759-5284
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