We spoke last month about TAP® Insulation, and how this pest-killing insulation can defend your home from a variety of potential insect infestations. If you want to know about the basics of the technology and an overview of what it can do for you, you can find all of that in our previous blog. If you read through that already and found that you have some questions, that’s exactly what we plan to help with now. Below you’ll find some more detail about TAP and its benefits.

TAP® Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What’s Boric acid? Is it safe? 

A. Boric acid is a naturally occurring chemical compound that takes the form of a colorless crystal or white powder. It’s antiseptic, which makes it a handy component of any first aid kit. It’s also a great cleaning agent, as it can remove stains, deodorize, and kill mold. But the reason why it’s used in TAP Insulation is because it’s one of the most effective pest-killing compounds available. In small amounts, it isn’t strong enough to harm larger pests, animals, children, or adults but it should always be handled carefully and installed by a professional.

Q. How long does it take to install TAP®? How long will it last?

A. The length of the initial installation depends on the size and structure of the space you want to insulate. Typically, the process of blowing the cellulose into the attic, floors or wall takes between four to six hours. Once it’s added, though, it has the potential to last for decades without needing to be replaced.

Q. Will TAP® save me money?

A. We’ve noted that TAP has the capabilities to prevent pest infestations from forming. Because of that, you’ll likely spend less on est control treatment than homes in your neighborhood without TAP Insulation. Not only that, but the insulating qualities of TAP allow your HVAC appliances to use less energy, resulting in lower monthly utility bills. With all that taken into consideration, it’s easy to see how this one installation can quickly pay for itself.

Q. Do I need to prepare to install TAP® Insulation? 

If you have damaged insulation, it’s always recommended to remove it before installing TAP. Otherwise, if you have intact cellulose or spray foam, you can easily install TAP over it for an additional layer of pest-free* protection.

Q. What are the downsides of TAP® Insulation?

TAP insulation is fire-resistant, and it doesn’t lose effectiveness over time. However, since it’s made of cellulose it can be vulnerable to water and runs the risk of mold. If you have a leaky roof or water intrusion in your attic, this could be an issue. It also has a mid-tier R-value that’s higher than fiberglass, but not quite as high as spray foam insulation.

Preventative Pest Control in Central TN

TAP Insulation is one form of preventative pest control, and an effective one, but there are others. Here at The Bug Man, we’ve been keeping pests out of homes in Central TN for over 20 years. If you’re interested in making it harder for pests to get into your home, we can help. Contact The Bug Man today to learn more or get your free quote today!

As we head into wintertime in Central TN, we all want to find a way to stay warm. Unfortunately, the insects in our area have the same thought in mind. If you are faced with an infestation, you already know that you can rely on The Bug Man for residential pest control services. But the only thing better than eradicating a pest infestation is preventing one before it starts. So how can we do that?

TAP® Pest Control Insulation can lower your energy bills and dampen the flow of sound between your walls and attic. It can also kill and deter most insect pests without you having to do a thing. Want to know more? Let’s go into it below.

What is TAP® Insulation?

TAP stands for Thermal, Acoustical Pest Control. It’s made up of cellulose, particularly recycled newspaper, and it can be applied easily over any existing insulation. All a technician needs to do is blow the material into your walls or attic, and once it settles it’s ready to work.

What separates TAP® Insulation from other varieties is that the cellulose in it is treated with borate. These mineral salts are in a concentration that doesn’t affect humans but is deadly for most insect pests. The borate coats the insect and is then ingested as they clean themselves. Once inside, it effectively disrupts their digestive process and they eventually starve. And that’s only part of the benefits of TAP®.

Thermal, Acoustical, Pest Control Benefits

A major appeal of TAP® Insulation is its pest-killing properties. It’s capable of controlling most small pests like ants, termites and booklice, as well as larger insects like stinkbugs and cockroaches. And it remains effective for as long as it’s present, so there’s no worry about replacing it, unless the insulation gets damaged.

Aside from that, TAP® Insulation also does all the things you want from your home insulation material. It can save you up to 30% on your annual energy bill, and the product is Energy Star certified and has a UL Classification.  And if you install at a level of R-60 or more in your attic you can almost completely eliminate outdoor noise.

All of that just from some recycled newspaper!

TAP® Insulation from the Bug Man

For 20 years we’ve strived to keep homes across Central TN pest-free* all year long. Winter is a time to celebrate with loved ones, not worry about pests big or small. That’s why we offer TAP® Insulation for any household in the area, as well as a qualified technician to make sure the job is done right. The Bug Man knows how to clean house and save you time, money and trouble. To get started, contact us today!