Red Concrete Bugs – How To Get Rid Of Concrete Mites

Concrete mites, also known as red concrete bugs or red spiders, generally cause limited damage to homes and gardens. However, these tiny pests can become a big problem if left uncontrolled, especially if they begin infesting your property in large numbers.

When you have an abundance of concrete mites, you may start to notice stains on patio furniture due to their droppings.

In large numbers, red concrete bugs may also cause damage to plants and grasses, depending on their species.

And while some do consider certain types of red concrete bugs to be beneficial mites, it’s important to use a routine form of pest control to keep them at manageable numbers.

But how do you get rid of red concrete bugs? Well, in order to get rid of these concrete mites and prevent them from coming back or getting out of control, there are several things that you will need to do.

But First, What are Red Concrete Bugs?

Red concrete bugs are not actually bugs at all. They are actually arachnids.

Red concrete mites, sometimes known as red concrete bugs, sidewalk mites, or red spider mites, describe a few different species of mites that are most active during spring and summer. They are generally harmless to people and pets, and they can cause very little damage to plants or grasses in large numbers. For this reason, these mites are often considered simply nuisance pests.

In fact, red concrete bugs are sometimes even seen as beneficial mites because as nymphs they prey on smaller arthropods that are more damaging to plants than they are in their adult stage.

However, once they reach adulthood, red concrete bugs can become problematic if their numbers get out of control.

Red concrete bugs are seasonal pests most active from spring through fall. They are often found outdoors breeding in warm, humid environments, and are capable of creating up to two generations a year.

This pest enjoys the sun and feeds primarily on other mites. They are considered predatory mites, which is one of the reasons they can be considered beneficial. These fast-moving mites are arachnids, meaning they are related to spiders and other animals like ticks or scorpions.

They have eight legs, are bright orange or red in color, and are commonly found on sidewalks, driveways, and stone pathways, hence their name.

But why do you have red concrete bugs around your home or property? Keep reading to find out.

Why Do I Have Red Concrete Mites? Understanding What Causes Red Concrete Bugs

There are several different species of red concrete mite.

Although concrete mites can be considered beneficial, they can also be annoying and even disturbing in large numbers. And because these pests are able to reproduce quite rapidly, it’s not uncommon to see quite a few around your property.

But why do you have so many red concrete bugs around your house? Well, there are several reasons.

1. They are attracted to moisture.

Red concrete bugs are attracted to moisture, so if you have areas of your property that aren’t getting enough sunlight or ventilation (like under the deck), this may be a good place for them to nest and lay eggs. This is especially true if there is also a source of water nearby (like rain gutters).

2. They are looking for food sources.

Concrete mites feed on other insects and sometimes even pollen, so if you’ve noticed an increase in red concrete bugs in one particular area of your property, it could be because they’re finding an ample food source there. A common food source for red concrete bugs includes other pests such as aphids or scale insects.

3. They are attracted to sun and lights

If you notice an increase in red concrete it could be because you live in a well-lit area and these pests are highly attracted to the sunlight and sometimes even light from your home or business. While they are generally most active during the day, you could see them out and about at night if your home or garden is well-lit.

4. They are laying their eggs on moist concrete surfaces near your property.

Another reason you may be seeing an abundance of red concrete bugs is that these pests may be laying their eggs near your home or property.

The eggs of these mites are mostly laid on moist concrete surfaces. This means that if you have a leaky pipe under your house or porch, you may see more red concrete bugs than usual.

The female red concrete mite lays her eggs in clusters on the surface of moist concrete. They prefer to lay their eggs on the inside walls of homes or buildings where there is moisture coming from pipes, drains, or leaks in roofs or windows.

The female red concrete mite will lay up to 100 eggs per day during her lifetime, which can last up to 80 days. The eggs hatch into immature nymphs within two days of being laid on moist concrete surfaces. The immature nymphs then go through five molts before they become adults and start laying their own eggs after 20-23 days in total.

So, are you dealing with red concrete bugs? Here are some common signs of these pests to watch out for.

Signs of a Red Concrete Bug Infestation

One of the most common signs of mites are the mites themselves.

Red concrete mites are quite small, often growing now larger than a pinhead in their adult stage, which can make them difficult to spot. These pests are sometimes bright red, orange, reddish-brown, or even burnt orange in color. As arachnids, they have eight legs and segmented body parts. They are also hairy, which can make them even more difficult to see.

Now that we know where red concrete mites come from and what they are attracted to, let’s talk about how to identify them.

1. Look for tiny red dots on your concrete surfaces

These tiny red dots are made by the shed skin of the red concrete mite’s exoskeleton as it matures within its egg sacs.

When these little critters hatch, they shed their skins several times until they grow into adults. It will take about two weeks for a young nymph to become an adult mite if conditions are favorable for their development (meaning temperature and humidity are ideal). If there is no moisture present or the temperature gets too cold, development may take longer than two weeks.

2. Look for oval-shaped red bugs

If you see small, oval-shaped red bugs, there’s a good chance that you have a concrete mite infestation. They are quick-moving pests and, upon closer inspection, may even resemble small, red spiders.

Other common signs of red concrete mites include:

• Red, oval shape eggs on the concrete or floor where you see the bugs crawling
• Droppings from the adult concrete mites
• Webs made by the nymphs (newly hatched young) and adults when they move around your property looking for food or water sources
• Mite dust produced when these pests shed their outer shell after molting (shedding) can be found in crevices or along sidewalks or driveways where they were present previously.

Best Practices For Getting Rid of Red Concrete Bugs

Vacuuming can be a quick way to get rid of living red concrete mites.

Red concrete bugs are annoying, but luckily they are not dangerous. If you do see red concrete bugs around your property, it’s best not to squish them. Their bright red color is quick to stain, and the stain can be difficult to remove from your patio furniture, driveway, or sidewalk.

Instead, use some of the below methods to capture visible red concrete bugs:

• Use a vacuum to suck up the bugs: This is the easiest way to get rid of red concrete bugs you can see. If you don’t have a vacuum, then simply sweep them into a pile and throw them away after securing them in a tightly sealed plastic bag.

• Wipe the bugs away with a wet cloth: Using this method will not only remove your unwanted pests but also wipe away any accidental red smears that may happen if you squish some of these bugs in the process. Remember, though – if you do use this method to get rid of red concrete bugs, be sure to dry the surface afterward as excess moisture could attract more red concrete mites all over again.

• Use a hose to spray the bugs away: This method can be effective, but it can also serve as a double-edged sword. Remember, excess moisture can lead to more red concrete mites, so only use this method if you have a secondary plan for removal to follow up with, like using an insecticide spray to keep them from returning.

How To Use the Right Products to Stop Red Concrete Bugs In Their Tracks!

Using the right products is the first step in getting rid of mites.

Your first step toward getting rid of concrete mites is to identify them and then remove any living mites you might see, as we discussed above. The next step is to acquire the right pest control products to kill any remaining red concrete bugs that are hiding out of sight.

There are many different types of products on the market that can help you with this task. Some people prefer to use chemical sprays, while others prefer non-toxic solutions such as Diatomaceous Earth or boric acid. Other people like trying their hand at home remedies.

We’ll discuss each of these options below so that you can make an informed choice about which product is right for your situation.

Chemical Insecticides:

Chemical insecticides and spray products are made with chemicals that kill pests by poisoning them using chemical ingredients and toxins. While these products do work, they can pose a risk to pets, people, and even the environment if not used properly. If you choose this type of product, be sure to follow all safety precautions and, of course, be sure to keep all pest control products out of reach of children and pets.

Non-Toxic Solutions:

There are several types of non-toxic solutions you can use when it comes to getting rid of red concrete bugs. Some examples include neem oil, borax, or Diatomaceous Earth.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a fine powder that’s made from fossilized algae. It works by cutting through the exoskeleton of insects and causing them to dehydrate and die as they can’t absorb water through their bodies once this exoskeleton is compromised.

If you are interested in using a product like Diatomaceous Earth or Neem oil to get rid of red concrete bugs, scroll down to our list of products for some brands we recommend.

Home Remedies:

If you are looking for other natural solutions to getting rid of red concrete mites, then you may want to consider using a home remedy such as baking soda or soap and water. Many people have had success with these methods, but it might take some time depending on how serious your infestation is and how quickly the red concrete mites are able to multiply in your area.

With that being said, home remedies can be effective because they can kill the red concrete mite quickly and effectively, especially if you already have the products on hand. However, if your infestation is severe or if there are other pests in your area (such as ants or other pests you are also hoping to manage) then using a home remedy may be best when utilized with other forms of pest control on our list below.

If you’re not sure which type of product or method would work best for you when it comes to getting rid of red concrete bugs, don’t worry. We have listed a combination of different products and methods we trust.

Harris Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer

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As we discussed above, Diatomaceous Earth, also known as DE, is an effective and safe solution for getting rid of red concrete bugs. This powdered solution is perfectly safe for people and pets and is most effective in killing hard-bodied insects like mites, roaches, ants, and spiders.

However, it is most effective when applied dry. If the product gets wet from rain or sprinklers, it should be replaced again quickly.

The easiest way to apply this powder is by using a hand duster or a hand sprayer to apply the powder directly onto the affected areas.

Ortho Insect & Mite Disease 4-in-1 Mite Killer

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Ortho Insect Mite & Disease is another product that can help you get rid of red concrete bugs on your property. This is an insecticide that can be used by itself or in conjunction with other treatments. It’s an easy solution for those who want to eliminate these pests from their home as well as other pests and mite species.

The active ingredient in this product is cyfluthrin, which is a pyrethroid insecticide. This chemical disrupts the nervous system of insects and kills them within hours of application. Because it is a contact killer, you must apply this product directly to the pests themselves in order for it to work best.

It’s important to follow all safety precautions when using Ortho Insect Mite & Disease, as it is a chemical insecticide. It’s also important not to use this product near food sources or food preparation areas, as well as on vegetable gardens or vegetation you might consume. Children and pets should also stay away from treated areas until at least 24 hours after the application has been completed.

Harris Neem Oil Concentrate

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One of the best and safest ways to get rid of red concrete bugs is by using a Neem Oil Concentrate. We like the above brand of Neem Oil by Harris, as this product has been designed specifically to deal with pests and works to kill them on contact. It also kills other pests such as ants, spiders, ticks, and fleas.

This product works by using neem oil that is extracted from the seeds and fruit of evergreen trees grown in India and Africa. The oil contains substances called azadirachtin which have natural insecticidal properties.

When using this product it’s important to note how severe your infestation is and where the majority of the red concrete bugs are located. Remember that if your infestation is quite severe, it will likely take several applications of the Neem Oil concrete in order to manage and kill all the pests.

Luckily, Harris Neem Oil Concentrate is a natural form of pest control that is perfectly safe to use around homes, children, pets, and gardens.

Wondercide EcoTreat Outdoor Pest Control

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Another natural form of pest control that works well to control red concrete bugs is Wondercide EcoTreat Outdoor Pest Control Spray. This spray is a safe and effective way to get rid of red concrete mites as well as a wide variety of other pests that may start “bugging” you this summer.

Wondercide uses all-natural ingredients like essential oils and plant-based pesticides that are safe for you, your pets, and the environment.

The above-listed product is made from peppermint oil, clove oil, and other natural oils. All these oils contain natural insecticidal properties that not only help to kill red concrete bugs on contact but also repel them in the future.

The oils also contain anti-fungal properties, which help keep mold and mildew from growing in areas where they might be a problem.

The active ingredients in Wondercide are terpenoids (specifically limonene), which are volatile organic compounds found in plants that give them their distinctive scents. When applied to plants or other materials, these terpenoids can act as insect repellants, insect killers, and fungicides.

We also like that these ingredients in Wondercide will not harm beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs.

Premo Guard Mite Killer Spray

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Premo Guard Mite Killer Spray forms a barrier that protects against mites and their eggs for up to 12 months. When applied correctly it remains on the surface where it can be washed off with water but does not penetrate into cracks or porous materials like concrete blocks or stucco. The liquid kills mites on contact, preventing them from reproducing out of control.

The active ingredient in Premo Guard Mite Killer Spray is Cedar Oil (Cedrus atlantica). Cedar oil has a long history of use as an insect repellent and pesticide. It has been used for centuries by Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for this purpose.

Cedar oil has also been used for thousands of years by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. In addition to its ability to repel insects such as mites, it also has antibacterial properties that make it effective against fungal growths such as mold on concrete surfaces such as patios or garage floors where mites may be present.

Premo Guard is a natural product. It is safe to use around people and pets, and the active ingredients are non-toxic essential oils.

Bonide Mite-X Insecticide

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Bonide Mite-X is another all-natural insecticide that helps to eliminate red concrete bugs. It’s made with bifenthrin and imidacloprid as active ingredients. Bifenthrin kills insects by disrupting their nervous system while imidacloprid acts as a neurotoxin that disrupts nerve impulses from reaching their target organ or tissue.

The combination of these two ingredients makes Bonide Mite-X an effective product for getting rid of red concrete bugs. Bonide Mite-X also contains piperonyl butoxide which is a synergist that helps improve efficiency by increasing the speed at which pesticides react with cells in insects’ bodies. So this product not only kills but also repels other insects such as spiders, ticks, fleas, and roaches from your home or garden area.

BioAdvanced Insecticide, Fungicide, And Miticide

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BioAdvanced 701290B Insecticide Fungicide Miticide 3-in-1 Insect, Disease & Mite Control is a concentrated spray containing the active ingredients Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (BTK) and Spinosad. This product can be used to kill and control red concrete bugs on lawns and gardens.

Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (BTK) is a naturally occurring bacterium that produces toxins that paralyze and kill certain insects when ingested. It works by inhibiting midgut function in susceptible insects such as caterpillars, leafhoppers, and fungus gnats. BTK does not affect humans or other mammals.

Spinosad is another naturally occurring bacterial toxin produced by Saccharopolyspora Spinosa (also known as Streptomyces spinosus). Spinosad works by attacking insect nervous systems causing paralysis and death within hours after ingestion or contact with the skin.

These ingredients work together to control insects, mites, and disease-causing fungi on plants. BioAdvanced Insecticide Fungicide kills adult insects as well as their eggs and larvae. This product is designed for use on ornamental plants only and should not be used on edible plants or around pets or humans.

How To Prevent Red Concrete Bugs

Prevention of red concrete mites means using a quality form of pest control you trust year-round.

There are several ways you can prevent red concrete bugs from appearing in the future. The first step is to clean up spills and other messes on your concrete immediately. If something spills, don’t let it sit for long before cleaning it up; this will prevent mold from growing on your concrete and attracting pests that could in turn attract red concrete bugs.

Another good way to prevent red concrete bug infestations is by keeping your concrete dry. These insects need moisture to thrive, so if you keep your foundation well-ventilated and dry, they won’t have much desire to live there.

You can also try using a dehumidifier if you live in an area that tends to be humid during certain parts of the year (particularly during summer). This will help keep moisture levels low enough that these pests aren’t able to survive or reproduce quickly enough before dying off themselves.

Below are a few products you might consider when looking to prevent red concrete bugs from coming back in the future.

Hydro Clay Pellets

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Hydrated clay beads are made from clay powder and water. They are used in hydroponic systems to improve drainage, provide nutrients and oxygen to the roots, and assist with pH balance. They can also be used as a pesticide against red concrete bugs.

Onetour Hydroclay Premium Hydroponics are hydrated clay beads and can deter red concrete bugs in hydroponics. The clay beads work by absorbing moisture from the air and releasing it into the soil, which prevents many insects from attacking plants or being attracted to moisture-rich areas.

Onetour Hydroclay Premium Hydroponics is made of 100% natural materials, so there is no risk of poisoning your plants or harming animals that may eat them. They also come at a very low price, making them an affordable option for any gardener who wants to protect their plants without having to spend too much money on pesticides or other chemicals.

Tekola Dehumidifier

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A Tekola Dehumidifier can help deter and prevent pests like red concrete bugs because it helps pull humidity from the air. This dehumidifier can be used in homes, basements, and other areas to prevent certain pests

This dehumidifier has a built-in humidistat that will monitor the humidity level in your area and adjust accordingly.

The Tekola Dehumidifier comes with three different nozzles for use in different situations. The “standard” nozzle provides a circular area of coverage that can range from 5 to 8 feet depending on your environment and the humidity level in your grow room.

The “medium” nozzle provides a circular area of coverage that can range from 10 to 12 feet depending on your environment and the humidity level in your grow room. The “large” nozzle provides a circular area of coverage that can range from 15 to 18 feet depending on your environment and the humidity level in your grow room.

How To Use Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Red Concrete Bugs

Home remedies like vinegar solutions or baking soda can help control red concrete bugs.

While there are plenty of products you can purchase to use for getting rid of red concrete bugs, there are also some methods you can use at home.

In fact, many ingredients you may already have in your kitchen pantry, medicine cabinet, or laundry room may do the trick just as efficiently when it comes to getting rid of these annoying pests.

So what are some of these home remedies? Take a look below!

1. Tea Tree Oil Spray

Tea tree oil is a natural insect repellent that is safe for humans and animals. The smell of tea tree oil is strong, so it’s best used sparingly on plants. Mix 1 part tea tree oil with 10 parts water in a spray bottle, then spray on problem areas such as your garden or lawn or along your sidewalks or driveway. You can also mix the tea tree oil into a homemade insecticide spray using a base of water, vinegar, or soap.

2. Soap And Water Spray

Soap and water is another simple solution that works well against red concrete bugs. This mixture will dehydrate the bug’s exoskeleton, causing it to die from dehydration after a few days. Create a solution of one part dish soap per gallon of water in a spray bottle, then apply liberally over affected areas as needed until you see fewer bugs present on your concrete surface.

3. Vinegar And Water Spray

Vinegar is an affordable and effective home remedy you can use for killing red concrete mites. Mix one part vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle and apply liberally over affected surfaces until all visible bugs have been killed off.

4. Salt Solution

Salt has long been used as an effective method of killing pests, and this makes it a useful tool to have on hand when dealing with red concrete bugs. Mix one part salt with two parts water in a spray bottle, then apply liberally over affected surfaces until all visible bugs have been killed off.

5. Borax Solution

Borax is a natural mineral that can be found in many household cleaning supplies, and it is also an effective home remedy for killing red concrete bugs. Mix one part borax powder with two parts water until you have created a thick paste. Apply it generously over the affected surfaces until you stop seeing red concrete bugs appear.

6. Baking Soda

You can use baking soda and water to kill red concrete bugs. Mix equal parts baking soda and hot water together into a paste. Apply this paste to areas where you see red concrete bugs and leave it on for at least 24 hours. When you come back, scrub off the dead insects with an old toothbrush or similar tool.

7. Peppermint Oil Solution

A combination of peppermint oil and water can be used as an all-natural way to kill the pests that are congregating on your concrete surfaces. The best way to do this is by mixing one part peppermint oil with one part water, then adding one drop of soap to the mixture. Apply liberally over affected areas and allow it to dry before applying it again. Once finished, you can simply wipe the solution away with a cloth or sponge.

Getting Rid Of Red Concrete Bugs For Good – Our Final Thoughts

Though many people are deterred by these pests, remember that they are not harmful to people or pets.

Getting rid of red concrete bugs can seem tricky, but when you understand these pests and what they are attracted to, it is possible.

Remember, red concrete mites are small creatures with a reddish or orange color. They live under concrete slabs, sidewalks, and driveways, where they feed on other mites, insects, or pollen.

There are many different ways to get rid of red concrete bugs from around your home, as we mentioned above. Of course, if you find you still cannot get rid of red concrete bugs, it may be best to hire a professional pest control company to remove them safely and permanently from your property.

A professional pest control company will spray insecticides onto your property that can target and kill these pests. They may then be able to help you determine the best form of pest control to help keep these pests from returning next season.

We hope that this article has been helpful in increasing your awareness of red concrete mites. Whether you are an avid gardener, homeowner, or business owner, it is a good idea to keep an eye out for these tiny red bugs.

Thanks for reading!