Wasps may play a role in the ecosystem, but when they start building nests on your property, they quickly become a threat to your family, pets, and peace of mind. In Middle Tennessee, homeowners frequently encounter aggressive stinging insects like paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets, particularly in late summer and early fall.
At Armor Termite and Pest Control, we’re experts in identifying wasp species, removing active nests, and providing long-term protection plans tailored to your home. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to identify wasps, understand their behavior, prevent future infestations, and know when it’s time to call in the pros.
What Are Wasps, and Why Are They a Problem?
Wasps are flying insects with narrow waists, smooth bodies, and a painful sting. They’re more aggressive than bees and are capable of stinging multiple times, especially when they feel threatened or when their nest is disturbed.
While some wasps provide natural pest control by feeding on insects and arthropods, others — particularly yellow jackets and hornets — become dangerous when they build nests near high-traffic areas like decks, porches, or playgrounds.
Meet the Most Common Wasps in Tennessee
| Species | Appearance | Nest Type | Where They Nest |
| European Paper Wasp | Black and yellow, long hind legs, slender body | Open paper comb, no envelope | Eaves, deck overhangs, inside vents |
| Yellow Jacket | Compact, bright yellow and black, smooth body | Papery enclosed comb | Underground, wall voids, playground equipment |
| Baldfaced Hornet | Black with white facial markings, thick body | Large enclosed football-shaped nest | Trees, shrubs, upper building corners |
Key Differences
- Paper wasps are less aggressive but can sting if provoked.
- Yellow jackets are highly aggressive scavengers, often found near trash cans and picnic areas.
- Hornets are protective of their large aerial nests and will defend them fiercely.
How to Spot a Wasp Infestation
Top 6 Signs You May Have a Wasp Problem:
- Increased wasp activity in one area (roofline, shed, porch)
- Visible nest — grayish, papery, sometimes hidden in hollow areas
- Buzzing sounds in walls, attics, or ceiling corners
- Wasps hovering around food, drinks, or garbage cans
- Aggressive behavior when you’re near certain outdoor spots
- Multiple wasps entering/exiting the same hole or crevice
How to Get Rid of Wasps (Safely and Effectively)
DIY Wasp Removal Steps (Caution: Use Only for Small Nests)
- Confirm the species and location of the nest
- Wait until evening or early morning when wasps are sluggish
- Wear protective clothing — long sleeves, gloves, face covering
- Use a pressurized wasp spray from a safe distance
- Repeat treatment if activity continues after 48 hours
- Remove the nest only once it’s inactive
Why Professional Wasp Removal is Safer
Wasp colonies can number in the hundreds or thousands. A disturbed nest can lead to multiple painful stings in seconds. Our trained technicians use EPA-approved products, specialized equipment, and proven techniques to treat and remove nests with zero risk to your family or pets.
Wasp Prevention Tips: How to Keep Wasps from Nesting
Prevention is your best line of defense. Follow this homeowner checklist to reduce the risk of wasp infestations:
Top 10 Wasp Prevention Tips:
- Keep outdoor trash cans sealed and cleaned regularly
- Rinse soda cans and juice bottles before recycling
- Seal gaps and cracks in soffits, siding, and fascia
- Install mesh screens on attic and gable vents
- Avoid leaving pet food or meat scraps outside
- Clean grill areas after use
- Trim overgrown shrubs and low tree branches
- Repair damaged window screens
- Use natural repellents like clove, mint, citronella, or eucalyptus
- Schedule seasonal inspections with Armor Termite
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Wasps
At Armor Termite, we use a science-based approach called Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to reduce wasp activity using minimal chemicals and maximum strategy.
Our Wasp IPM Strategy Includes:
- Spring inspections to locate early-stage nests
- Trapping systems for yellow jackets using heptyl butyrate-based lures
- Elimination of attractants like open food, compost, and standing water
- Exclusion sealing of entry points in playground equipment and walls
- Safe nest destruction in accordance with label and safety laws
- Post-treatment cleanup and education to reduce re-infestation
Service Comparison: Why Armor Termite Is the Smarter Choice
| Feature | DIY Spray | Store-Bought Traps | Armor Termite Service |
| Guaranteed Results | No | No | Yes |
| Family/Pet Safe | Risky | Moderate | Yes |
| Nest Identification | Often inaccurate | No | Accurate |
| Treatment of All Nest Types | No | Limited | Comprehensive |
| Same-Day Emergency Option | No | No | Available |
| Expert Follow-Up | No | No | Yes |
Customer FAQs: Wasp Control in Tennessee
Late summer and early fall, especially when food is scarce and colonies are fully developed.
No — wasp nests are not reused, but the location may be reused if left untreated.
Only once you are sure it’s inactive — ideally in late fall or winter.
No — which is why nighttime or early morning is safest for treatment.
Serving Mt. Juliet, Hermitage, Lebanon, and Surrounding Areas
Armor Termite and Pest Control is proud to be Middle Tennessee’s trusted source for fast, safe, and guaranteed wasp removal services. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners and business owners eliminate wasp threats with care and precision.