How To Prevent A Termite Infestation

No one likes to see an infestation of household pests in their home. Cockroaches, spiders, ants and many other bugs are dreaded and unwanted pests. But nothing affects a homeowner like knowing there is a presence of termites in the house. Roaches are gross and spiders are frightening but neither one causes any significant damage. However, termites are a different story and are one of the scariest insects in existence relevant to the structure of your home.

Termites cause billions of dollars worth of damage every year and can go undetected for years before the damage is discovered. Their ability to hide for long periods of time is one of the most dangerous things about termites. One termite colony can have hundreds of thousands of termites and still go unnoticed for long periods of time. The termite hides behind walls, under floor covering, behind insulation and other obstructions doing their damage from the inside out.

With the termite’s ability to hide so effectively, termite inspection is a must for establishing termite control. One of the most obvious signs of termite infestation is the sudden appearance of flying termites, often called swarmers. These swarmers are most active in the springtime. The presence of these swarmers is a pretty sure guarantee that there is a colony close by.

Mud tubes or tunnels on a foundation often identify the presence of subterranean termites. These mud tubes are found on foundations and provides access to a wooden structure. Other signs of termites in the home may include termite droppings and a buildup of soil at the bottom of a set of stairs or along the bottom of a wall.

Most termites need three things to survive; soil, water and wood. With that in mind, the following tips will help with Maryland termite control. Begin with a thorough termite inspection. Look for any water leaks in your home and repair as needed. Remember, water is one requirement for termites to survive.

Remove any piles of brush from around your home. These are great sources of food and water that attracts termites. Be sure to shape your lawn to eliminate any standing water from close to your house.

Remove any unused lumber, dead trees and old stumps from your property. Any wood directly on the ground is a magnet to termites. Use treated lumber when building decks, porches or any portion of your home that has direct contact with the ground.

Seal any points of entry and doing so will prevent easy access for termites to enter through cracks or holes. Most important, get your home professionally inspected for termite damage or the presence of termites. This inspection should also include termite identification for proper treatment and control. In the event of a presence of termites, remember that the DIY techniques are not effective. American Pest understands the dangers of termites and provides services designed to eliminate termites permanently as well as continuous monitoring for new termite activity.