Determining If You Need Termite Control

by Nate on June 18, 2011

Determining If You Need Termite Control

Many homeowners don’t realize that their home is infested with the termites, commonly known as ‘silent destroyers’, before it’s too late. The majority of people confess to not knowing what the signs of termite damage are or what a termite even looks like! Take the time to learn more about these pests and their destructive behavior so you know when professional termite control is necessary and prevent costly damage from incurring.

 

Know Your Termite

The first step to determining if you need termite control involves identifying the bugs in your home. If you see what appears to be swarming ants, you likely have termites. In New England, termite control professionals encounter subterranean termites most often. These termites tend to swarm, or fly in groups, and look similar to flying ants when they do so. To determine whether you actually have termites or whether they are just flying ants, look at their wings. Termites and flying ants both have two sets of wings. However, one set on a flying ant is larger than the other. The wings of a termite are exactly the same size.

 

It will also be helpful to note the body structure of the pest. Termites do not have body segments, and are generally one quarter inch wide and one sixteenths inch long. Be aware of where you live and the types of bugs in your surroundings, and understand what your climate is so that you can determine whether you’ve encountered a termite or a less harmful insect.

 

Look for Swarming

During the spring, especially after it rains, subterranean termites begin swarming. This is one of the most easily visible indications that your home could be infested with termites. You will want to immediately seek professional termite control if you recognize swarming on your property.

 

Beware of Mud Tubes

The subterranean termites love to create shelters, often referred to as “mud tubes”. These tubes are built from the soil, attach to the building foundation and then extend to the home’s woodwork. You can search the outside the house for these tubes, which are normally the diameter of a pencil. Before contacting termite control services, you can attempt to break the tube and check back later to see if it’s been rebuilt. This will determine if the tube is active.

 

Which Areas of Your Home are Most Vulnerable

Termites are always in search of food and moisture in order to sustain their colony. You should look in those areas of your home that tend to be damp and contain wood, which is the chief food source for these insects. This could be your basement, a stacked woodpile by your house, or some other space that has similar conditions. They may also seek out wood via other avenues such as cracks in your foundation, entry doors or other areas of access. Look for signs of hollowed wood or dirt in the wood to determine if termites have been there. If you’re unsure but suspect a possible infestation, call a local termite control company for a professional opinion. Many even offer free inspections.

 

It’s important to be proactive when determining if you need termite control. If you suspect any termite activity it is best to immediately call a professional for an inspection and a quote. It’s not worth waiting or attempting to exterminate all of the insects on your own. You risk not killing them all or waiting until it’s too late, and costs may become too high or damage is irreparable.

About Modern Pest

Modern Pest Services is a family-owned and operated pest management company serving commercial and residential clients throughout New England since 1945. Modern employs integrated pest management (IPM) practices to provide fast and effective pest control solutions. Visit http://www.modernpest.com/


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