Termites are a common global problem. In America alone, over 600,000 homes encounter termite infestations every year. These, in total, cost an average of five billion dollars termite treatment, a whopping sum for such little vermin.
The tiny insects wreck your home or commercial property by feeding on its framework. Though small in size, a termite colony can cause massive damage if left unchecked. Termites typically eat your structure’s dry wood, but it’s not their only diet. The pests also target wallpapers, plants, vegetables, clothes, papers, and boxes. Swarms gather in dark and humid settings, making them hard to find until it’s too late.
Read on to learn about how to detect an infestation early and what to do for termite treatment. Know what you’re facing to protect your property and save some money in damage repairs.
Signs of a Termite Invasion
Being extra observant will lead you right to your property’s vermin infestation. Here are telltale signs that you have termites hiding in your walls, floors, and ceilings.
Tiny Holes on Wood
As said above, termites consume wood more than any compound. If you check around your house, you might see “tunnels” in your beams, frames, and walls. These are the size of a hole made by a standard needle and grouped close to each other. The clusters dig deep into any surface, making the structure hollow and weaker.
Mud Tubes
Worker termites rely on mud tubes to travel from food sources to their nests. You can typically see these brown pencil-sized tunnels along your building’s surfaces. These termite subways consist of soil, wood, and subterranean particles. Seeing mud tubes is always a clear indicator that a colony shelter is nearby.
Sounds from Your Walls
When you’re scouting for mites, try listening to your walls. If you ever hear low clicking sounds, these might be soldier termites warning their brood. Staying true to their name, these soldiers are always on their guard. Whenever they sense danger, they bang their heads to alarm worker termites. This action sends out vibrations, which are the clicking sounds you hear from your wall.
Discarded Wings or Termite Droppings
Flying swarmers are termites that leave their colony to create a new nest. These types hunt for a mate and lose their wings after finding one. If you see discarded termite wings somewhere on your property, a colony is a close distance away. Another key sign is the sight of frass or termite droppings. These are fecal matter left by dry wood termites that shove their waste out of holes close to their nests. Frass typically looks like a clump of small black and brown pellets, so be on the lookout.
Treat Your Termite Problem
Getting rid of an infestation depends on the severity of your case. Read on to learn how to deal with your wood-munching visitors.
Pick Your Poison
If you prefer being hands-on, go to your local hardware store and buy a termiticide. Research online or ask around to find which type suits your termite situation. When you finally have a product, apply it to the affected areas by pouring or spraying. Professional-grade brands can typically wipe out a whole colony and its neighboring nests. Make sure to check reviews first to see which one works best.
Direct Chemical Treatment
Another do-it-yourself termite treatment is to use direct chemicals. This method is safer to use than termiticides, yet it is effective. One popular brand is the fast-acting and odorless Termidor® HP II System. You can apply the foam in areas that house termite nests and where it leaves a residue that’s toxic to termites. The product lasts over a month, giving you ample time to solve your termite problems.
Beneficial Nematodes
Give termites a taste of their own medicine and send a hungry parasite after them. Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that are used to fight garden pests. Once released, these small species look for hosts, like termites, and burrow into them. This action leads to the termite’s death within two days, so you can get rid of the winged vermin fast. To find beneficial nematodes, contact any garden supply store or look for them online.
Call an Expert
If the damage is too severe, contact a professional to do the job. Before making a call, though, be sure to do your research. Go online and find the companies close to your area. Read reviews, find one with a positive record, and, when you’ve made up your mind, reach out to them. You get the service you need, some free check-ups, and even follow-up treatments.
Get Rid of Termites Today!
If you need help with termite treatment, reach out to a certified expert for full pest control service. Professionals will help protect your property and prevent more damage from termite infestations.
