The Hunt for Termites
As we head toward spring and the warmer weather, it is time to take a quick look at termites and how you can hunt them down in your home. Many homeowners don't think too much about these hidden pests that seem to be, out of sight, out of mind. We are here to warn you that even though you may not see termites, you should at least keep an eye out for any signs that may indicate that you have an issue. Termite problems could impact the structural integrity of your home, or, at the very least, cause damage to the wooden parts of your home. Let's take a closer look at how you can be on the hunt for termites in your home. Termites cause billions of dollars in damage each year in the U.S.. Mostly, they feed on wood, the kind that can be found in the woods surrounding your home, the firestack, or even the wooden foundation of your home. They can also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. The most dangerous thing about these pests is that they often go unseen. They do most of their work inside wood or in mud tubes connecting their colonies. As a homeowner, you should be alert for some of the following signs. Early detection could help lessen the damage and allow an extermination company to begin treatment early.
- Spring is typically when large numbers of winged termites, known as "swarmers," emerge inside homes. This dispersal is due to the warmer temperatures and the instinct to start a new colony.
- Winged termites are attracted to light, so you may see wings near windows or doors.
- In order to travel in darkened shelter, termites construct mud tubes. You may see earthen mud tubes extending over foundation walls, supports, and floor joists.
- Damaged wood may be one more sign you have an infestation. Using a screwdriver or pole, bang on wooden structures in your home. Hollowed or damaged wood can tell you that termites may have been present.
- Termite droppings or frass may be visible as termites eat the wood and have droppings emerge from the main areas of excavation.
If you have any of these signs of termite infestation, call Pest-End Exterminators now at 1-800-287-4321, 603-382-9644, or 978-794-4321.
