Termites 101: Things You Need to Know About Them

One of our most valuable investment is our home, and we should do everything to protect it. They may be damaged throughout the seasons, from natural disasters, unexpected fire, or slowly destroyed by pests without us knowing immediately. Did you know that termites are considered to be the top threat to wood-based structures? Learn more about these destructive and troublesome pests so you may know how to deal with them:

These sneaky pests can invade your homes without you knowing immediately. They can go through their daily cycle without any noise and signs, unless you really look.

Where do Termites Usually Hide?

• Living Room - this is considered a gold mine for termites. They can live on the wooden floors to the furnitures and baseboard.
  
• Kitchen - Termites can get through open windows or the leaky pipes.
  
• Garage - this will depend on the items you store in your garage. Its is better to use metal storage and to keep them away from the walls.
  
• Cardboard Storage - we tend to use cardboard as storage boxes. And this item is seen as a buffet for termites.

Signs of Termite Infestation:

• Mud tubes are the most obvious signs for termites. These acts as a tunnel for them to go through back and forth to their food source and nests, and also for them to avoid sunlight.
• Tapping on wood can help you determine if there are termites infesting it. If it sound hollow when tapped, then it is definitely infested.
• See insect wings around your home? They might be from termite swarmers. Call a Professional Exterminator to determine if they are from termites or just ant swarmers.
• There are bubbling areas on the paint of wood surfaces.

Preventive Tips for Termites:

• Termites can fit in through gaps and cracks. Make sure to seal all crevices, cracks,and gaps where termites can possibly get into your home. Check out your window joints, eaves, and attic vents.
• Termites are attracted to moisture. Fix any water leaks and keep your gutters and downspouts clean.
• Termites usually come from underground and may crawl from there into your home. Keep cardboard, storage, wood, or foam insulation at least 8” above the ground so it may not act as a highway for termites.

If you see any of the above signs mentioned, immediately call a Professional Termite Exterminator, who can easily determine where they are located and exterminate them. Leaving them infesting your home for a longer period can drastically increase your cost for their damages.