Did you know that at least 60% of US households use pest control services?
The number of these companies rises every year, and each one of them wants to be the one you call when you have an infestation problem.
But how do you pick the right pest control company to remove termites from your house? And how can you tell if the company will do a good job or will end up spreading the infestation to other areas of your home?
In this article, we will go over some of the signs of termites and explain what pest control professionals look for when inspecting a home for termites.
Stuck Windows or Doors
In some cases, homeowners may not be able to open their windows or doors due to the severe damage caused by termites. This is because termites feed on wood and will consume the door’s structure or window, weakening it to the point where it is difficult to open and close.
Get periodic pest control services to detect termites early and protect your home.
Termite Swarmers & Discarded Wings
Termites are small but mighty insects, as they can cause a lot of damage to your house and belonging if left unchecked. Knowing the signs of termites in your house is the key to keeping them away. One of the most common signs of a termite infestation is the presence of termite swarmers.
These are the flying termites that leave their colonies in search of new nesting sites. The discarded wings are another telltale sign of a termite infestation. Other signs to look out for include hollow-sounding wood and loss of structural support in your walls or ceilings.
Mud Tubes
Seeing mud tubes in your house can be one of the many signs of a termite problem. Mud tubes are tunnels that termites build to travel back and forth between their nest and food source, usually wood or other cellulose material. They are made of dirt and saliva and look very similar in size and shape to small earthworm tunnels.
They are usually visible around the foundation of buildings, next to the interior walls, or underneath doors and windowsills. You might also see them along pipes, cables, or other metal objects.
Termite Droppings
A termite problem usually feeds on wood, paper, insulation, and drywall, not other organic materials. As a result, their droppings are a major sign of their presence. These excretions look like fallen sawdust or little wood pellets. Termite droppings or frass can also be found in air vents and piles around windowsills or doorframes.
When droppings are accompanied by damaged wood or mud tubes, it’s even more of an indication that termites are living in the house. Additionally, termites may leave tiny holes in walls with rough edges, or they may create even larger holes in their tunnels to gain access to food.
Recognizing the Signs of Termites in Your Home
Termites are destructive pests that can wreak havoc in your home. Pay attention to the signs of termites, such as dead termites, visible mud tubes, and damaged wood.
If you suspect that you have a termite problem, call a pest management specialist immediately. They can quickly and effectively eliminate any termite issue, preserving your healthy and safe home.
