What to know about Termites
By: Amanda S
Did you know that your home could be eaten out from under you? It is TRUE! Let me explain. Termites are insects that eat wood. This means that your home could be dinner for entire colonies of termites, and you may not even notice it happening. This article will introduce you to termites and how you can stay protected!
Termites may be small, but when they show up, they pack a BIG punch! Termites can affect the health of your home or property by compromising its structural integrity. Both slab and crawl/basement foundations are vulnerable to termite damage. The smallest crack in your slab foundation means a wide-open door to termites! Ever see a crack in a driveway, well that’s what your home slab looks like under your homes floor.
This is costly to repair and is not covered by your homeowner’s insurance! Termites are known as “Silent Destroyers” because they can live, eat, work, and play almost unnoticed.
Have no fear! This article will share some things to look for that could indicate that termites are present or scoping the place out for future expansion and best practices to keep your family safer!
Termites use mud tubes to travel from the colony to your home. You may even notice flying swarms coming from small openings. Mud tubes keep the termites protected during their travels and usually take them from their home base to their food sources. When it is time for the colony to expand, swarms of termites leave the home base and travel to find new, damp, woody homes to build new colonies.
If you suspect that you may have an issue with termites, it is best to reach out to a Termite Specialist. Companies that are licensed to handle termite issues have experienced and certified technicians that can provide expert recommendations in prevention and treatment of termite troubles.
One type of treatment are bait stations that offer a food source that prevents the termites from molting and growing. They need to do this to survive! Another type of treatment is a liquid treatment in which a liquid barrier is injected into the ground surrounding the home deterring the termites. While both treatments are effective, your termite specialist will be able to recommend the best treatment plan and action for your home.
Bust-A-Bug uses pet-friendly and family-friendly products that are effective in the treatment of termites. If you or a loved one has concerns about termites, call us today to get a quote! Our Certified and Experienced Technicians will treat your home just like theirs and we offer convenient and affordable options for all households.
Sources
“Termites: How to Identify and Control Them.” EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, https://www.epa.gov/safepestcontrol/termites-how-identify-and-control-them.
“Termites: Facts, Photos, & Extermination.” PestWorld.org Your Partner in Pest Prevention, https://www.pestworld.org/pest-guide/termites/.
Huber, Jeanne. “How to Detect and Deter Termites.” This Old House, This Old House, 8 Apr. 2004, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/pest-control/21014998/how-to-detect-and-deter-termites.
“Termite.” Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/termite/353849#:~:text=Termites%20are%20insects%20that%20eat,nests%20in%20wood%20or%20underground.
