Having a termite infestation can be a nightmare for any homeowner. Not only do these pests continuously damage the structure of houses, but they are incredibly difficult to get rid of. That is why it is so important to have a reliable termite control system in place. In this article, we will discuss the importance of professional termite control and how to tell if your home needs professional help.
What is Termites?
Termites are small insects that feed on wood products and can cause extensive damage to homes, buildings, and other wooden structures. In the United States, there are three major species of termites: subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. Subterranean termites live in underground colonies where they feed on cellulose material found in wood products. Drywood termites typically nest above ground in hollowed-out pieces of wood such as beams or stumps; they also infest furniture and decorative items made from wood. Dampwood termites prefer moist environments such as rainforests or areas with high moisture content. They tend to attack any exposed wooden structure or material by creating tunnels through the surface layers of the wood product.
Signs of Infestation
One of the most common signs of an infestation is noticing damage done to wooden areas in your home. This may include small holes, tunnels, or tracks that have been chewed into beams, walls and other wood structures. If you notice any irregular marks on wooden surfaces in your home it’s important to contact a professional right away as this could be a sign of an active termite infestation.
Another common sign is seeing swarmers or discarded wings around window sills and baseboards. Reproductive termites will fly out of their nest and discard their wings when they find a mate, so these can be indicative that there is an active colony nearby. Finally, droppings are another sign of infestations which appear as black specks near the nests or pathways created by the insects. This is caused by them eating away at the wood cellulose which creates sawdust-like particles that can be seen around the nest area.
Professional Treatment Options
Professional termite control companies offer a variety of treatment options to get rid of existing termites and prevent future infestations. There are both chemical and non-chemical methods available, depending on the severity and type of infestation in your home.
Chemical treatments involve injecting an insecticide into the soil around your home’s foundation to target any remaining colonies. This method is effective but can take several applications over a period of months to fully eradicate the infestation. Other chemical treatments include baiting systems, which use small ‘bait stations’ placed around your home that contain termite-killing bait. The bait is consumed by the colony and destroys them from within.
Non-chemical methods include physical barriers such as metal screens or gravel barriers which are installed around your home’s foundation to prevent termites from entering in their search for food sources. In addition, proper ventilation also helps keep moisture levels low, making it difficult for termites to survive in your environment. Professional pest control companies can also provide heat treatments which involve raising the temperature inside affected areas so high that any existing colonies will be eliminated without leaving behind harmful chemicals or residue in your home.
DIY Solutions
DIY solutions to termite control can be an effective and inexpensive way to deal with the pests. One of the most popular DIY methods is baiting, which involves putting out bait stations that are designed to attract and kill worker termites. These bait stations should be placed around the perimeter of your home, as well as in any areas where you suspect termite activity. Once the worker termites feed on the bait, they will take it back to their colony and share it with other members, eventually eliminating the entire colony. Another DIY solution is spraying insecticides on infested wood or soil. This method is best used when you have already identified a small area where termites are located, since spraying insecticides in larger areas can have adverse effects on your health and environment. Finally, removing woodpiles and other sources of food from your property is a good way to reduce potential food sources for colonies of termites near your home.
Benefits of Professional Control
Professional termite control has numerous benefits. First, a professional exterminator can quickly and accurately identify the type of infestation and its severity. This helps them tailor a solution that is most effective in eliminating the problem. Additionally, they have access to products and chemicals that are not available to the general public. These specialized substances not only ensure that the termites are completely destroyed but also allow for minimal disruption to your property or structure. Professional control also includes preventative measures such as sealing off potential entry points and applying insecticides around the perimeter of your home to deter further infestations from occurring in the future. Finally, professional termite control companies usually offer warranties which guarantee their services for an extended period of time so you can rest assured knowing that your home is protected from these pests in case of future invasions.
Considerations for Hiring a Professional
When it comes to termite control, hiring a professional is highly recommended. Professional services will be able to identify the extent of the infestation and develop an effective course of action. Additionally, they can spot potential problems before they become more serious and offer preventative measures for the future.
Before hiring a professional, it is important to investigate their qualifications and experience in pest control. The company should have certification from state or national organizations that specialize in this field. They should also provide references from satisfied customers who have used their services in the past. In addition, inquire about warranties offered on their treatments, as well as any additional services such as repairs or follow up visits.
When deciding which company to hire for termite control, compare different bids and look into customer reviews online. Be sure to ask questions if something is not clear or if you want additional information before making your final decision. Once you are confident you have selected the best service provider for your needs, make sure all terms are agreed upon and contact information is exchanged before signing a contract with them
