Buildings can sustain major damage from termite infestations to the point of collapse. Although an infestation is usually established before you see any signs of it, knowing what to look for can help you catch the problem before the resulting damage becomes irreparable. There are also steps that you can take to prevent an infestation. With these facts and tips from Abarb Pest Services, you can keep your property termite free.
Signs of an Infestation
If you have a termite infestation, look for brown, pencil-wide mud-foraging tubes on the foundation, window sills, and floor, ceiling and wall joists. These tubes are how the termites travel from underground and into your home. Cut open the tubes to look for worker termites, which are whitish and translucent. Even if you don’t find any in the tube, an infestation could still be present.
Also, look for winged termites or shed wings along the edges of floors and on window sills. If you see winged insects that you suspect are termites, capture one. When you show us, we will be able to confirm quickly whether or not it’s a termite.
Identifying Termite Damage
Termite damage can sometimes look like water damage. Swollen ceilings and floors, visible mazes in walls and buckling wood are all indications. The smell of mold or mildew in areas that appear water damaged and wood that is hollowed out along the grain and lined with dried soil or mud are also signs. Rippled or sunken wall coverings as well as small holes in plaster walls or drywall indicate damage from an infestation as well.
Protecting Your Home
You can take measures to prevent termites from infesting your home. Termites are attracted to wet, humid environments, so avoid moisture accumulation near the foundation, and decrease humidity in crawl spaces. Cardboard boxes, newspaper, lumber and firewood are sources of termite food, so don’t store any of these materials in crawl spaces or near the foundation. Landscape mulch holds moisture and is a source of food for termites, so use it sparingly. Prevent structural wood from being in contact with the ground because it gives termites direct access to your home from their underground tunnels. Professional termite treatment is another measure that you can take to prevent an infestation.
When a termite infestation occurs despite your best efforts to prevent it, call Abarb Pest Services for an inspection. We have the experience and training to handle all of your termite control needs.
