Termites are a major pest. In the United States alone, these wood-munching bugs cause more than $5 billion dollars each year in property damage. That is a lot of wood being consumed!
The damage from termites is like a slow burn… they spend time wreaking havoc that is often completely unnoticed. Once the termite damage is visible, it may have been going on for months or even years and can be far more problematic than one could imagine. Structural damage can be done to floors, studs, joists, roof supports, posts – all the ‘strength’ of a structure is vulnerable. It all looks great, and then, BAM! Thousands of dollars in repairs.
There are more than 40 different termite species in the US and they all ‘swarm’ at various times of the year to infiltrate new locations. Once a colony becomes mature, new queens are created that want their own location. As a queen leaves a nest in search of a new structural victim, a number of termites will follow her in what is known as ‘swarming’. It can truly be thousands of termites at a time! If you see a swarm of termites inside your home (gag!) or anywhere around the outside of your home, it is likely you already have some damage and you need to get on it as soon as possible!
Some other signs to look for are bubbling paint as the damage is underneath. Also, wood that sounds hollow when tapped or wood that splinters easily with a spongy feel to it – that is a sure sign of the damage below the surface. Drywood termites leave tell-tale piles of what looks like sawdust outside of wood they are devouring. During a swarm, the termites will grow temporary wings that are then discarded so a lot of wings not attached to a bug are a huge clue. Additional signs are sagging flooring, stuck windows and doors, loosening tiles or suddenly creaking floorboards.
It is wise to intentionally perform a property inspection at least once a year to look for signs mentioned above. Early detection and treatment are paramount to preventing catastrophic damage.
If you have any of these signs of a termite infestation during your inspection, you want to face it immediately. Pest Control Professionals are most likely to use harsh, chemical pesticides – which is not necessary. There are natural alternatives that can control the issue – and even prevent the presence of these wood-eaters to begin with.
Utilizing all natural pest control options, it is simple to pre-treat properties so that termites know they are not welcome. If they are already there, these same products can control existing termites and the eggs of future generations.
No reason to be ‘pestered’ by termites when you know how to prevent and treat for them.