Termites are small, brownish-black, hard-bodied insects that are related to ants. They are about one-quarter of an inch long and have a wingspan of about half an inch. There are more than 2,000 species of termites, but the most common are the dry wood termites. Dry wood termites are found in all parts of the United States. They live in warm, dry climates and can survive in temperatures up to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
Termites are attracted to moisture and will feed on any type of wood, including lumber, paper, and cardboard. They can cause significant damage to homes and other structures. Termites are very good at hiding, so it can be difficult to tell if you have a termite problem.
If you suspect that you have termites, it is important to call pest control termites professionals to assess the situation. Exterminators will be able to determine whether you have termites, and will also be able to recommend a course of action.
There are several signs that you may be dealing with termites:
Termite Wings
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One of the most obvious signs is the presence of winged termites. These termites are reproductive termites and they swarm in order to start new colonies. Winged termites are often seen emerging from the soil or from cracks and crevices in the building. Conversely, if you’re seeing piles of wings near your home, there’s a good chance you have a termite infestation. Termites shed their wings as they grow new ones, so piles of wings near your home are a good indication of an infestation.
Mud Tubes
If you’re seeing tiny mud tubes on the outside of your home, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a termite problem. Termites are notoriously hard to detect and can cause serious damage to your home if left untreated, so it’s important to be able to identify them as early as possible.
Wood Damage
Termites eat the wood from the inside out and so the damage is not always visible from the outside. However, if you notice that the wood seems to be softening or that there are areas that are bubbling or peeling, then you may have a termite infestation.
Termite Droppings
Another sign of a termite problem is the presence of termite droppings. Termites eat wood and as they digest it, they produce a droppings that looks like pellets of wood. If you see these droppings near the foundation of your home or along the base of walls, it is likely that you have a termite infestation.
Termite Spottings
The most undeniable sign of a termite infestation is the presence of termites themselves. Termites are small, pale insects that look similar to ants. They are often found in large numbers near the source of the infestation.
Treating a Termite Infestation
There are a few different methods that pest control professionals use to treat termites. The most common is called a liquid termiticide. This is a chemical that is injected into the ground around the home, and it kills the termites that come into contact with it. Another common treatment is a termite bait. This is a piece of wood that is treated with a chemical, and the termites eat it and die.
Preventing Termites
There are also a few different methods of preventing termites from invading your home. The most common is to install a termite barrier around the home. This is a chemical that is injected into the ground and it prevents the termites from entering the home. You can also install a termite shield around the foundation of your home. This is a metal shield that prevents the termites from entering the home.
If you suspect that you have a termite infestation already, it’s important to call a professional immediately. Termites can be difficult to get rid of, and trying to treat them yourself could end up making the problem worse.
