Few pests are quite as destructive as the dreaded termite. While rodents, ants or spiders make their presence known through easily identifiable droppings, holes or webs, termites are often a silent, hidden menace wreaking havoc on your home right under your nose. You may not even find the colony until it’s too late and you have a full-blown infestation on your hands. However, it’s possible to track down termites if you know what to look for. They often leave subtle clues behind that could be used to track down and eliminate the colony before it becomes a major problem in your home. Keep an eye out for these signs of an infestation to minimize damage to your home and property.
Swarming
The presence of reproductive winged termites that swarm to other viable nesting areas is the most visible indicator of a termite problem. They are likely detected during the springtime (though it can be Summer or Fall) because swarms are prone to warmer temperatures and moister conditions. A property manager, maintenance technician or homeowner may find dead swarmers or their translucent wings below glass doors or by windows sills where they have tried to exit the structure or home.
Wood Damage
Another tried and true method for detecting termites is to inspect the wood of your property or home firsthand. Using either a flat-head screwdriver or another bladed tool, probe suspect wood to see if it is decayed, weakened, or hollowed out. You should also be on the lookout for dirt or sod packed within the wood because termites use it to keep their surroundings dark and moist.
Swarming
The presence of reproductive winged termites that swarm to other viable nesting areas is the most visible indicator of a termite problem. They are likely detected during the springtime (though it can be Summer or Fall) because swarms are prone to warmer temperatures and moister conditions. A property manager, maintenance technician or homeowner may find dead swarmers or their translucent wings below glass doors or by windows sills where they have tried to exit the structure or home.
Wood Damage
Another tried and true method for detecting termites is to inspect the wood of your property or home firsthand. Using either a flat-head screwdriver or another bladed tool, probe suspect wood to see if it is decayed, weakened, or hollowed out. You should also be on the lookout for dirt or sod packed within the wood because termites use it to keep their surroundings dark and moist.
Tunnels
The last tell-tale sign of termites is the presence of mud passageways extending from their colony and nearby infested wood. Shelter tubes are comprised of saliva and earth and easily identified by their pencil-thick structures. You will likely find these inside your walls or on the foundation of your home or properties close to the ground.
Tunnels
The last tell-tale sign of termites is the presence of mud passageways extending from their colony and nearby infested wood. Shelter tubes are comprised of saliva and earth and easily identified by their pencil-thick structures. You will likely find these inside your walls or on the foundation of your home or properties close to the ground.
Prevent the Infestation
Now that you know your pests and what indicates their presence, it is critical that you learn how to prevent vulnerabilities. Crawl spaces, attics, wall cavities and dated ventilation systems are all at risk of becoming a termite host, so be sure to clear all wet sediment and dirt so there is less chance of any termite contact. Another factor to consider is these pests’ need moisture. Be wary of leaky roofs, defective plumbing, and areas susceptible to flooding. Another easy deterrent is the separation of mulch, soil, and other wood from your home or property areas. You may also treat your properties wood structures with various chemical seals and varnishes to help avert attacks. Out of all of these preventative measures, however, they are all surpassed by the termite-proofing of your structure. After all, the professionals are the best equipped and most effective at getting the job done right and serving your specific needs on a case-by-case basis.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, it is imperative that you understand the potential damage that termites pose to you. Whether the infestation results in an expensive extermination process or dangerous structural damages, it is always best to be proactive and act before those bugs strike. By better understanding these pests of your area, their signs of nesting, and the ways to defend your homes and properties, you will sleep better knowing that all are safe from termites.
Cyndi Graves
Marketing Communication Specialist
OPC Pest Services
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