Termites: Why You Should Know How to Look for an Infestation

There are few investments more necessary to the home than termite control. Temecula homeowners typically don’t think about this investment much, aside from a compulsory check for termites upon purchasing the home. Considering the damage that these wood-eating critters can cause to a home, though, it’s important to be aware of the telltale signs of a termite infestation before the problem escalates to a dangerous level. The following article will explain why it’s important to be able to spot an infestation, and a few tips to help you look for the signs.

Call Black Knight Termite & Pest Control at 951-694-8100 for all your home and business needs!

Why Termite Infestations are Best Spotted Early

From flea control to rodent control, Temecula homeowners are always better off discovering a pest problem early on. Termite infestations, however, should be particularly concerning. It is no exaggeration to say that termites are responsible for billions of dollars’ worth of destruction and damage to American property each year. Residential homes are particularly susceptible because of the propensity of woodwork in the structures. Termites don’t only eat wood, though, they also eat books, insulation, paper, shrubs, trees, and filtration systems and liners for swimming pools. 

When and How to Look for Termites in Your Home

When: Termite inspections are typically conducted when buying or selling a home, often as a condition of a mortgage or other agreement. This is, of course, a prudent course of action considering the size and weight of such a transaction. But homeowners shouldn’t only look for signs of termite infestations and seek professional help when buying or selling their home. It’s always a good idea to be aware of the telltale signs and be ready to call in the professionals who specialize in pest control. Temecula homeowners should be particularly vigilant in the spring months, between March and May, as this is when termites often appear in homes and start colonies to take advantage of the warmer weather. 

How: There are several telltale signs to keep your eye out for. If there is a material that looks like mud around the home, or wood that is left to only a thin layer on the surface with more “mud” around any breaking points, you have spotted a sign of the “mud tubes” that termites make from feces, saliva and soil. Subterranean termites also build tubes underground to get into homes from the bottom up, although exploratory and migratory tubes might not connect to the structure of a home and drop tubes might only return from the home to the soil. In addition to mud tubes and weakened or damaged wood, you might also spot seemingly innocuous things like tiny holes in the wood and buckling paint. Also remember that not all termites are burrowers; there are also swarming termites that are often referred to as “flying ants.” These swarmers often hover near light sources on warm days.

If you have any suspicions that termites might be in or around your home, just remember to call us right away. This is the best way to protect your home, your investment, and all the loved ones relying on a safe foundation and structure surrounding them is to ask for help from the professionals.

5 Reasons Why You Might Be Attracting Ants Into Your Home

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If you find ants in your home, maybe once in a month, you will need to get rid of them but there is nothing much to get worried about. It could be summer and the heat is driving them indoors or simply an isolated case. The cause of worry starts when you spot them every few days. This means you are actually inviting them in for dinner literally! Many things we do cause the ants to scurry to our homes and they all center on food. When one ant finds food, it sends a signal to the rest through certain pheromones and the rest of the colony will join in the party. If you wonder why ants seem to be following a specific path, it is because they are – well, they are following the pheromone secreted by their colleague.

Understand what ant-invitation cards you have sent out in your home and see if you can try to cancel the invitations!

               1.       The spills and crumbs

One common statement is “I will do that later”. We say that when we spill a drink on the counter but do not want to miss a second of our favorite program or when we are too sleepy to get rid of the crumbs. In a matter of minutes, you have ants crawling up. The solution is to obviously clean up after a mess. After having a meal, a snack, cooking, or even doing dishes, ensure you wipe up the counter or table with a damp cloth to remove all sticky messes.

              2.       The dirty dishes in the sink

You may be too tired or simply lazy to do the dishes immediately but do not leave a huge mess at the sink. At least ensure you rid the food remains from the plates into the bin and place the dishes in the sink or in the dishwasher. When you leave them in the sink, pour some water over them to avoid the food sticking on the plates and the scent attracting ants.

              3.       The hurried cleaning

Many people clean the house on a daily basis but they perform a simple hurried clean of the areas one can see. Ensure that at least once in a week you clean under the fridge, the shelves, the microwave, and the area where you keep the bin. These areas tend to accumulate grease from food particles and make a buffet for the ants.

              4.       The open and ripening food

Ripe fruits do not attract ants but fruit flies that are harmless but a great nuisance. Instead of buying ripe groceries buy those about to ripen such that by the time you get to consume them they are not overripe and calling out for flies. Also, do not leave food uncovered even if it is in a dish. Place all food and ripe fruits in the fridge and well covered.

             5.       The wood lying around

If you have wood in your house such as timber or logs you use for firewood or for construction ensure they are kept in a dry areas and away from the ground. Decomposing and wet wood is food for termites and a home to carpenter ants. Once you invite one pest, the rest will come following so make sure you pay attention to this!

If you have a pest problem leave a comment or call us for advice.