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