How to Prevent and Handle Termite Infestations

Termites are one of the most destructive pests you can have in your household. Within hours, they can remove an entire wood wall. You can be completely unaware of a termite problem only to wake up with an entirely destroyed wall or door. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent termites from making home and destroying parts of your house.

Be careful about soil and wood connections
Termites usually begin in the soil. Eventually, they move into a wood structure and then eat entirely through that. Areas of the home that connect soil with wood, such as crawl spaces and some basements may be especially prone to termite problems. It is important to cover any and all of these places with wood. You will also want to seal the cracks to prevent termites from finding a way from the soil into the wood. Remember to continually check these areas, as wood can wear away and become exposed to the soil.

Inspect and treat for termites upon purchase
Homes that have been affected by termites previously are more prone to additional termite problems. The best way to get in front of a termite problem is to schedule a full termite inspection and pest control service if needed. Termite control companies not only look for signs of termites but also look for areas that termites can get through. Termites don?t need much room to squeeze inside of your home or business. In fact, they can enter a structure through a space as small as one and 32nd of an inch. Hiring a termite control company for inspections before you have an actual termite problem can save you a lot of money in the long run.

Professionally remove termites when there is a problem
Although there are many pesticides and products on the market that claim to get rid of termites, they do not guarantee that all of the termites and their environment are removed. Because a second infestation is so common, it is important to hire professional termite control upon the first sight of termites. Pest extermination companies are experienced and know how to properly and effectively remove all termites. If their entire environment is not removed, it is likely that you will have another termite infestation shortly after.

Keep up with an annual termite control
If you have had problems with termites in the past, it can be helpful to spray for termites regularly. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), U.S. residents spend at least $1 billion on Formosan termite control and repairs each year. Some experts estimate the number is closer to $2 billion. While you cannot entirely prevent the possibility of termites, you can reduce the damages by spraying annually. The importance of pest control is that it properly handles the problem and reduces the chances of it occurring again, which could be especially expensive.

Understand the signs and symptoms of termites
The signs of a termite problem can be difficult to identify, especially if you have never had termites before. However, the best way to get ahead of termite control is to identify the problem immediately. Work with your exterminator on better understanding the symptoms of termites. That way, when you notice damage by termites, you can have it professionally handled immediately. This will save you money, damages, and time.

In an average year, termites are responsible for $1 billion to $2 billion in property damage. Many homeowners do not realize that they have a termite problem until the damage is extensive. Get ahead of termite problems by scheduling annual inspections and sprays. Also, learn the symptoms of termites and know when to call in a professional for removal. Don?t let termites damage the condition of your house.