Termite Control Tips

A termite infestation can be a scary experience, especially if you're worried about the strength and integrity of your home's structure. That's why it pays to learn to recognize the signs of infestation and carry out an inspection every 1-2 years. If you think you have a problem, call in the professionals.

Termite Control: Inspect

1. In the summer months, look for dry-wood termites in swarms coming out of hidden infested spots.
2. On the first floor, try to find structural wood damage. Search where the foundation meets the walls and under exterior walls. Use a flashlight to thoroughly carry out an inspection because you may not be able to see the damage without good lighting. In fact, you may not be able to see it at all, so it's also a good idea to thump the wood with the heel of a large screwdriver and probe with a heavy-duty awl to find hollow wood.
3. If you see small tan, reddish-brown, or black droppings, you may have termites.
4. Look for mud tubes in the foundation walls. Mud tubes are the tunnels termites create in the mud from the soil to the wood. Subterranean termites actually live in the soil, not the wood, in moist areas and feed on pieces of wood.

If you have found enough evidence to confirm that your home has a termite infestation, call a professional to do another termite inspection and confirm your suspicions. If you really do have a problem, a pest control expert will tell you what he/she can do to eliminate, control, and prevent termites. Some options include treating wood and making repairs with lumber that is termite resistant.

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Some do-it-yourself prevention tips

1. Repair leaks and dripping outdoor faucets.
2. Keep on top of gutter problems so that roof water doesn't cause you trouble with termites. Remember: moisture creates ideal conditions for termite infestation.
3. Ensure grading and drainage near the foundation is problem-free.
4. Don't have any wood touching any soil. Remove stacks of firewood, for example, so that termites aren't attracted to the area.
5. Use insect screening to cover all foundation vents.
6. Close all cracks on the outside of your home with caulking between the foundation and walls.

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