Search our Site:

Learn How to Identify Termite Problems

Termites are easily confused with winged ants; consequently, it is important to learn how to distinguish between the two.

Termites are easily confused with winged ants; consequently, it is important to learn how to distinguish between the two. Termites have numerous different kinds that look quite differently. The worker termite is pale in appearance and looks somewhat like a large albino ant. Soldier termites have wings that are twice the size of their bodies and are typically found after the insect has infected your home. While working in the yard, keep an eye on dead tree stumps and old wood. If you spot termites then you know that they pose an obvious threat. Take a walk around your house and the outside of your home. Look for earth toned mud tubes that act as termite outlets. Troubles with termites usually begin 10 years or more following the construction of the home. But there have been instances of termite infestations in newer houses. It is always important to be diligent when inspecting your home. Probable areas include basement walls, wooden posts, decorative trim around doors, areas around furnaces and chimneys, moldings, and windowpanes. Make checking for termites a habit and you will save yourself plenty of money in the future.

It is often times a challenge to detect termites, because they consume your home from the inside out. If you suspect a termite colony harboring in any wooden structure then take out a screwdriver or hammer and break open the area. Worker termites do not like the sun's brightness and are likely to quickly scramble when exposed. If you start noticing bulging walls then you know you have a big problem. There are ways to protect your home before a termite infestation. Keep landscaping such as shrubs, fences, planter boxes, and trees at least two feet away from your house's foundation. Try to steer clear of using wood mulch. For interior protection, always get rid of wood debris and fix any busted pipes. Termites thrive in wet environments, so keeping pipes fixed and sprinkler heads a distance away from your foundation will help prevent them from coming into your home. If you decide to renovate, choose a wood that had been treated to check termites.

Find your next home in Arizona: Inexpensive Homes in Canyon Trails and Castlegate New Homes for Sale and Nearly New Coldwater Springs Homes for Sale. There are a number of ways to handle termites when they find a way into your home. Many people will spot the tell-tale mud tubes and treat the soil around the area. This is typically unsuccessful because termites can journey great distances into your home or discover other ways to get in. There are termite bait systems that will trap termites and also allow you to see if you have an issue. The most recommended way to treat termites or determine if they are in your home is to contact a professional. The termite control company you contact should be registered with the Department of Agriculture or other government agency that oversees the pest control in your state. Call a number of companies and ask about various treatment options and get quotes. Companies usually vary in the services provided with the warranty, but the majority will make a second visit to an area if the wood did not take the treatment the first time. Treatments will commonly prevent termites for five years, yet you ought to keep an eye on the area regularly. Termites cost homeowners huge amounts of money for treatment and construction. Always be careful and when in doubt call a reputable termite control company.

Locate a home in Arizona: