Do I have termites?

two-story home tented in white and yellow canvas to treat termite infestation

Termites are frankly, icky. Termites can cause significant damage to a structure and it is important to quickly and accurately identify them and determine the extent of the infestation. To determine if you have termites, it is best to have a professional inspection. Here are the signs that you have termites, steps to get rid of the little buggers, and when and how to go straight to nukes.

Signs of termites include:

  • Mud tubes: termites build these tubes to travel from their nests to food sources.

  • Swarmers: reproductive termites that fly and mate.

  • Frass: termite droppings that look like sawdust or coffee grounds.

  • Hollow-sounding wood: tap on wooden structures, if it sounds hollow, it could indicate termite damage.

If you suspect termites, it is recommended to contact a pest control company to perform an inspection.

Here are the steps to get rid of termites:

  • Identify the type of termites: There are different types of termites, and the control measures vary based on the species.

  • Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify the extent of infestation and locate the nests.

  • Remove moisture sources: Termites are attracted to moisture, so fixing leaky pipes and removing sources of standing water can reduce their population.

  • Use chemical treatments: You can use liquid termiticides, baits, or foam treatments to kill termites and prevent them from returning. You can also hire a professional pest control company to do this for you.

  • Physical barriers: Installing physical barriers such as metal sheets, mesh, or chemical barriers can help prevent termites from entering your property.

  • Regular monitoring: Regularly monitor your property for termite activity and take steps to remove new infestations.

Note: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using chemical treatments and use caution to avoid harm to people, pets, or the environment.

Going straight to Nukes:

Tenting a house for termites involves covering the entire structure with a tent-like material and fumigating it with a pesticide to kill the termites. This process usually takes one to two days and requires the occupants to temporarily vacate the premises. The tenting process is effective in killing all stages of termites, including eggs, larvae, and adults, but it can also be expensive and potentially hazardous to the health of the occupants and the environment. Before tenting, it is recommended to have a professional inspection to confirm the presence of termites and determine the extent of the infestation.

Bottom line, don't wait -- the longer you ignore them, the more they eat, damaging your home's structure. Call us to help find an inspector. We are happy to help.

.Cecilie Korst////