Termite infestations are a homeowner's worst nightmare. Termites eat through wooden structures of properties, resulting in thousands of dollars of damage. Termite control services offer effective long-term solutions for termite infestations. All properties should be inspected for termites at least once a year to ensure that they are clear of termites.
Signs of Termites
Termites work behind walls, making it difficult to identify infestations. However, there are certain signs to look for:
- Mud-like material lining wooden structures - This muddy material is a classic sign of termite activity. When termites work their way through wood, they leave behind a mixture of their saliva, faeces and chewed up wood. This material is used to close up areas they have chewed. Termite droppings may also be spotted in certain areas of the property.
- Swarms of Termites - Termite swarms may be visible externally to the home. These swarms are made of up of male and female termites that are looking for a new location to mate and start their colony. Termites usually mate once or twice a year in autumn or spring.
- Hollow sounding walls - Walls become hollowed out as termites chew through them. As a result, a hollow sound can be heard when walls are knocked.
- Clicking sound coming from walls - Termites make this sound when they bang their heads against walls in response to danger. This sound is quite apparent when infestations are severe.
It is important to note that signs are on visible after many months of termite activity, reiterating the importance of regular inspections.
Methods of Treatment
Bait boxes are a popular treatment method for termite infestations. These are bait-loaded boxes placed around the property's parameters. Termites consume this bait and also take it back to their colony. After a certain period of time, the entire colony can be destroyed. Bait box numbers are increased or decreased depending upon the level of termite activity.
Liquid chemical barriers are also placed around the parameters of property to ward of termites. They provide an excellent preventative measure for keeping properties termite free for years.
Termiticides are the strongest treatment method, and they are used only when the infestation is quite severe. These pesticides are sprayed around areas of termite activity by qualified pest control operators. The property does need to be vacated for the day when pesticides are used.
Always call professional termite control operators when looking for termite solutions.
When the cold days of winter start to strike, you may be lulled into thinking that pests go into hibernation at this time of year. However, I can assure you that this is not the case. In fact, if anything, you are more likely to see pests in your home during winter because they are looking for somewhere warm to hide. My blog is all about pest control. I share my thoughts on topics like how to spot if you have a pest problem, and how to stop pests getting inside. If you are looking for some pest control tips and tricks, then check out my blog posts.