Termites remain a serious threat to local homes and businesses. These destructive pests have the potential to cause an extensive amount of property damage. If you fail to take action in a timely manner, the total cost to repair your dwelling could be thousands of dollars. Here are some of the key facts that you should know about termite swarms.
What exactly are termite swarms?
As the weather begins to warm up during the spring, termites often swarm looking for a new home. Their old colony may be suffering from a lack of food and water. Don’t be surprised to see these insects flying near your property. Although termite swarms are not dangerous, they are an indication of trouble to come. Often times, residents tend to find discarded wings piled up around their windows. After noticing these warning signs, you should contact an exterminator immediately. Once a new colony has been established, the queen will quickly start to lay eggs.
Where do termites live?
Termites need moisture to survive, so they typically live underneath the soil to stay hydrated. This is especially true for subterranean termites. While termites may nest in the ground, they will construct mud tubes to reach their feeding spots. Old tree stumps and decaying plants are easy food sources.
However, your home is also at risk of being attacked. They will feed on virtually any type of wooden structure. Because termites love dark and humid environments, the crawlspace under your home remains a big attraction. They can quietly feed on floorboards without you even knowing it. Once homeowners begin to notice the hollow sound of the wood, an enormous amount of damage will have already occurred.
What can you do to protect against termites?
The most important step is to have your home or business inspected by a professional pest control company. An experienced technician will be able to easily determine whether or not you have a termite problem.
Nevertheless, there are some other steps you can take to ward off termites. Avoid placing mulch near your home’s foundation. Termites could be lured by the moisture-rich soil. Be sure to check your drainage system on a regular basis. If rainwater is allowed to collect inside a crawlspace, it is only a matter of time before the damp environment attracts these problematic insects. A leaking roof is especially prone to being invaded by termites. Replace missing roof tiles as soon as possible.
Feel free to call Bug Man Exterminating for all of your pest control needs. Aside from termites, we treat a number of other common household pests. Mosquitoes, ants, and rodents are just a few of the known troublemakers.