Termite infestation is a common problem that can cause significant damage to homes, wooden furniture and other structures. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to identify the issue as termites do not look any different from the surface. This is why it is vital to give attention to identifying wood-devouring and wood-destroying insect infestation.

Identifying Wood-Destroying Insects

The quicker you can identify wood-destroying insects in your home, the less damage you’ll have on your property. If you wait too long you could risk damaging your property beyond repair..

Importance of Termite Inspection

Termite inspections are not only recommended for existing homeowners but also for those purchasing a new house. It is highly recommended to get a professional pest control company to perform termite inspections as it can save future damage to your property. Repairing termite-damaged property can be very expensive, so it is better to spend money on termite inspections to prevent future damage.

New Home Termite Inspections

It is essential to get rid of wood-destroying insects, and it is not an easy task. All prospective homebuyers should perform termite inspections with required real estate transactions. Prevention is better than cure, so regular annual termite inspections by a reputed termite pest control company are highly recommended for all homeowners. This is a cost-effective measure to protect your property from termite damage.

Identifying Termites

Termites have a straight long body of about one-half inch long and usually live inside the infested wood. Drywood termite swarmers are red, while subterranean termites are solid black. Worker termites have white one-quarter-inch long bodies.

Signs You May Be Dealing With Wood-Destroying Insects

Wood-destroying insects can cause significant damage to your home or business, often without you even knowing it. These insects include termites, carpenter ants, and powderpost beetles. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs you should look out for to identify if you have a wood-destroying insect infestation.

Soft Spots in Wooden Flooring and Stairs

One of the most common signs of a wood-destroying insect infestation is soft spots in wooden flooring and stairs. These soft spots are caused by insects eating away at the wood, which weakens it over time. If you notice any soft spots in your flooring or stairs, it’s important to have a professional inspect them as soon as possible.

Mud Tubes on the Outside of Your Home

Termites and other wood-destroying insects build mud tubes to protect themselves while they travel from their nests to your home. These tubes can be found on the outside of your home and are usually about the width of a pencil. If you notice any mud tubes, it’s a sign that you have a termite or other insect infestation.

Hollow Places in Your Wooden Rails, Studs, and Floor

Wood-destroying insects like termites and carpenter ants can create hollow places in your wooden rails, studs, and floors. If you tap on the wood and it sounds hollow, it’s a sign that the wood has been eaten away by insects.

Windows and Doors That Have Mysteriously Started Jamming

If your windows and doors have suddenly started jamming, it could be a sign that they have been damaged by wood-destroying insects. These insects can eat away at the wood around your windows and doors, causing them to stick or become difficult to open.

Excess Moisture, Especially in Basements and Attics

Wood-destroying insects thrive in moist environments, so excess moisture in your basement or attic can attract them. If you notice any signs of water damage or excess moisture, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent wood-destroying insects from infesting your home.

Holes in Your Home’s Exterior Surfaces

Insects like carpenter bees can drill holes in your home’s exterior surfaces, such as your fascia or soffit. These holes can weaken the wood and attract other wood-destroying insects.

Termites Leave Behind Discarded Wings, Which You May Find in Piles

When termites swarm, they leave behind discarded wings. If you find piles of these wings, it’s a sign that termites have been in your home.

Something Similar to a Bumblebee Buzzing Just Outside Your Home

Carpenter bees make a buzzing sound that is similar to a bumblebee. If you hear this sound just outside your home, it could be a sign that you have a carpenter bee infestation.

Wood That Seems to be Disintegrating

If your wood is disintegrating or crumbling, it’s a sign that it has been damaged by wood-destroying insects. This can be a serious issue and should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible.

Destroying & Dealing With Wood-Destroying Insects

Dealing with wood-destroying insects can be a daunting task. These pests can cause significant damage to your property if left untreated. Let’s discuss some steps you can take to deal with wood-destroying insects and prevent further damage.

Termite Prevention

Termites dwell in dark and damp places, so keeping the home dry can help prevent them. Eliminating stagnant water is also necessary as it encourages insect breeding. Keep your home and surroundings clean and take care of loose tree trunks and dead tree branches. It is better to use pebble stones instead of mulch or wood around your home’s foundation. Be careful with firewood, keep them dry and seal even the smallest cracks around your home.

Termite Barriers

Termite barriers are physical or chemical barriers that are installed in homes to prevent termites from entering and damaging the property.

Physical barriers are made of materials that termites cannot chew through, such as stainless steel mesh or crushed rock.

Chemical barriers, on the other hand, are created by applying a liquid chemical to the soil around the perimeter of the building. The chemical is designed to repel or kill termites before they can reach the structure.

The benefits of termite barriers are that they provide long-term protection against termite infestations and can save homeowners thousands of dollars in repair costs. Prevention is crucial when it comes to termites, and termite barriers are an effective way to prevent an infestation before it occurs.

Hiring a Professional Pest Control Service

It is highly recommended to hire a professional pest control service at least once a year on a regular schedule for inside and outside your home. This can help to identify and prevent termite infestations and other pest problems. Taking these preventive measures will save you from costly repairs and ensure the safety of your property