One of the most frustrating problems a homeowner can face is a termite infestation. Termites can do serious damage to a house. If the infestation gets too bad, it can even lead to the entire structure of your home failing. Even the ceiling could collapse in. Overall, you must stop termites early to stave off the worst of the damage.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
There are particular signs you should look for that will indicate you have a termite problem. Examine your drywall. If you see small holes, those could have been made by termites. Tap on some of the wood in your home. If it sounds hollow, there may be a termite infestation. Crumbling wood or piles of tiny pellets on the floor could be another example. Your floors may begin buckling, and other wood installations in your home may begin failing. The appearance of “mud tubes” or piles of tiny insect wings on the floor could be another sign. Doors and windows may begin sticking, and your floors could suddenly become squeaky.
Termite Control
Once you discover the existence of termites in or around your home, your only option is to obtain termite control services from professionals. These services will include an inspection of your home to discover any signs or points of infestation you have missed. Afterwards, the extermination process will begin. This will typically include the use of a powerful pesticide known as termiticide. Hundreds of gallons of this pesticide may be sprayed and pumped into at-risk areas such as the soil surrounding the foundation of the house, under concrete slabs, and around walls connected to the foundation.
The Causes of Termite Infestations
Certain conditions in and around your home can lead to termite infestations. If you want to stop your home from becoming infested, you should remove these issues immediately. You should inspect every part of your home with exposed wood. If that wood is in contact with soil, leaves or mulch, it could create a high risk of termite infestation. The same is true for insulation or siding. Wet wood is another high risk factor you should look for. If you must have a wood pile for campfires or whatever purpose, make sure that wood pile is stored far away from your home.
Overall, termites can absolutely destroy the structure of your home. If not addressed, the house could become a total loss. If you notice the signs of termites in your home, hire exterminators to eliminate the problem as soon as possible.
About the author:
Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.