Termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage in the US every year. They feed primarily on wood, but also commonly damage paper, books, insulation and water filtration systems. The pesky insects can also injure trees and shrubs. According to termite control experts in Houston, termites can cause huge amounts of damage to a home, often before a homeowner even knows that they have a problem.
Spring and summer are typically prime time for winged termites, known as “swarmers” to emerge from homes. This swarming activity causes termites to disperse and start new colonies. Winged termites are drawn out by the warmer temperatures, triggering them to emerge from the colony and fly into the air. Once outside, the swarmers hit the ground, drop their wings and pair off with a mate. This results in the creation of a new colony.
Although swarmers themselves don’t damage wood and don’t survive for very long, they are usually an indication that an infestation is present in your home. Experts in termite control in Houston always look for piles of wings or swarmers near windows, doors, the foundation and any adjoining porches or walls. Exterminators also look out for the other common signs of infestation, including the presence of mud tubes (which termites use for transportation inside and outside of the home), tiny holes in plaster or drywall and sunken traces behind wall coverings. These can all be strong indicators that a home is infested with termites.
Getting rid of termites is something that requires professional training and specific skills. Termite removal experts know where to look in a building for problems, including critical areas that termites are most likely to enter. These areas are often hidden and difficult to access unless you know what to look for. Treatments typically include a large amount of a liquid pesticide, known as termiticide, which is injected throughout the structure, including alongside the foundation, beneath concrete slabs and within the walls of the foundation.
Although there are do-it-yourself options available for getting rid of termites, they usually aren’t effective enough to completely get rid of the problem. Hiring a professional termite control company who can inspect and treat any problem areas is the only way to remove a termite infestation from your home.