Latham Homeowners Guide To Effective Termite Control

Termites are some of the most destructive pests that you could have infesting your Latham home. In fact, termites are responsible for over five billion dollars in damages each year across the United States. When it comes to infestations, the longer they persist, the more destructive they tend to be. Therefore, Latham homeowners need to know the signs of a termite infestation. Furthermore, you should also know the effective termite control solutions that you can count on to get rid of these destructive pests.

What Do Termites Look Like?

Termites are ant-like insects that can be yellow, red, brown, or black. While out in the world, they are actually quite beneficial to the ecosystem as they help break down fallen trees. However, when they come into our homes, they can cause all sorts of damage because termites feed on the cellulose found in wood, meaning they will literally eat your home. 

Termites live in colonies that consist of three separate castes. These are workers, soldiers, and reproductives. Workers gather food for the colony while soldiers protect the colony from threats. Reproductives have wings and set out at certain times of year to create new colonies; this process creates a termite swarm. Termites typically swarm from late spring to early fall.

What Are Signs Of A Termite Infestation?

Typically, termites remain in their underground nests or within the wood they are eating. As such, you are not likely to ever see an actual termite in your home, even if it is infested. The only time you might spot termites is during a termite swarm. Therefore, many people don’t even realize they have a termite infestation until it’s too late and the damage is done. Fortunately, there are a few signs that you can look for to tell if termites have infested your home. These include:

• Soft rustling noises coming from inside the walls.
• Frass on the surfaces of your home.
• Winged termites or their shed wings on the surfaces of your house. 
• Tight-fitting windows and doors. 
• Hollow-sounding wood in your home.
• Mud tubes in the soil around your house. 

Even if you don’t notice any signs of a termite infestation, it is important to have your home professionally inspected once a year.

Does DIY Termite Control Work?

When facing termite infestations, many people think they can take care of the problem on their own. DIY termite treatments include the use of orange oil and dangerous insecticides. Unfortunately, most DIY techniques aren’t all that effective and don’t end up saving you any money in the long run. They either don’t address entire infestations, or they don’t work as advertised. When it comes to termites, the longer they are allowed to persist, the more damage they can do. Therefore, if you don’t address the entire infestation, your home is still exposed to potential damage.

What Should You Do If Termites Infest Your Home?

If your home becomes infested with termites, don’t waste time and money by trying to take care of it on your own. Instead, contact the pest professionals here at Absolute Pest Control. Our certified pest technicians have the experience and expertise needed to eliminate any termite infestation you may be dealing with effectively. Furthermore, we will also work with you to take the proper steps to make your home less exposed to future infestations. Don’t let termites destroy your house. Give us a call today to get started with a termite control program that works for you and your home.

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