Termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage each year. So, the more you know, the better you can protect your home. Stewart Termite & Pest Control debunks some myths about termites.
Can Termites Be Treated like Other Pests?
If you believe this myth you can end up in big trouble. While you might be able to kill termites on the surface with the right spray, it will have no effect on the rest of the colony. The sprays you can buy are most effective on ants, cockroaches, spiders, and silverfish. It takes specialized pest control to treat termites. Treating them the wrong way will also cause termites to retreat and make it harder for the professionals to treat them when you finally call them.
Do Termites Only Attack Homes that Aren’t on a Concrete Slab?
It is true that termites can’t eat through concrete. They can however get into your home though cracks that will develop in slabs and attack wooden framework. As long as homes are built with wood termites will continue to be a problem.
Is Termite Maintenance Needed After Termites Have Been Treated?
One treatment may not be enough to keep termites away. This can happen when treatment is limited. Termites have a big appetite and are always looking for a food source. You should have an annual termite inspection done to make sure your home is not under attack.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Termite Damage?
You need to read your insurance policy carefully. You will almost always discover that your insurance will not cover termite damage. That’s because insurance companies will tell you that termites are preventable. That means you need to take steps to keep them away and prevent damage.
If I Can’t See Them, Does it Mean I Don’t have Termites?
It takes two to four years for a termite infestation to manifest itself. It takes that long for them to become established enough for you to start seeing signs that they are there.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
1. Damaged or hollow-sounding wood. Wood damage can be seen in any area around your home. Tapping on a surface and listening for a hollow sound is a sign you have termites.
2. Termite mud tubes. Tubes are created on walls or structures for shelter as termites move from the ground into your home.
3. Bubbling or cracked paint. You may notice bubbling or flaking of paint on wood surfaces. It may look like water damage.
4. Discarded termite wings. When termites find a suitable location, they will settle in and start building. They will also leave their wings behind on the process-
5. Termite frass droppings. Termites produce a large number of droppings as they eat through the wood in your home. Droppings look like sawdust.
Termite Inspection & Treatment
Termites are probably the last pest you ever want to deal with. The sooner you deal with the problem, the less damage there will be. If you notice any signs of a termite infestation, contact Stewart Termite & Pest Control as soon as possible.