Are you scared of what lurks inside the wood in your home? You can’t ignore the problem forever. Termites can cause irreparable damage if you wait too long.
You’re not the only one dealing with these pesky pests. Over 600,000 homes are infested with termites, which has totaled to a staggering $5 billion in damage! Termites have even caused millions of dollars worth of crop damage to farmers.
Stop living in fear. Banish these pests once and for all. Learn how to get rid of termites with these quick and simple tips.
Know the Signs Before You Pay
Don’t dial that number just yet. You must be entirely sure that you have a termite problem before calling a professional. Termite signs can be confused with the work of other pests.
Look for wood that buckles to the touch. Weak and brittle wood is sign number one. However, this is also common with rodents who have been chewing away at the wood in your home.
If you’re remodeling your house, you’ll notice the signs of dry wood termites right away. These guys create signature tunnels and mazes in wood panels, leaving severe damage in their wake. You’ll find this a lot in old homes and vintage pieces.
Another type of termite to watch for is the subterranean termite. These pests live in the damp soil underneath your house. These are the sneakiest termites because their signs go unnoticed until you have a full-blown infestation on your hands.
If you have a subterranean termite infestation, you may notice warping in your wooden floors, ceilings, and walls. This type of damage is often confused with water damage. If there isn’t a leak, then you know it’s termites.
So, you don’t have a wooden house?
Not even your home is safe from termites. Termites are quite comfortable with tearing up plaster and drywall. This is because drywall has cellulose, and termites love the cellulose in wood.
How to Get Rid of Termites in Your Home
You know the signs of termite damage. Now, it’s time to stop these pests in their tracks.
If you’re experienced with building houses and home improvement, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. You would need to get rid of all irreparable wood. Even then, you may still have a termite problem.
The best thing to do is to call a termite company. First, they’ll inspect your home and give you a diagnosis. Then, they’ll use tools and insecticide to rid your home of termites.
If you have a subterranean termite problem, the exterminator will use a termite soil treatment for the dirt under your home. This will also prevent them from coming back. Your exterminator might also use termite spray or foam agents to target pests in hard to reach areas.
Prevention is also crucial. Avoid stacking wood near your house, as termites love damp piles of firewood. You can also buy wood that’s been treated for termites!
Save the Wood in Your Home
Don’t wait until your termite problem gets worse. Learn how to get rid of termites before they take over your home.
Termite removal is just one responsibility you have as a homeowner. Keep up with your to-do lists with the latest lifehacks for homeowners like you.