Termites are wood-destroying insects that cause tremendous amounts of property damage each year. They generally target areas of wood that have experienced some form of water damage. Termites tend to live in massive colonies where there are separate classifications or castes based on their working role for the group.
Pest Control In Colorado Springs
You should contact a licensed pest controller if you suspect a problem involving termites. Failing to respond quickly can result in further costly Colorado Springs property damage.
What Do Termites Look Like?
Termites are “ant-like” creatures that exist throughout the U.S. They might appear in white, tan, or brown colors and are usually less than a ½ of an inch in length. Keep in mind that some termites involved in reproduction have wings.
Are termites dangerous? Experts don’t consider termites to be dangerous to human health, such as creatures that carry disease or those that can deliver a painful sting. However, they may create significant property damage that home insurance policies often do not cover. In rare cases, a termite infestation may create substantial damage to a wooden support post or beam, which could potentially result in a dangerous collapse.
What Is The Best Way To Identify Termite Damage?
What are signs of termites that a property owner might notice? Wooden floors may begin to sound “creaky” when walked on, and ceilings may appear to “sag.” Doors and windows often become increasingly more difficult to open or close because of shifts in the adjacent wooden structure. In the spring, winged “swarmers” are often visible congregating in groups as part of their mating process. Subterranean termites generally create patterned “mud tube” tunnels that are visible, which allow them safe passage to and from their underground nests.
Can you hear termites as they erode a wooden structure within your property? You might hear termite activity as they burrow through wood if you listen very closely. Keep in mind that the wood might sound “hollow” if you knock upon an area that termites have significantly damaged. You are more likely to detect termite damage visibly, as a variety of structural shifts often begin occurring that may cause walls and ceilings to become warped or otherwise disfigured.
Is There A Way To Prevent Termites For Good?
Some of the recommended best practices for limiting termites include:
- Do not allow the soil adjacent to the structure to have direct contact with any sources of wood, such as by creating a thin barrier of stone or another inorganic and durable material.
- Keep basement and crawlspace areas properly ventilated and free of moisture by using dehumidifiers if necessary.
- Promptly repair or replace any wooden parts of the property that have been water-damaged.
- Move firewood storage areas or other types of organic debris away from the structure.
- Limit the use of mulch in exterior areas or consider alternative products.
Property owners are encouraged to proactively inspect the exterior of their property each spring to detect any possible termite activity and identify and correct any potential vulnerabilities.
Professional Termite Control In Colorado Springs
A professional pest controller has the knowledge that is needed to handle termite-related concerns, including how often to treat termites and the best preventative measures that can limit the likelihood of experiencing major forms of property damage. The management team with Beeline Pest Control is committed to ensuring that our technicians are trained, educated, and equipped with the latest methods and treatments that continue to emerge in the industry. Many of these newer pest control product options are increasingly eco-friendly.
Contact our office today to schedule an inspection and estimate.