Termites are some of the most frightening pests to encounter. This is not because they attack, sting, bite, or transmit diseases, but because they can destroy a home from the inside out. While we have relief from some pests in Louisville in the winter, termites aren’t among them. A well-established colony in or near your home can be a threat through the winter.
Why are Termites Still a Problem in Warmer Months?
While termites thrive in the warmer months, once they’ve found a spot in your home to build their colonies, they aren’t bothered by outdoor temperatures. It’s not likely you will find a new swarm in the winter, but established colonies will continue to be active. They will continue to feed and reproduce year-round doing damage to your Louisville home.
How Can You Identify a Termite Infestation?
There are several signs that might indicate that your home is infested with termites. Some of these include:
- HOLLOWED OR DAMAGED WOOD
Wood damage can be found below and behind surfaces like walls, floors and crawl spaces. Termites survive by eating cellulose products such as wood. As they move through your support beams and framework, they leave grooves that can damage your home structurally. - EVIDENCE OF SWARMS
Termite wings can be found near closed windows or other entry points. When swarmers mate, they discard their wings. Termite wings are all the same size which can distinguish them from flying ants that have one pair of wings shorter than the other. - MUD TUBES
Mud tubes can be found wherever the ground meets a house. Termites use these tube tunnels to move from one place to the next.
How Much Damage Can Termites Do?
Termites feast exclusively on wood and, given time, they can completely devastate a house. They are responsible for extensive property damage that causes homeowners billions of dollars annually in the US. Depending on the size of the colony and length of infestation, termites can destroy framing, furniture, and any other wooden structures. Termites can cause structural damage and create multiple safety hazards in your home. Termites do not sleep and constantly feed all hours a day, every day. By the time you are aware of an infestation, it may be too late.
How Can You Stop an Invasion?
Attempting to prevent a termite invasion on your own is a futile task. However, there are steps you can take to make your home less attractive to termites. Moisture is key. Termites thrive in humid environments and damp wood. If you can keep your foundation dry, drains clear, prevent moisture in your basement and crawl spaces, then you might keep termites away.
The best option for completely ridding your home and property of termites is professional service from Action Pest Control. Our termite control program includes a thorough termite inspection, a customized treatment designed to destroy the entire colony, a money-back guarantee and damage warranty. Don’t let termites be a worry this winter in Louisville, contact us at Action Pest Control today.