Termites may be tiny, but they can wreak havoc on a home. A swarm of termites can go undetected for months, if not years. During this time, they are slowly destroying the wood frame of a house. It’s important to regularly inspect your property for signs of a termite infestation. If evidence of an infestation is found, then you need to call in Melville NY’s Best Termite Control to eliminate the colony. There are several key things to look for when you suspect termites may be taking up residence in your home.
Damage to Wood
Termites feast on wood, so if they are present, you should be able to locate the damage. If no visible damage is found, try searching for hidden problems. Begin by tapping on wood walls and posts. If knocking on wood produces a hollow echo, there may be termites inside, eating the center of the wood. In fact, most damage usually starts on the inside, so if you can visually see the damage, the infestation is probably very old and large. Also be on the lookout for wood-colored droppings. This is the waste termites leave behind. The droppings, known as frass, will look like a pile of wood shavings.
Swarms of Flying Insects
One of the most obvious signs of having a termite infestation is seeing a swarm of flying, winged insects. Of course, there are many winged insects, so not all swarms will be termites. Termites have long, straight bodies. Their wings are also the same size. Ants, which often are mistaken for termites, have a narrow waist and wings of varying sizes. Sometimes termites shed their wings, so if pairs of insect wings are found on a property, it is a good indicator of a termite problem. If no insects are seen, look around for habitat holes and entrances on walls. Termites build long mud tubes on buildings and trees to allow them access in and out.
If any of these signs of a termite infestation are found on your property, it’s time bring in Melville NY’s Best Termite Control to develop a treatment plan. Even if no damage is discovered, it is smart to have your house inspected by a termite specialist every couple of years to ensure no insects have set up residency. Termites can eat thousands of dollars worth of wood, and the earlier they are caught, the less it will cost to repair the damage. Click Here for more details.
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