Termites are a problem in 49 of 50 states with Alaska being the only exception. Due to these pests, it is estimated that $50 billion in damage to buildings and structures occur each year. Making them a rather troublesome pest to deal with, extensive damage can be done to your home or business before you ever realize termites have infested. Particularly since termites consume wood from the inside out, these destructive insects can be a challenge to detect for people who do not know what to look for. In the event you hear neighbors are having an infestation, if you suspect that termites are in or just outside your home or business, or have come inside, people should call for a pro. No matter the circumstances, A-Tex Pest Management would like to elaborate on termite inspections.
Termite Swarmers
To start new colonies from well-established and successful colonies, termites will branch out. These established colonies will produce winged reproducing kings and queens, and to start new colonies, the sexually matured adults will fly off during the spring. Once they select a location for the new colony, some may see these winged insects where others might see the evidence of their shed wings. Check for swarmers and/or their wings around windowsills as this is a common area they are found. \
Termite Mud Tubes
Being strong indicator termites are present, professionals check the likely areas for mud tubes, however, if you find these first, immediately call a professional. Along your foundation, in the attic, the crawlspace, and any other entry points to your home, as well as near the pipes, professionals check these common places in the home. The construction of the mud tube is derived from soil, wood cellulose and other debris. In order to reach the wood as well as protect them from potential threats and maintain the humidity levels, termites will build these protective tubes.
Termite Mud Packs
To increase their comfort, termites will seal small gaps with dirt. The mud tubing may not necessarily be obviously found, but there is likely to be crusted dirt in the small holes or cracks found in concrete, sheetrock, mud crammed into construction joints, and even wood suggests termites.
Damaged Wood from Termites
Most do not see any distinguishable evidence on the surface of the wood when the termites are presently infesting the wood. From where they packed the galleries with mud, few, at best, may see the crusts of dirt. Though a subtle sound of hallow wood as they tap, a sign of termites is hollow wood, which a trained professional can hear the distinction. Mud will often present in termite-damaged wood in addition to long, deep parallel grooves from the excavation.
Termites in Landscaping
Though they can be a detriment in the landscaping, especially if they target your building next, termites are not just an issue inside your home or business. In addition to wooden structures, like arbors, sheds, decks, and playsets, harboring termites can be wood mulch, wood fencing, firewood, fallen dead trees or stumps. Contact a professional quickly if you suspect termites in the landscaping.
Termite Pest Inspections, Control & More in Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park & Austin Texas
The above are just a few of the common indicators professionals look for during an inspection. The professionals at A-Tex Pest Management will offer recommendations for the next step once termites are confirmed. If you suspect termites and schedule our specialists for a termite inspection, contact A-Tex Pest Management.