Few things are more distressing than noticing you have a termite problem in the walls of your property. These silent destroyers can wreak havoc fast and cause significant damage. Unfortunately, an intrusion can go undetected for a long time, sometimes even years, as they turn your home into Swiss cheese from the inside out.
In this article on termite control in Longview, the Gecko Pest Control experts will help you explore practical ways to identify intrusions and show how to keep them at bay to keep you and your home safe. Together, we can protect your property from these problematic insects for year-round protection.
How A Termite Infestation Starts
Termites are notoriously destructive insects. They start their infestation when they find a suitable place, typically with damp wood or wood-to-soil contact.
Swarmers, the winged reproductive members of the group, will come out of mature colonies to mate and establish new colonies. You might spot them around your windows and doors, as they favor light and warmth. They shed their wings after mating, and the queen of the new group starts laying eggs.
The colony grows as the eggs hatch, and worker termites will start tunneling into wood sources, breaking down cellulose in wood. Because they can go unnoticed for a long time, detecting signs of damage early on is crucial.
Signs Of Termite Damage To Look For Around The House
Staying vigilant is paramount if you suspect a termite infestation or are at high risk of one. Listen for hollow-sounding and look for damaged wood termites that might be consuming from the inside out. Mud tubes along your foundation walls are a common clue of subterranean termite activity. They provide them with moisture and allow them to travel to food sources safely. You might also notice sagging floors.
Some additional indications you have a termite problem include the following:
Discarded wings near your window sills
Visible cracks in paint or blistering walls
Accumulation of wood pellets, or frass
Recognizing these signs of termites will allow you to address potential issues promptly. Prevention is also essential to keep your home safe.
Is It Possible To Naturally Prevent Termite Infestations?
Yes, there are natural ways to avoid ending up with termites in your home, but only to a certain extent. Addressing moisture issues is paramount, as many termite species thrive in damp conditions. Ensuring proper drainage, fixing leaky faucets, and ventilating crawl spaces are all helpful and natural termite prevention tips.
Using termite-resistant wood and repellents on susceptible areas can also make a difference. We also recommend regularly inspecting your property for signs of problems and promptly replacing damaged wood. Finally, keeping firewood away from your foundation can also make it more challenging for these destructive pests to take over.
Still, nothing beats a professional inspection and regular monitoring, as natural methods have limitations and termites are resilient invaders.
What Is The Most Effective Termite Control Method?
The best way to control these unwanted insects, especially the ubiquitous subterranean termites in the area, is to work with professionals. We start with a thorough inspection to locate the colony and the vulnerable spots they will likely take over.
We will then target it with various effective products and recommend moisture control measures and structural repairs to prevent the conducive conditions that led to your termite infestation.
Regular monitoring and accurate identification are part of a thorough strategy to ensure the long-term protection of your home. While DIY can seem cost-effective, they are often inadequate and may further damage your home. We can provide effective and long-term control to keep your home safe. Let's get started.
Gecko Pest Control offers free termite inspections in Longview. Call our experts today, and we will make your home termite-free fast.