There are a variety of pests that can cause property damage to homes and businesses. Still, one species really takes the prize for being extraordinarily damaging and expensive to deal with. It’s probably no surprise that this species is the termite as they have a reputation for being invasive, but even still, many people don’t realize just how much damage these tiny insects can do. That’s why this guide is here to help you learn how to identify and prevent termites in Lubbock so that you can save your property from their destruction.
Termite infestations can cost property owners thousands of dollars of damage as they chew through wood 24/7, and they can destroy everything from structural beams to flooring and drywall.
What Do Termites Look Like?
Termites have different looks depending on the role they play in the caste system. The worker and soldier termites do not have any wings. They are usually a creamy white color and have darker heads.
On the other hand, the termite swarmers do have wings as they will leave the nest to reproduce. They look more like flying ants and are a dark brown to black color. You are most likely to see the termite swarmers, but it’s still challenging to notice termites until the infestation has grown.
Why It’s Difficult To Spot Termites At First
Termites live inside walls and flooring, and since they live tunneled into the wood, they are very difficult to see. You likely won’t even notice they are around unless the infestation has grown out of control. Termite infestations can go unnoticed for months or even years. Unlike some pests, such as ants, that will seek out human food sources, termites use the cellulose fibers in wood for their meal, so they don’t have to leave the safety of their colonies. This makes spotting them a challenge.
Signs Of Termite Activity
Knowing other signs of termite activity is vital in order to catch infestations before they’ve done a lot of damage. Here are signs to look out for:
- Small pellets around walls that are actually termite fecal matter known as frass
- Pinpoint holes in walls and drywall
- Squeaking and buckling floorboards
- Window and doors fitting tightly in their frames
- Discarded wings around the property
- Walls or wallpaper that look water damaged without a water source
Even with knowing these signs of termites, by the time you pick up on them, some damage will already have occurred. In order to get the best termite protection and prevent termites early on, annual termite inspections are key.
What To Do If You See Signs Of Termites
Once you’ve noticed any sign of a termite problem, the best thing to do is contact the pest control professionals. Even if you aren’t completely sure that termites are around, it’s better to have experts come and evaluate the property.
Termites are basically impossible to remove using DIY methods because they are so invasive and hard to access. The only effective way to truly remove them once and for all is with assistance from EnviroGuard.
Call us today to learn more about our termite control options or to book an annual inspection.