Did you know that termites can destroy a building in just eight years? While it sometimes takes ten or more, termites can do incredible damage despite being very tiny pests. Termites in Jacksonville are also tricky to detect and remove, so it is vital to think ahead and take steps to prevent them.
In this guide put together by the Jacksonville pest control team at Mission Pest Solutions, you'll learn what you need to know about termites. This handbook includes information on how to spot signs of termites and prevent these pests, too.
Clear Signs Of A Termite Infestation On Your Property
The most obvious sign of termite activity is seeing a termite, but this isn't as common as you'd think. Most termites never leave their colonies and don't have wings. Only the termite swarmers, responsible for reproduction and occasionally leave the nest to reproduce. These swarmers have wings and look similar to flying ants, although their wings are longer and thinner.
But, there are other indicators of termites you can watch out for besides just seeing a termite. Here are some visual signs of an infestation:
- Noticing Termite Frass Around Your Property: This frass is termite droppings and looks like sawdust.
- Discovering Signs Of Termite Damage: You may find tight-fitting doors and windows, hollow or weak sounding wooden beams, or buckling or squeaky floorboards.
- Finding Discarded Wings Around Your Yard: These wings build up after termites swarm, and you may also see dead termites that couldn't find a new nesting area soon enough.
Unfortunately, some signs of termites don't appear until some damage has already accumulated. So, the best way to prevent termite damage is to have annual termite inspections.
The Extent Of Damage Termites Can Cause On Your Property
Subterranean termites are one of the most common termite species. These termites build their nests underground in the soil and then access the wooden structures of your home by creating mud tubes. Once they get inside a structure, they will consume wood 24/7.
As the infestation grows, termites can destroy flooring, walls, drywall, and more. The damage starts small but can quickly intensify. The other issue is that termites are often around for months or even years before people notice them.
Factors That Attract Termites To Your Property
Termites are mainly attracted to access to wood and high humidity. Termites often get into buildings by soil-to-wood contact, and the more moisture issues your home has, the easier it is for termites to destroy the wood.
Therefore, you can prevent termites by removing these factors. Our team at Mission Pest Solutions advises taking these steps:
- Install a barrier between the soil and your home's foundation. This method is one of the best ways to keep termites out.
- Fix broken plumbing and clean up standing water to reduce humidity levels on your property.
- Throw away decaying or water-damaged wood from the yard. Also, store firewood and lumber in a dry, organized place that's at least 30 feet away from the exterior of your house.
Our highly trained Jacksonville termite control experts can assist you with preventing and removing termites.
Call The Professionals At The First Sign Of Termites On Your Property
Do you think you've seen termites around your house? Professional pest control plans are the easiest way to detect and eradicate Jacksonville termites.
At Mission Pest Solutions, we realize termites are distressing and destructive. We are happy to remove them before they destroy your beloved home. Give us a call today to find out more or book a quote.