Termite Identification & Prevention
What are termites?
Termites are small wood-eating social insects that live together in cooperative groups. In Florida, termites sustain large populations and are a year-round threat to homeowners.
Termites get all their nutrients from cellulose found in wood and other plant matter. Most species prefer to feed on wet or decaying wood, though these pests can also consume things like paper, plastic, mortar, and drywall.
Are termites dangerous?
Termites are among the biggest threats to homes and other structures in Florida. These small insects find their way into homes and businesses, using structural wood and other wooden elements as a food source.
Because termites cause more than five billion dollars in damage across the United States each year, these are a pest you can't ignore. Termites are not a direct danger to people, but they are a huge threat to our homes' structural integrity and the state of our bank accounts.
Why do I have a termite problem?
Florida provides the moisture and warm temperatures that allow termites to thrive. They live outside all around us, and it is highly likely that if they haven't already found their way onto your property, they eventually will.
Worker termites leave the nest each day to forage for food to bring back to the nest. Cracks in the foundation and pieces of wood, making contact with the ground, providing them with entry points into your home. Once inside, things like high humidity levels, moisture damage, and structural wood located around pipes, doors, and windows entice them to stay.
It is quite common for termites to be moving in and out of a house for years without the homeowner being any the wiser. Years of termites damage is difficult and costly to repair.
Where will I find termites?
Though termites and ants have similar social structures, they are two very different creatures. If there are ants on your property, you will know they are present. However, you aren't going to find termites walking around your kitchen, gardens, or yard.
Termites keep their presence very well hidden, living in underground nests, traveling through the soil, and feeding on the interior of pieces of wood. Their ability to remain hidden allows these pests to cause so much damage and be a tricky pest to control and eliminate.
How do I get rid of termites?
If you are experiencing problems with termites, it is best to work with a local professional. For the best termite control in the Jacksonville area, reach out to Mission Pest Solutions. Our professionals are friendly, experienced, and dedicated to providing the highest-quality home and commercial pest control services possible.
Our home termite control services include an inspection so we can discover where termites are hiding on your property and in your home. We will then develop a treatment plan unique to your property and, using bait stations, eliminate these destructive pests. To learn more about the termites that live in Florida and how we can work together to guard your property against them, call Mission Pest Solutions today!
How can I prevent termites in the future?
Use the following tips to help prevent problems with destructive termites:
- Use non-organic materials (crushed stone) in gardens around the perimeter of your home.
- Remove fallen trees and tree stumps from your yard.
- Stop termites from finding their way into your home by repairing any cracks in its foundation.
- Eliminate excess water by fixing leaky pipes and fixtures.
- Reduce humidity levels in your home using dehumidifiers.
To learn more about our effective termite control services or our construction pre-treatment termite services, contact us today!