Termite Control 101: An Identification And Control Guide For San Diego Properties

Termite control services are the last and also the best line of defense against costly termite damage, and this article will walk you through all the basics.  

Termites can be incredibly insidious pests due to their slow and subtle approach to causing major structural damage. The consequences can be serious if left to their own devices for too long. 

Thankfully, with thoughtful prevention measures, early detection, and professional control by HomeShield Pest Control, you can significantly reduce termite damage and the chances of experiencing similar problems in the future. Without further ado, let’s get into the fundamentals of termite control.

Termite Infestation: How To Identify The Signs

Signs of termites are extremely important for termite control efforts. If you know what to look for, then you can detect termite activity early on. 

These signs include termite droppings that look like sand or salt and pepper, hollow-sounding wood, bubbling house paint, doors, and windows that suddenly stick shut, and visibly damaged wood objects and surfaces.   

Of course, you may also see living termites, though they’re usually good about staying hidden. The only major exception is when termite swarmers (i.e., termites with wings) emerge from their hiding places and go looking for places where they can start new colonies. 

If you notice any of these signs, or even if you simply have a suspicion that there are termites in your home, you should contact a pest control service in your area as soon as possible. 

The Silent Threat: Understanding Termite Damage

Avoiding termite damage is just part of keeping your home safe and reliable for years. To stress the importance of stopping termites before they can cause serious damage, we want to give you a better idea of how severe this damage can be. 

Termites don’t just eat wood inside of the home but also cellulose building materials. No matter what style of house you own, these building elements are common and essential for properly supporting the home’s structure. 

Termites are relentless in their destructive eating habits, and the more they eat, the more they’re able to not only survive but thrive inside the walls of your home. Termite colonies can grow very large, and these colonies won’t stop causing damage until removed or until the building has sustained severe damage. 

 After eliminating a termite infestation, repairing the damage can cost a few hundred dollars for relatively minor damage and several thousands of dollars for severe damage. Leaving damage unaddressed can be downright dangerous, as structural damage can weaken the integrity of a home. 

Preventing Termite Invasions: Key Strategies

On the topic of how to prevent termites, we’ve gathered together several useful tips to help keep these pests far away from your property: 

• If roof shingles have rotted or been damaged, replace them promptly. 

• Reduce moisture inside of the home. 

• Be sure to repair any leaking pipes and other sources of water damage. 

• If you keep firewood, place it far from your home; the farther, the better. 

• Check gutters for blockages and leaks. 

• Schedule regular termite inspections with a local pest control service. 

Of all these tips, we want to emphasize the importance of the moisture and water-related tips. Termites need moisture to survive. If you don’t give it to them, they won’t want to stay. 

Professional Termite Extermination: Know When To Call In The Experts

Think of professional termite control as the be-all, end-all of termite solutions. Professionals have the experience and the equipment needed to address termite problems efficiently, and they can also give expert advice to help you keep the pests out of your home for the long term. 

For home pest control near you, contact HomeShield Pest Control today.