If you haven't had a termite problem yet, consider yourself lucky. Termites are a common problem here in Mobile; our warm, humid climate attracts them, and our homes provide all the resources they need to stay alive.
Mobile pest control companies refer to termites as "silent destroyers" because they quietly eat through the structural wood in your home. By the time you notice signs of termites in your home, there is usually considerable damage.
An annual termite inspection is the best way to catch an infestation before too much destruction occurs. Professional inspections can spot signs of infestation and potential areas that may attract termites.
Inspections can also help to identify which species of termite you have, which will determine the best treatment to use. The most common types of termites that infest Mobile homes are Formosan and subterranean termites.
While both types can cause damage, Formosan termites are known to be the most aggressive. They live in large colonies with an average of 350,000 workers. Read on to learn more about these harmful pests and what you can do to stop them.
How To Identify A Termite Infestation In Your Home
The following are some signs of termites in your home that you can look out for:
- Mud tubes outside your home are a sure sign of termites. They use these tubes to travel between their nest and food source (the wood structures in our houses). Mud tubes ensure that the termites don't dry out.
- Formosan termites sometimes build secondary carton nests up high if they have sufficient moisture. Formosan termites' aerial nests are more common to see than those of subterranean termites in our area.
- Damaged wood in your home may sound hollow when tapped.
- Reproductive winged termite swarmers on your Mobile property are another sign that you have termites or that they are about to move in.
- Even if you don't see swarmers, you may notice discarded wings near windows and doors.
- Blistered and darkened wood or uneven bubbling paint in your home may also signify termites.
If you find any evidence of termite damage or signs that suggest you have them, contact a local termite company as soon as possible.
Why And How Termites Infest And Destroy Homes
Active termites infest your home for one reason; you have wood that will feed them to grow the colony. Winged termite swarmers on your Mobile property are the ones that seek out a food source and build a new nest. Moisture and water-damaged wood will attract termites in our area.
Termites eat structural wood in our houses 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They never take a break and are constantly reproducing. Depending on the species and maturity of queens, colonies can produce between 1,000 and 10,000 eggs per year. Regular termite treatments and inspections can significantly reduce your chances of infestation.
Removing Factors That Attract Termites
Here are some factors you can remove to help prevent a termite infestation in your home:
- Water near the foundation of your home will attract termites. Be sure gutters are clear and downspouts divert water away from your home.
- A termite problem often starts with water-damaged wood. Remove and replace softened or damaged wood.
- High moisture levels invite termites to your home. Properly ventilate attics, basements, and crawl spaces, and use dehumidifiers wherever needed.
- Remove any landscaping wood that may be water damaged, and check any new lumber that comes to your property for signs of termites.
- Eliminate wood-to-soil contact points; active termites travel through the soil to their food source. Mulch is a prime example of wood near soil that attracts them.
- Frequently inspect the exterior of your home and seal any cracks or crevices that termites may use as an entrance.
A thorough inspection from a local termite company will help you to find all the possible attractions for termites around your home.
Contact The Pros At The First Sign Of Termites On Your Property
Setting up an annual termite inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home. However, if you haven't had an inspection and notice any signs or evidence of termite damage, contact a local company like Ensec.
Termite damage can be very expensive and is usually not covered by homeowners' insurance. At Ensec of Alabama, our service team members provide the highest quality inspections and termite treatments so you can stop worrying about pests and enjoy your home. Reach out today to request your free estimate.