For those of us living in Alabama, we know that termites are a big problem. Our area is considered to be a hot zone for these destructive pests. Every year these awful bugs cost homeowners millions of dollars in damages as their infestations often go unnoticed for a long time. This is why it is so important you understand what you should be looking for to protect your home from termite damage. Guardian Pest & Wildlife Control is here to share some tips and signs of termite activity in your home to help you avoid them.
Types of Termites Found in Alabama
There are a couple of different termite species that are commonly found in Alabama: subterranean and drywood. These are small insects that will infiltrate into the walls of your home and start eating away at your home’s structure. They eat 24/7 on your house and can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. The most active time of year for these pests is the spring and summer. There is more activity than normal after we experience significant rain storms as well. It is important to note that termites can be active during the entire year in our area though.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
When it comes to termites, you need to know what you are looking for or else they can be working away at eating your home and you would have no idea. This is why termites are known as “silent destroyers” and cause so much damage to homes across the country. Some of the biggest signs include the following:
– Termite Mud Tubes & Frass: Termites don’t actually live in your home; they build their nests deep beneath the ground and travel to your home to find food. To have the moisture that they need to survive this, they build small mud tubes on the outside of the foundation of your home. Subterranean termites use their droppings in the construction of mud tubes while drywood termites create kick out holes they use to push frass out of the nest as they consume wood.
– Discarded Swarmer Wings: when termites are swarming to find a place to set up the colony they have wings. When this process is completed, they shed the wings and you may see bits and pieces of them around doorways and windows.
– Termite Damage: You may notice that there is damage sustained to your home. Wood that sounds hollow is a good indicator that there is a termite problem.
Termite Inspections, Treatment & More in Chelsea, Trussville, Pinson, Argo, Odenville, Springville, Moody, Hoover, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Vestavia Hills & Birmingham, Alabama
To keep termites away from your home, avoid using mulches that could attract them and keep your firewood at least 20 feet away from your house. If you have any old stumps or dead trees on your property, it is wise to get rid of those as well. If there is any time that you suspect termite activity, it is important that you call on the pest professionals at Guardian Pest & Wildlife Control as soon as possible so we can inspect the property for any activity or sign of termite infestation. If we do find anything, you can rely on us to completely get rid of them so your home sustains no further damage. Call us today!
