This may be unsettling to read, but many pests can quietly come into your Central Ohio home or business. You could be completely unaware while insects and creatures wreck your property and belongings. Some are too small to see, while others conceal themselves in spots that are tough to reach. It’s even worse if it’s a species that has a reputation for its fast procreation. This is why being proactive about critter prevention is a must. Termites, in particular, are known for being “silent killers.”
Termites are insects that destroy wood. Many houses and establishments have crumbled or required great repairs due to them. Every year, Americans spend a joint $5 billion in related costs. Insurance companies seldom offer any help. With solid preparation for the termite season, you can avoid a bug crisis. Find out how 1st Response Pest Management can lead the way.
When Is Termite Season? What Are Signs of a Termite Infestation?
Each termite subspecies operates on a different schedule. Therefore, various groups will be busy throughout the year. Some of those that are prevalent in the region mate in the spring. This specific duty belongs to termite swarmers, winged creatures that are ½ of an inch long. Many are yellow, black, or brown. They forge out when nests are abundant with members and stop by lights before getting to the job of building new colonies. White or grayish-white workers that are 0.12 of an inch long break up wood. Soldiers protect them with thick jaws and rectangular heads. Given that these two latter classes sit out of view behind foundations or in soil, swarmers are the topmost sign of infestation. Other pointers are:
- Seeing the scattered and scaly wings of swarmers
- Finding hoards of fecal frass by termite holes, mud tubes, and maze patterns
- Having walls that sound hollow
- Detecting soft noises from behind foundations
- Noticing that paint is peeling and appears water damaged
- Drywall becoming loose and discolored
- Dislodging tiles and weakening floorboards
- Stiff window frames and doors
As walls and bases become frail from termite activity, the possible dangers can and will heighten. A post could fall on top of a loved one, patron, or employee. Not only is there a risk of injury or death, but you might be out of a home or business. Both temporary and permanent relocations have occurred in the wake of a termite infestation. Another complication that may arise is allergic reactions and flare-ups, which the insects have been linked to. They aren’t known to bring about disease, however.
Is There a Way to Prevent Termites?
Once more, year-round deterrence protocols are needed to fend off termites. Yard and building maintenance are key in the process:
- Restore or get rid of rotting and mangled wood
- Fix leaks and moisture malfunctions; those causing the wood to be wet must be handled first
- Close openings in caulk, foundations, and utility lines
- Attach screens to all exterior vents
- Routinely clean gutters and vents
- Be sure to keep free wood, such as fire logs, off the soil
- Sit woodpiles and plants at least two feet away from the property
- Regularly mow the lawn and trim greenery
How Will 1st Response Pest Management Exterminate Termites?
At 1st Response Pest Management, we can guarantee quality care, as we utilize only the best termite treatments. After our highly trained technicians thoroughly inspect your property, they will apply either Termidor liquid termiticide or install Sentricon® with Always Active™ baiting systems. These perfectly safe solutions are designed to disintegrate colonies and provide protection. Call us today at 1st Response Pest Management for a free quote!