Termites have a reputation among home and properties owners for the damage they can cause and are aptly named "silent destroyers." Termite descriptions vary depending on the species; however, many share similar traits:
- White to dark brown coloring
- Between ¼ and ½ of an inch long
- Soft body
- Straight antenna
- Many species have members known as swarmers, which are winged reproductives
Common types of termites in the area are subterranean and drywood termites. Subterranean termites need to have contact with moist soil to survive. Because of this, they nest in the ground and use mud tubes to travel to the food source. Drywood termites, on the other hand, both consume wood and nest in it as they don't need moisture to survive.
Once termite swarmers find a suitable place for a new colony, they will drop their wings and reproduce. Eggs will then turn to nymphs, then larvae before they become adults. Larvae will become workers or soldiers. On average, termites live one to two years,
As a Plano resident, you should know how to spot a termite infestation, as early intervention is key to keeping this best from destroying your home.
What Problems Do Termites Cause
You may not have to worry about termites transmitting diseases, but they can trigger allergies when they produce dust, shed, and leave droppings. While this doesn't seem bad, termites are harmful in another way, which you are probably already aware of.
If termite infestations are left uncontrolled, termites can weaken a property's structure over time, making them a dangerous pest to live with. This is why it's essential to look for early signs of an infestation.
What Are Signs Of Termites
If you are worried about a termite infection happening on your Plano property, you should be aware of several signs. These signs include:
- Termite swarmers and piles of dropped wings found near baseboards and windowsills
- Soft clicking sounds in the walls, by soldier termites warning of danger
- Mud tubes found around the foundation
- Pepper-like droppings
- Pinholes in walls and wood with frass, which looks like sawdust
- Hollow sounding wood, walls, and doors
- Peeling paint and drooping wallpaper
If there are no signs of an active infestation on your property, you should begin with prevention by reducing the factors that make your property attractive to this pest:
- Address any moisture issues, including leaks, clogged gutters, and humidity build-up inside. You should make sure your home has proper ventilation and use dehumidifiers.
- Use crushed rocks between your home's foundation and any mulch or soil to create an 18-inch barrier.
- Remove any organic debris from your property, such as leaf piles, dead trees, stumps, and excess foliage.
- Seal any cracks, gaps, and any other potential entry points in the foundation of your home.
The to prevent a termite infestation is with annual inspections and ongoing assistance from pest control experts.
What Can Professionals Do About Termites
If you spot signs of a termite infestation on your Plano property, the best thing to do is contact professionals. All-Safe Pest & Termite, locally owned and family operated, offers quick and effective pest control solutions to keep you and your family safe from pests that threaten your home.
Don't wait; call All-Safe Pest & Termite today to learn more about the termite control services offered and how you can get started today!