There's only one insect whose level of silence can only be matched by its destructiveness: termites. The small creatures can destroy the integrity of your wooden deck, compromise your stock of firewood, and basically infiltrate any timber product you have. Because they are drawn to cellulose-based plant products, like dead wood, your bookshelves, tables, or even foundation can be targeted and ruined by an infestation.
Types of Termites
Although you might think all termites look the same, there are actually different breeds that live in different climates and feast on different types of wood.
- Subterranean Termites: As their name suggests, this species lives underground and finds its food by creating tunnels to the surface.
- Dry-wood Termites: The most common culprit for wood damage in your home, this type can thrive with little moisture and are often found in attics, decks, or furniture.
- Damp-wood Termites: Found in decaying, moist wood, this sub-species actually build their colonies inside of their food.
Signs that You Have Termites
While most homeowners may not realize they have termites until the damage is done, there are a few symptoms to look for if you're vigilant. If you begin to notice discarded insect wings on windowsills or even the guests themselves flying around, you could be witnessing a termite infestation. Another tell-tale sign is the appearance of small tubes and tunnels underneath crawl spaces or near wooden beams on the exterior of your home.
What You Should Do
Although your first instinct to save your timber may be to call an exterminator, pause for a moment and ask yourself whether you would prefer natural products or do-it-yourself methods. The cheapest DIY way to rid your home of those pesky destroyers is with beneficial nematodes. Don't worry, these are only small worms that, when placed in your garden, will bury into and kill termite larvae.
Other homeowners opt for a cardboard trap that will attract the bugs by providing an open, cellulose-based material for them to snack on. After spraying with a scent-enhancing product, simply place the box near an area you believe is crawling with termites and wait for your bait to do its job.
This cardboard trap or furniture you believe is infested can then be placed in the sun where, surprisingly, the heat and rays will actually kill off any living termites.
Prevention
Since dealing with any insect infestation is never fun, focus your efforts on prevention. Remove any rotting or decaying wood from around your home, and ensure you have no excess moisture that could attract the destructive insects.
For more tips on termite control, contact a local pest control company.
Share