What Are Termites?

Feeding primarily on wood, termites threaten homeowners nationwide due to the structural damage they cause. However, that doesn’t mean you must endure a termite infestation in your home. With the right information and resources, such as those offered with Accel Pest and Termite Control, you can kick termites out of your home for good. Let our team provide the information needed to identify and remove your termite problem.

How To Identify Termites

Although there are many different types of termites, there are some common characteristics shared among all termite species. They are approximately one-quarter to half an inch long and have straight antennas and soft bodies. Their body color ranges from white to light brown, with swarming termites often taking on a darker hue. Several species of termites have the ability to fly. These species are identifiable by two pairs of wings spanning their bodies. 

Why Do I Have Termites in My Home? 

Termites find their way into your home by traveling from their colonies inside your yard to your home’s foundation. They are often attracted to a home’s wooden structures, damp soil near the foundation, and trees or shrubs planted around your house. When they receive enough moisture to maintain above ground and not have to retreat to damp soil, they can deal a ton of damage to the integrity of your home.

Termite Prevention Tips

The best way to avoid a termite problem is by not having an infestation in your home to begin with. Thankfully, there are ways you can make your home less appealing to termites and avoid any issues. Here are some of the preventive measures you can take to protect your home from a potential termite infestation:

• Keep firewood and other lumber away from the foundation.
• Repair leaky faucets.
• Remove standing water sources.
• Keep all vents clean and open.
• Seal away entry points around water, utility lines, and pipes.

However, even when you take three simple preventive methods, they won’t be enough to effectively remove an existing termite infestation or even bar one from entering your home. That’s why it’s so important to receive regular pest control treatments if you think you have a termite infestation in your home.