How to Identify and Control Termites

Termite damage is something nearly every homeowner worries about. You just hope that an infestation does not happen to your property. Termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage every year. And property owners will spend over two billion dollars to treat their intrusion. However, it is not all doom and gloom, because you can be a step ahead and identify the termites and eradicate them before they cause damage.

Properly identifying termites is an effective preventative measure. But then you do need to know what you are looking for. We have the tips to help. But if you would like a professional opinion on the matter, please reach out to us today. We will come down and inspect your property. If you have termites, we will draw up a plan of action. The number for our office is 631-862-2560. When you call, we can answer any questions you may have about termite control on Long Island, NY. Get FREE ESTIMATES when you turn to our termite control team. Helping people across Long Island with their termite issues.

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How Do I Know if I Have Termites?

The first step in the prevention of termites is to be on alert for them in the first place. Termites are difficult to spot, since rarely emerge from tunneling through soil, mud tubes, or food sources. So, many people are not aware they have termites until it is too late. Perhaps it is a swarm they see or some damage, but they are already embedded. However, it does not have to get to that point.

There are some quick ways to inspect on your own for termite infestations. First, probe and examine exposed wood for hollow spots. You can use a flat-head screwdriver or similar tool. This will let you know if termites are tunneling. If you see swarms, attempt to identify them. Sometimes ant swarms are mistaken as termites! Which leads us to knowing the difference between ants and termites.

Ants

  • front wings are longer than the hind wings
  • the antennae are bent at a ninety-degree angle

Termites

  • their wings are roughly equal in length
  • the antennae are straight; may droop

How Can I Prevent Termite Infestation?

You can also take simple and easy measures to prevent the infestation of termites. The simplest action to take is to make any structure less attractive to termites. What this means is that, during the construction, use a concrete foundation and leave a ventilation space between the soil and wood. Also, cover any exposed wood surfaces with a sealant or metal barrier.

But there are also other termite prevention features you should maintain to ensure that termites do not infest. Here are some of those features we recommend you follow.

  • Keep the soil around the foundation of your home dry. Achieve this through proper grading and drainage, including maintenance of gutters and downspouts.
  • Reduce any openings that may offer termites access to your home. This includes filling cracks in cement foundations and around where utilities pass through the wall with cement, grout, or caulk.
  • Fix leaks ASAP. Wet and damp wood is enticing to termites.
  • Keep vents free from blockage.
  • Do not plant trees and shrubs too close to your home. Also, do not allow them to grow against exposed wood surfaces.
  • Do not pile or store firewood or wood debris next to your house.
  • And of course, periodically inspect around your home to make sure you do not see any colonies.