Termite Control – New Port Richey, Florida
Termites are a big problem in the south eastern United States. As fast as homes are built, termites are finding new sources of food supply, and as long as man continues to build, the food supply is never ending. A good way to protect your home or business from these devastating little critters is to be pro-active. Assassin Pest Management Inc. offers yearly termite inspections to give you peace of mind. Annual termite inspections will alert you early to a termite problem and keep a potential problem from getting out of control.
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites live underground in the soil and are the most widespread and destructive group of termites in the U.S. They cause more than $2 billion in damage each year, more property damage than that caused by fire and windstorm combined. Because they thrive in humid climates with temperatures above 60 degrees, these termites are most common in the South and Southeastern parts of the United States. Subterranean termites are usually most active in April, but some homeowners have seen swarms as early as February.
In nature, subterranean termites are helpful. They break down many dead trees and other wood materials that would otherwise build up into soil. Problems occur when termites attack the wooden elements of human structures -- homes, businesses and warehouses.
The maximum size of a colony depends on location, food availability and environmental conditions (especially temperature and moisture).
Signs of infestation
The presence of swarmers, wings or damaged wood signals that termites are infesting a structure. Generally, the first sign of infestation noticed by homeowners is the presence of swarming reproductives on window sills or near indoor light. Swarmers inside the house nearly always indicate an active infestation in the structure. The presence of swarmers outdoors is a natural phenomenon, but should warn that termites are near.
Wings: Another indication is the presence of wings, discarded by swarmers as a normal part of their behavior, found near emergence sites, on window sills or in cobwebs.
Mud Tubes: Infestations can also be detected by the presence of mud tubes going up the sides of piers or foundation walls.
Damaged wood: Wood damage often is not found initially, but it definitely indicates termite infestation. Any wood-to-soil contact is a potential site of entry into a home. Wood that sounds a dull, thudding noise when struck by the butt of a screwdriver should be examined. Probing suspected areas with an ice pick will also reveal termite damage.
Eastern Subterranean Termites
Eastern subterranean termites swarm in large numbers over a wide area to find a mate from another colony nest to start up a new colony. A suitable location for nesting should provide moisture and a readily available timber food source close by. Swarming usually takes place in the spring usually after rain.
Eastern subterranean termites have sharp survival instincts. If they are disturbed, the termites often abandon the associated area and move on to cause damage in other areas in the building. If you find eastern subterranean termites in or around your property, it is crucial that you do NOT disturb them and quickly call Assassin.
