Termites rank among the most damaging pests that you can encounter as a homeowner in Columbia, SC. These wood-devouring insects can work their way through the very core structure of your home, and do it so covertly that you’ll usually be completely unaware of the damage until it’s far too late.
Additionally, the humid subtropical climate of Columbia, SC, provides an ideal environment for termites. Although the kinds of termites most likely to infest your house and other types of wood structures can be effectively dealt with, it’s rarely an easy task.
And while the best way to prevent serious termite issues is to simply make sure you schedule regular inspection and termite control Columbia SC services, not everything always works as easily as it could. Here is more information to help you determine if you’re dealing with a termite issue and what you can do to address it:
Understanding Termite Threats in Columbia, SC
Unfortunately, the climate in Columbia suits termites perfectly. It is warm and humid; the ideal environment for insects, particularly subterranean termites, the most common variety here.
These wood-eating pests live underground, and they access the wood structures in your home by burrowing through mud tubes. You might not ever see them. But you will see these signs of an infestation:
Discarded Wings
Subterranean termites send out swarmers when it is time for them to reproduce. These swarmers are a bit larger than your typical house fly, and they will shed their wings when they find a mate and start making a mud tube.
Mud Tubes
These are the arteries through which subterranean termites access your home’s wood structure. If you find an unexplained hole in your drywall, look behind it for a mud tube.
Wood Damage
Termites’ ultimate purpose is to feed on the wood structures in your home. Once you begin visibly seeing this sign, they have already done a considerable amount of damage.
Preventative Measures for Termite Protection
- Remove Any Excess Water from Around Your House: Lack of moisture is the best termite repellent. Keep your home as dry as possible.
- Keep up a Termite Barrier: A chemical barrier that employs termiticides in liquid form is an excellent way to stave off termites.
- Frequent Evaluations: The presence of termites can be early detected by annual inspections from a professional termite control Columbia SC service.
- Caulk and Seal Openings and Cracks: Your house can be invaded through tiny openings in your foundation, walls, and even around your utility pipes. To keep them out, seal cracks and other openings with caulk or expanding foam.
- Utilize Materials That Resist Termites: When building or remodeling, think about using materials that resist termites, like concrete, metal, or wood that has been treated to resist them.
Never Neglect Professional Termite Control Columbia SC Pest Services
Avoiding a termite infestation means staying alert, maintaining your house, and calling in the pros when necessary. Moisture control is job number one. After that, ensure that there’s no plain, appetizing, exposed wood anywhere inside or outside the house.
Finally, make sure to perform regular inspections to confirm the absence of these destructive pests. And even if everything is fine, continue to practice all relevant preventative measures.