Property owners know that termites are bad news, but did you know that this pest is beneficial to the environment? Termites are important decomposers, breaking down organic material and helping return nutrients to the soil.
Something else you might not know is that termites are a delicacy in some cultures. However, in Chapin, South Carolina, this is not the case. For area residents, termites are a problem, so you should know what termites look like.
It is common to think that termites look like ants, especially termite swarmers, and winged reproductive members. Although termites look like ants at a glance, they are relatives of cockroaches and not ants and can be identified by these general features:
- Swarmers that have two sets of wings of equal lengths
- Straight antennae
- Two body segments with a straight abdomen
- Creamy to brown color
Signs Of A Termite Problem
Termites are known as silent destroyers because they can go for months and even years without being noticed. To try and keep this from happening, you should know the signs of termite infestation and what to do if you see any.
Termites eat wood, which is why damage on your property can be a sign of an infestation. However, other wood-destroying insects could be the cause.
Other Signs Include:
- Mud Tubes: These are usually found along the foundation of a property and used by termites to travel from their nest in moist soil to the food source.
- Frass: A sawdust-looking material; that is created when termites eat wood.
- Droppings: These will appear pepper-like.
- Damage: Noticing peeling paint or drooping wallpaper, hollow-sounding wood, doors, and windows that are hard to close.
- Swarmers: These colony members are often the first sign of an infestation, and once they land, they will drop their wings, which can be found in piles near windowsills or baseboards.
- Sound: A soft clicking sound is made by soldiers to warn the rest of the colony of danger.
Being mindful of the pest activity on your property is essential, but even more critical are annual inspections. This is because professionals know what to look for when it comes to specific species, the damage they cause, and how they are getting inside.
Getting Rid Of A Termite Infestation
Do you see signs of termite infestation on your property? Are you thinking about treating termites yourself? A quick online search might give you some tips for termite control, including using heat, pesticides, baits, and natural solutions.
Although professional termite treatment may include some of the tips listed above, they are not implemented in the same way with the same quality products. Trying to get rid of termites on your own will only lead to more time, money, and stress spent on this already frustrating problem.
Handling A Termite Infestation
Instead of treating termites yourself, let the experts take care of this pest for you. South Carolina residents can count on The Original Bugman Pest Elimination, Inc. for assistance when it comes to wood-destroying pests like termites.
Our termite treatment process includes:
- One of our expert technicians performs a careful inspection to understand better the species we are dealing with, what damage they have caused, and what is attracting them.
- We will discuss a treatment plan with you to make sure we are meeting your needs.
- Treatment may include the use of Termidor® to protect your property.
- We will return for follow-ups until your termite problem is resolved.
Contact us at The Original Bugman Pest Elimination, Inc. at the first sign of a termite problem or schedule an inspection.
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