How Can You Tell If You Have Termite Infestation?

Two of our previouse articles talked about “Home Protection from Termites” and “Termite Infestation” but how do you pinpoint a termite’s actual location or nest? Having a detective’s eye would really help, you just need to observe keenly, patiently and try to think like a termite!

Sometimes you can see termites at work boring into your woodwork. You may also be able to see the tunnels and galleries that they create. Most of the time, however, you will not see anything. That’s because these pests work within walls, below floors, and above ceilings, attacking structural members that are out of sight and not readily accessible. So, it’s possible to have termite infestation and not be aware of it. That’s why it’s a good idea to have your home inspected periodically by a professional pest control operator.

While termite eradication is a job for a trained professional, the homeowner can do some things to make his home less inviting to termites: Eliminate wood to ground contact wherever possible. That means that wooden posts should rest on concrete blocks and wooden steps should be supported by a concrete slab.

Termites thrive in moist soil. Make sure that the soil around your house is graded properly so that all rain water is carried away from the foundation. A moisture barrier such as polyethylene film will help control moisture on your home.

Don’t forget to remove any wooden debris, including scrap lumber, tree limbs, tree stumps, dead trees and even sawdust from around the house.