As a property owner, you have enough to deal with, but termites are a threat that you can’t just ignore. These tiny pests are responsible for billions of dollars in property damage across the United States every year, and you could already have a termite infestation in your home or business without even knowing it. So, what’s the best way to protect your McKinney property from termites?
About Termites
Termites are some of the most populous insects on the planet, found on every continent except Antarctica. They can measure as small as 1/8 inch to over an inch in length, depending on the species, and vary from pale white to amber-brown in color. Like bees and ants, they live in large colonies with thousands of members. The colonies are lead by a queen and broken up into various castes such as workers, soldiers, and reproductives. There are at least 45 recognized species of termites, inhabiting giant clay mounds in Africa and rotting logs in Texas alike.
Termites feed on cellulose, and in the wild, termites help to break down rotting plant material into soil. This process not only clears away natural debris but helps facilitate the growth of new vegetation. As useful as termites can be in the wild, they are a nightmare for property owners to deal with.
It’s estimated that 600,000 Americans deal with termite problems every year. While damage is sometimes minor, the average cost of termite repairs in the U.S. is about $3,000 and can be severe enough to threaten the structural integrity of the property. Without recognizing the signs of termites, destruction can go on for years without many property owners realizing it.
How To Tell If You Have Termites
Some pests can’t help but reveal their presence when they infest your home or business, but termites are not one of them. Termites can be incredibly difficult to detect and leave few signs of their handiwork. But there are some telltale indications of a termite infestation that you can watch for:
- Frass – This powdery substance is produced by termites as they excavate their galleries. It resembles sawdust and accumulates in small piles.
- Termite tubes – If you see long mud tubes connecting the ground to your property, it’s a sure sign of subterranean termites.
- Jammed doors – Termites can warp the wood of door and window frames, causing them to jam.
- Visible damage – Streaks and patterns in wood flooring are a sign of termites, as well as blisters or bubbles in wallpaper.
You may still have termites without these signs. That’s why it’s important for your walls and your wallet for you to schedule annual inspections from a professional termite control service.
Why You Shouldn’t Take Care Of Termites On Your Own
Termites are tricky to deal with and many DIY methods fail. Some DIY termite control methods to avoid include:
- Baiting stations – Store-bought termite baiting stations can be somewhat effective, but are rarely placed in the right location. Without proper placement, your termites will completely ignore the bait.
- Orange oil – This messy method can eliminate drywood termites on contact, but is ineffective against subterranean termites, which infest the vast majority of U.S. properties.
- Diatomaceous earth – Without targeted placement, this messy powder will fail to kill termites.
The Best Way To Handle Termites
If you’ve got termites on your McKinney property, don’t try to take care of it yourself. Save time and money and get real results when you call the experts at Adams Exterminating. Our termite control services are safe and effective. With industry-leading Sentricon® System with Always Active™, you’ll get lasting protection that you can depend on. Get in touch with us today to schedule an inspection for your property!