Handle Termites in Phoenix and Tucson with Proper Pest Control
A termite infestation can completely destroy a home, making these little winged monsters a big enemy. A true infestation requires professional treatments, such as baits, liquid insecticides and fumigation. However, there are many things homeowners can do to help prevent an infestation from occurring, including:
- Keeping firewood and kindling in a separate storage area away from the walls of your home.
- Avoiding the use of wooden garden mulch, at least in the areas right next to the house.
- Doing regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that all gutters, attics and crawl spaces are free of debris that might be attractive to termites.
Be Watchful: The Scary Signs that a Termite Infestation Has Already Begun
Even if you’ve been diligent about stopping termites, you still might end up with an infestation. Keeping an eye out for the signs can help you put a stop to the problem before it gets out of control.
1. Mud Tubes
If you see little tubes made of mud on the lower exterior walls of your home, watch out. This is a sign that subterranean termites are burrowing down in search of food. They create the mud tunnels to provide moisture for their journey.
2. A Hollow Noise
Termites go down into the wood, often as deep as possible, to feed in a safe environment. Once they have been feeding a while, they will begin to hollow out large portions of the wood. When this happens, tapping on the smooth surface of the wood will produce a hollow sound. If you hear this sound, it’s important to call a pest control professional right away as you’re likely going to be dealing with a lot of damage.
3. Termite Swarms
Seeing the termites themselves is never a good sign. A swarm occurs when the termites take to the air on a mission to create new colonies, so seeing a swarm generally means an entire termite civilization is thriving somewhere nearby. Another sign of swarming termites are fallen wings.
4. Termite Droppings
Termite droppings, also known as frass, are released as the termites eat their way through your home. Frass looks a bit like sawdust. If you see it, be sure to call your local pest control specialist immediately. Frass is basically bits of your home being eaten away in front of your eyes.
Get Help from Professionals
Your home is one of the biggest investments in your life, and you have to be diligent to protect it. If you need help with termites in the Phoenix and Tucson area, contact Burns Pest Elimination. We’re knowledgeable about all aspects of termite prevention and elimination, and we are happy to help you take back control over your home.
