5 facts about termite pest control

As in most residential areas, termites are common here in Phoenix. While we do occasionally see wood-burrowing termites, subterranean termites are far more common. Unlike their above-ground counterparts, these termites live in colonies underground, so you won’t need to tent your house to get rid of them. However, subterranean termite pest control is a specialized task that you should leave to the professionals. This will give you the best chance of getting rid of them. Read on to learn how subterranean termite pest control works. 

Subterranean Termites Typically Swarm in Mid to Late Summer 

Here in Arizona, termites typically swarm towards the end of summer when the weather begins to cool off a bit. This is the time of year when they are most active, so you’ll need to be vigilant about termite pest control. They can, however, swarm earlier in the summer, especially after periods of heavy rain. Be sure to keep an eye out for them throughout the year to minimize potential damage to your home. 

Treat Nests Underground for Termite Pest Control

Because these termites burrow underground, you’ll need to take them out at the source rather than in your home. Your termite pest control service provider can identify an appropriate treatment to get rid of them without posing a risk to your family or pets. Typically, this involves treatments above the ground. Any termites that emerge will then bring the materials back into the nest, spreading it to others in the colony in the process.

Watch Out for Damp Wood 

Although subterranean termites typically nest underground, they do still come above ground to feed on the wood that makes up your home. If that wood is wet or damp, they may nest there as well. Have your termite pest control specialist treat the wood to block out moisture to prevent termites from nesting. It is also a good idea to keep plants away from the sides of your house to allow any moisture to evaporate from the wood as quickly as possible. Adjust your sprinklers, if you have them, to ensure they are not spraying the sides of your house. 

Know the Signs of Subterranean Termites 

To get from their underground nests to your home, subterranean termites will often build mud tubes up the sides of your house. This will provide protection for them as they journey back and forth between the wood and their nest. Scan the sides of your home periodically, particularly along the bottom for any mud tubes they may have constructed. This is a sure-fire sign that you have a termite infestation on your hands. Watch for discarded termite wings as well. 

Keep Your Yard Well-Maintained and Tidy 

In addition to feeding on the wood that makes up your house, termites will also go for trees, firewood, mulch and other wood sources around your yard. Do your best to keep your trees and shrubs healthy to minimize rotting, which can attract termites. Keep any firewood in a dry area that is raised off the ground, and try to avoid using mulch in your garden. Clean, tidy yards will minimize termite hiding spots, making it easier to find them if they do come. 

Trust the Experts for Termite Pest Control 

Termites can be tricky to get rid of, but the team here at Budget Brothers Termite & Pest Elimination is here to help. We know exactly how to identify termite activity and the best solutions for getting rid of them. We recommend treating your home at least every two years to eliminate subterranean termites and prevent them from coming back. If you think you might have a termite infestation, get in touch with our termite pest control team today to schedule your first treatment.