How Do You Get Termites?

As termite elimination professionals in the Valley of the Sun, we likely receive more calls about termites than any other pest. This is probably because, statistically speaking, you’ve either had termites, you have them now, or you’re going to have them again.

Termites pose a very serious danger to your home and are not easy to get rid of using do-it-yourself methods.

If left unchecked termites can cause all kinds of damage. Every year in America, termites alone cause billions of dollars in damage to homes.

Making it important to learn some of the early-warning signs that you might have an infestation. This short guide will help you know if you are at risk of getting termites, how to spot a termite, and the warning signs that you might already have termites.

Stop Termites in Their Tracks

There are a few general good practices you can take care of on your own to help reduce your risk of a termite infestation in your home.

• Never affix wooden trestles to the walls of your house as they offer an easy route into the walls of your home.
• Don’t put wooden mulch against your home. Keep it as far away as you can.
• Don’t stack firewood against your home either. Use the wood as quickly as possible. If firewood is left outside, keep it raised off the ground.
• Remove any tree stumps and dead trees or bushes from your yard. These attract termites very quickly.
• Seal all cracks and holes in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof. This will make it much harder for termites to enter your home, and they will most likely pick an easier target.

By following these good practices, you will reduce the risk of your home becoming a welcoming beacon for these not-very-friendly pests.

Is It Termites?

If you have come across some bugs around—or especially inside—your home, then you might be wondering if it’s a termite or another type of insect. It’s very easy to confuse winged termites with winged ants. They both swarm during the same times of year to locate new areas to build nests.

The only way to spot the difference is to take a close look at the insect. Termites have straight antennae, whereas ants have curved. They have straight waists, while ants’ waists are curvy. And their wings are all of the same size yet an ant’s wings are longer at the front and shorter in the rear.

They are also attracted to lights, so you will often spot them around a lamp at nighttime. They can also be found around windows and doors and are easily spotted emerging from old tree trunks or firewood.

Determine If Your Home Is Infested

There are a few clear warning signs that you might already have an infestation:

• If you see tunnels or paths that look like mud in wood in your house or your walls.
• If you find soft spots in your wood, or what looks like wood shavings.
• If you spot any worker termites or larvae, then there is almost certainty a termite infestation nearby and you should contact an exterminator right away.

Better Safe than Sorry

Since your chances of getting termites are nearly 100%, you, as the smart homeowner you are, should stay ahead of the game and schedule regular termite inspections. The pesky critters are especially prevalent after heavy rains, so in Phoenix, that means fall and spring, primarily.

Contact us or call Budget Brothers Termite & Pest Elimination today at 602-253-2495 to schedule your termite inspection. If we find them, then we’ll develop a treatment plan. Once removed by us, we’ll include a guarantee so you know you’re protected. And keeping your home protected is what we’re all after!