Key Takeaways:
- Termites are attracted to moisture, wood, heat, light, and food sources.
- They swarm in areas of the house with moisture.
- The first step to eliminating a termite infestation is identifying the problem.
- Determine the extent of the problem by contacting a professional.
- You can use several methods to eliminate a termite infestation, including baiting and spraying.
- Follow the treatment plan exactly as directed, which usually involves regular treatments until the infestation is completely gone.
As any homeowner knows, having termites on your property can be a real nightmare. They don’t just cause extensive damage to your home, but it’s extremely difficult to eliminate a termite infestation. To prevent termites from taking over your property, you must know what they’re attracted to and what you need to do in case there’s an infestation.
Besides wood, there are two most common things termites are attracted to: water and soil. Termites need all three to survive and thrive. If you have an infestation of termites, they’re likely going after one of these three things.
Keep reading to learn more about these pesky infestations!
What Are Termites Attracted To?
Moisture
One of the things that termites are most attracted to is moisture. If any moisture is present in your home, termites will likely be drawn to it. There are a few ways to help prevent water from becoming a problem in your home. You can try fixing any leaks as soon as they appear, use a dehumidifier & ensure that all your gutters are clean and clear.
Wood
Termites are also attracted to wood, which is one of the reasons why they can be so destructive. Suppose you have any wood in or around your home. In that case, it is important to ensure it is properly sealed and protected from the elements. You should also avoid storing firewood near your home, which can attract termites.
Heat
If your home is too warm, it may be inviting for termites. You can help keep your home cool by ensuring that your vents and fans are working properly and keeping your blinds and curtains closed during the hottest hours of the day.
Light
Termites are also drawn to light, so if you have windows or doors that let in light, consider covering them up. You can also try using yellow light bulbs instead of white ones, which can help deter termites.
Food Sources
Finally, termites are also attracted to food sources. f you have any food in or around your home, keep it stored properly and away from areas where termites might be present.
Related: Get Rid of a Termite Infestation
Why Do Termites Swarm In Certain Areas Of The House?
Termites are small, wood-eating, winged insects that live in colonies underground. These colonies can number in the millions and constantly search for new food sources. The termites will swarm when a termite colony gets too big or food becomes scarce. This is when reproductive termites leave the safety of their nests and mate. After mating, the male and female termites break off their wings and establish a new colony.
Swarming usually occurs in the springtime, although it can also happen in the fall or summer. Swarms typically occur in areas of the house where there is moisture, such as near toilets, showers, or leaky pipes.
The termites are attracted to the moisture, providing an ideal environment for establishing a new colony. If you see termites swarming in your home, you must contact a pest control professional immediately. Swarming termites can cause serious damage to your property, and the sooner you get rid of them, the better.
How Can You Get Rid of Termite Infestation Safely and Effectively?
1. Identify the problem
The first step to eliminating a termite infestation is identifying the problem. This can be done by looking for signs of termites, such as wood that is damaged or has holes, or by seeing actual termites. Suppose you happen to observe any of these signs. In that case, it is important to contact a professional to have the infestation assessed.
2. Determine The Extent Of The Problem
Once the problem has been identified, it is important to determine the extent of the infestation. This can be done by a professional who will use special equipment to look for termites in hidden areas. Once the extent of the infestation is known, a professional can create a treatment plan.
3. Choose A Treatment Method
You can use several different methods to get rid of a termite infestation. The most common techniques are baiting and spraying. Baiting involves setting up special traps that lure termites into them, where they are then killed. Spraying consists in using a pesticide to kill the termites.
4. Follow The Treatment Plan
Once a treatment method has been chosen, it is important to follow the plan exactly as directed. This usually involves regular treatments until the infestation is completely gone. If the procedure is followed correctly, there is a chance that the problem will be resolved.
5. Prevent Future Problems
After an infestation has been resolved, it is important to prevent future problems. You can do this by ensuring there is no food or water source for termites and by sealing any cracks or openings in your home that could provide entry for them.
How Much Does it Cost to Get Rid of Termite Infestation?
Termite control is not a do-it-yourself project. The cost of hiring a professional exterminator depends on your home’s size, the infestation level, and the type of treatment required. For a small house with a limited amount of damage, you can expect to pay around $500. However, if your home is larger or the infestation is widespread, the cost can rise to $2,000 or more. In addition, there may be additional costs for repairing any damage that has already been done. As a result, getting an estimate from a qualified exterminator is important before beginning any treatment.
Termites can cause a lot of damage to your home or business.
Classic Pest Control Operators, Inc. provides termite prevention services designed to help you avoid costly repairs. We have been preventing termites from damaging homes and businesses for over 40 years in Lake Worth, so we know what we are doing.
You can trust us to protect your property from these destructive pests. We will install termite shields and bait stations around your home, so you can rest easy knowing that your investment is safe.
