Protecting Your Home From Termites – Holder’s Chats with KHOU

Houston-area homeowners and businesses begin noticing subterranean termites in early spring, when they become visible in swarms by entering homes, commercial buildings and other structures. Known as the “silent destroyers,” termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage each year – that’s more damage to homes and businesses than all other natural disasters combined. Adding to the challenge, termite presence is difficult to detect as their activity is hidden behind wallboards, siding or wood trim. Although termite treatment is most effective when performed by a licensed pest control professional, it is important that individuals know the signs of a termite infestation and become familiar with prevention methods to combat the invasive insects.

Due to the prevalence of termites in Houston, Holder’s Pest Solutions is educating the public and providing tips to detect and prevent termites this spring.

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Signs of a termite infestation:

A termite swarm. In early spring, swarming termites (known as alates) are generally the first sign of an infestation and often appear on windowsills or near indoor lights. Many homeowners mistake termite swarms for flying ants. However, if you find an insect that looks like a flying ant but does not have the three distinct body segments of an ant, you’ve found a termite!

Swarming termites have four wings of equal length, straight and beaded antennae, and broad bodies, whereas flying ants have four wings of unequal length, bent antennae and may look more “pinched” in appearance.

Other signs of a termite infestation include:

Mud tubes (known as subterranean termite shelter tubes) on the exterior of the home

Soft wood in the home that sounds hollow when tapped

Darkening or blistering of wood structures

Cracked or bubbling paint

Small piles of feces that resemble sawdust near a termite nest

Damage around the home, such as your fence, porch, patio or deck

Discarded wings near doors or on windowsills, indicating swarmers have entered the home or swarmers themselves, which are often mistaken for flying ants

If a termite infestation is suspected, homeowners should contact a pest control professional immediately as it can be extremely difficult to eliminate each one of them on your own.

Termite prevention methods:

Eliminate or reduce moisture in and around the home. Termites need moisture to thrive. Divert water away from your home’s foundation by installing properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. To reduce humidity, install ventilation in crawl spaces and avoid planting shrubbery and dense foliage close to the home.

Eliminate all wood-to-soil contact. This includes attached fence posts, stair casings, trellises and door facings. It is best to maintain an 18-inch gap between soil any any wood portions of the home.

Routine inspections. Perform routine foundation inspections to check for signs of termite damage. Subterranean termites are easier to identify because of their mud tubes. Dry wood termites (pictured below) are much more difficult to identify and generally require a professional inspection.

For more information, please contact Holder’s Pest Solutions.