What Does Termite Damage Look Like?

What Does Termite Damage Look Like? What Causes Termites In Your Home? Termites are small, hump-backed insects that are commonly found in the wood and soil of warmer climates. When they gnaw on wood, they release a corrosive substance called “termite droppings”, which can cause long-term damage to other materials as well.

They are also found in homes, especially in houses built with wood. They can be found in the wood ceiling, walls, and floors in your home. These termites feed on the cellulose of the wood, which is why they are commonly found in wooden structures.

Read on – What Does Termite Damage Look Like?

Termites are caused by several factors, including:

(1.) Moisture. Termites need moisture to survive. The moisture can come from water leaks or poor roofing systems, which causes the wood to season faster.

(2.) Wood source. Termites only eat wood that has cellulose, which includes most exotic and tropical woods.

(3.) Cracks in the building. Termites can easily enter your home due to the lack of termite control methods.

What Does Termite Damage Look Like?

Termite damage, in the first stage, is not very noticeable. Termites have to eat the wood gradually to reach the cellulose inside of it. Once they are done with their meal, they will produce “droppings” which are noticeable.

The droppings are usually black, brown, or whitish. They are also very acidic, which is why they can easily corrode other non-organic materials such as metals and plastics. They can also cause a sulfur odor.

How To Prevent Termites In Your Home

To prevent termites in your home, here are some tips and measures that you can do:

i. Don’t buy second-hand or antique furniture

These antique pieces might contain termite-infested wood. You can also check with your local home improvement store to find out if they sell used furniture from the workshop or warehouse.

ii. Repair cracks in your home

Check the walls, floors, and roofs for cracks or gaps for entry points for termites. If there are already holes, seal them with plaster or putty. The use of cement or concrete is also recommended.

iii. Deep clean your home

Termites like dirty places. If possible, clean your home regularly to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

iv. Use cedar wood

Cedarwood can effectively deter termites because it contains natural oils that can repel termites. You can also use it in your yard or around your home.

v. Use insecticides

You can also use insecticides on the exterior walls of your home. Make sure that the insecticides are not toxic to humans and animals because there are chances that you might ingest them while cleaning or cooking. Also, make sure that the insecticide is housed in a ventilated area.

vi. Seal your roof

You can use cedar shingles or rafters on your roof as a way to avoid termites.

Can I Kill Termites On My Home?

Yes, you can kill termites by using insecticide. There are various kinds of insecticides to use. You can use a non-toxic home-use insecticide to kill small termites. You can also use a professional pest control service to get rid of the insect problem in your home. For larger termites, you can use a stronger insecticide.

How Do Professionals Kill Termites?

Professionals are using different methods to kill termites. They can also use the following:

i. Ultrasonic wave devices

By using this device, they can stun the termites while they are inside the structure. The termites will slow down and eventually die. This method is effective since the ultra rays will kill the insects instantly after coming across the termites.

ii. Fumigation

They also use this method to kill termites. The fumigation will kill the insects by exposing them to the toxic fumigant gas. You need to leave the house during fumigation because it can be very dangerous if you inhale the gasses. They will use the gas to kill termites in the walls, ceilings, floors, and other parts of your home.

iii. The use of pesticides

Professionals use poisonous pesticides to kill termites. This is one of the best ways to kill termites because it is safe for humans and animals.

vi. The use of temperature

Another way is by actually killing termites with the temperature. They can increase the temperature in your home to a certain degree, which will kill the termites instantly. The temperature will kill the termites by stopping their body’s physiological activity.

Professionals are very effective since they have the right tools, equipment, and the right chemicals to use. They are also experienced enough to know the areas where the termites have infested your home.

What Should I Do At First Sight Of Termites?

If you see termites in your home, here are some of the things that you need to do:

i. Identify the source of the termites

The first thing that you need to do is to know where the termites are located. You can see them on your flooring or walls, but you have to look for their droppings as well. You can use a white sheet to check if there are any stains on the surface. If you identify the source, you will know what you have to do to kill them or repel them.

ii. Keep your house clean and tidy

If you keep your house clean and tidy, it will make it easy for you to identify termites or their droppings. Also, if there are moisture leaks or cracks in your home, you will know how to repair them right away.

iii. Spray their hideout with pesticide

You can spray their hiding place with pesticides. It will not kill the termites, but it will make them leave your home. You might want to add the insecticide with oil so that it will cover a wider area.

iv. Call a Professional

You can call a professional pest control service to kill the termites in your house. They will also have the right tools, chemicals, and equipment to use.

What Does Termite Damage Look Like? – Conclusion

Damages done by termites can be extreme if you do not remove them. If you neglect the problem for a long time, it will be harder to solve the problem. For this reason, it is essential to take action as soon as possible if you see termites inside your home. Make sure you contact a professional pest control service now!