Termite Control Points Out Infestation Evidence

Every year, termites cause billions of dollars in damage to homes, offices and other structures; early detection is the best weapon against these costly bugs; here are infestation signs for people to recognize whether they need termite control services

News provided by

TermiteControl.net

Jan 17, 2011, 07:35 ET

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Every year, business owners and homeowners pay out billions of dollars for damages caused by termites. By noticing signs of an infestation, people can contact commercial and residential termite control professionals before the problem gets out of hand.

Though it can be difficult to notice an infestation, it is not impossible if looking for the right termite evidence. There are various types of these pests in different areas of the country. Each leaves different signs of their presence. The first step for a homeowner is to arm themselves with information about which is native to their area. There are two main types to look for when determining if termite control is needed, which are drywood termites and subterranean termites.

Drywood species are usually located in warm, southern climates. They nest in wood and maintain their colonies in the wood that they feed on. They burrow in furniture and walls, leaving vast tunnel systems everywhere they migrate. They also leave piles of droppings, which are called frass. Frass looks like sawdust and will be similar to the color of the wood that the pest is eating. This can be found close by the wood that is being consumed. The sight of droppings is a sure sign that termite control is needed.

Another item to look for in a home or office is sagging walls, ceilings and floors. This damage is caused by the weakening wood structure that is unable to hold the weight of the drywall or other building materials. This can be mistaken for water damage, but if no other signs of water damage are present, but there is frass, termite control will likely be needed.

Subterranean termites have spread across the continental U.S. This species creates their colonies underground and come up to feed. These pests enter homes and buildings through cracks or other opening in the foundation. Homeowners should look for the presence of earthen mud tunnels that are dry and cylindrical. These passages are used by the termites to bring food to the colony. In the spring, one may see winged termites that can be confused with winged ants. Ants have bent antennae as where termites are straight and ants have three body segments as where termites only have two.

About TermiteControl.net:

If you suspect a termite infestation, be sure to contact a termite control professional immediately. The financial cost of waiting could be devastating. Visit TermiteControl.net to learn more about termite damage signs, your options and to get free estimates from multiple qualified and licensed companies.