What Should I Do if I Find Out I Have Termites?

What Should I Do if I Find Out I Have Termites?

Termites are one of the most destructive pests on the planet. A colony will eat away at the wood in your home with their scissor-like jaws 24 hours per day. The damage they do is typically to the structural wood of your home and can lead to issues with a number of important elements of your house. The costs to repair the damage caused by termites can quickly add up. The potential for damage and the costs of repairs make quick action on your part essential. If you find out there are termites in your home start the process of dealing with them immediately. They will not stop causing damage until you take steps to stop them. The first thing you need to do if you find out you have termites is to get a professional inspection. Once you have the results of the inspection the next step is to have your home treated for termites by a professional. After the termites are eradicated from your home the final step is to protect it from a re-infestation.

Get a professional inspection

A professional termite inspection will do a number of things to help you deal with termites. The inspector will be able to confirm your suspicions of an infestation and identify the areas where the termites are active. In addition, the inspector will be able to determine the severity of the infestation and potential areas of damage. As a part of the inspection the pest control professional will provide you with information about the infestation and recommendations for treatment.

Have your home treated for termites by a professional

A termite infestation is one that requires the intervention of a professional. Termites often infest areas that are out of site and out of easy reach. In order to stop termite damage you must completely eradicate the infestation. This is difficult to do and requires the expertise, training, and tools of a professional.

Protect your home from re-infestation

Once your home has been treated for termites the next step is to protect it from re-infestation. A re-infestation can happen if you do not address the conditions that led to the infestation in the first place. Subterranean termites require moisture to survive and are attracted to areas of moisture around homes. If you have any type of moisture issues around your house you need to address those to prevent termites in the future. Make sure that all of your downspouts are working properly and directing water away from your house. You can also talk to your pest control professional about their suggestions for further protecting your home.

A termite infestation is a serious issue that requires professional intervention. Protect your home from the damage termites can do by bringing in professional help as soon as you discover a problem. You can learn more about termites, treatment options, and prevention here.