Termites are a common pest in California and throughout most of the United States. Most homeowners know that termites are a threat but still have questions about these pests. You do not need to become a termite expert in order to own a home but it is a good idea to know the answers to some of the most common questions about termites.
What attracts termites to my home?
The main thing that attracts termites to your home is the wood that was used in the construction of your property. Wood contains an organic fiber called cellulose that termites can digest and live off of. The conditions in and around your home can also attract termites. For example, Subterranean termites need to stay in close contact with moisture-rich soil in order to survive. If the soil around your home has excess moisture – because of a water leak or poor drainage – it will be attractive to termites that require those conditions to survive. You cannot change the fact that your home was constructed using wood but you can stay on top of home maintenance tasks to prevent water issues that may attract termites.
Are termites a danger to my family?
Termites are not a direct danger to your family like others pests that can spread disease (roaches and rodents). They do pose an indirect threat because of the damage they can cause to your home. In severe cases, a termite infestation can impact the structural integrity of your home and make it unfit to live in.
Is termite damage expensive to repair?
Termite damage can be extremely expensive to repair. In fact, in the United States, the cost of termite damage repairs is higher than the combined costs of repairing damage caused by fires and natural disasters. The best way to minimize termite damage repair costs is to be proactive in your termite prevention efforts and to address an infestation as quickly as possible.
How do I figure out if I have a termite infestation?
There are a number of signs that can alert you to the fact that you have a termite infestation. If you notice damaged wood around your house, it is a potential sign that you have a termite infestation. Another sign of an infestation is the presence of mud tubes. Subterranean termites create mud tubes to help them travel safely from their colony to their food source. Piles of frass (termite excrement) can also be a sign of an infestation. Ultimately, the best way to determine for sure if you have a termite infestation is by bringing in a termite professional to perform an inspection.
What treatment option is most effective for termites?
There are several termite treatment options to choose from based on your unique situation. However, there is one type of termite treatment that stands out as the most effective treatment option – tent fumigation. The tent fumigation process is more involved than other options but it can get to areas of your home that are simply unreachable with other treatment options.
If you have additional questions about termites and termite treatment, check out the FAQ page available on the Nixtermite website.
