Termites have a reputation for being some of the worst bugs around, and it’s well-deserved. Every year in the United States, these insects cause $5 billion property damage. Most insurance policies don’t cover termite damage, leaving homeowners to shoulder the costs. If you don’t want to be in this situation, you’ll need expert pest control in Sierra Vista.
Evidence of termite damage is usually not apparent early on, so it makes it hard to address problems right away. Due to this and widespread misinformation, lots of people make mistakes trying to manage these insects. Find out how to recognize signs of termites inside your house, and how to properly deal with them.
How Common Are Termites In Sierra Vista?
Active termites are pervasive in Sierra Vista and in the state of Arizona as a whole. The subterranean species is the most dominant. Their vast colonies contain three distinct castes. Workers are 1/4 of an inch long and creamy white or brown. Soldiers protect the colony with their powerful mandibles. Swarmers are around half an inch long, have wings, and are brown or black; they are responsible for reproducing and founding new colonies.
Homeowner's Guide To Identifying Termite Damage
Termites wreak so much havoc because they can stay under the radar for so long. Oftentimes, it can be years before homeowners notice the damage. Staying vigilant for signs of termites can help you identify the problem before it gets out of hand. Keep an eye out for any of the following:
- Swarmer sightings
- Discovering shed swarmer wings
- Seeing piles of frass (droppings) accumulating near holes in wood
- Mud tubes on the exterior of your home
- Hollow-sounding walls
- Chipping or bubbling paint
- Discolored drywall
- Loose tiles and squeaky floorboards
- Tight window frames and doors
Regular inspections by Mule Mountain Pest Control can help identify a termite infestation early on.
What To Do When You Find Termite Damage
Don’t run to a retail store to buy over-the-counter termite treatments when you observe the damage. Retail products may solve issues on the surface, but no further than that. Remember, these bugs travel deep into structures and soil. If you want to eliminate the colony, professional interventions are required.
For the best termite solutions, contact our team at Mule Mountain Pest Control. We are a family owned and operated business dedicated to providing effective and affordable pest control in Sierra Vista. Our treatments will wipe out the infestation and prevent new ones from developing. We do not require contracts and we guarantee your satisfaction. Reach out today for a termite control quote.
Three Things You Can Do To Avoid Future Termite Infestations
Prevention is crucial to avoiding future termite problems. You can do these three things to reduce the chances of a termite infestation:
- Replace water-damaged or decaying wood.
- Address moisture issues on your property.
- Seal cracks and crevices to keep swarmers out of your home.
Completing these tasks can help discourage termites, but it’s still possible that an infestation will occur. For the best protection, schedule yearly inspections with Mule Mountain Pest Control.