Termites often cause property damage long before anyone is aware of their existence. They are often called the “silent destroyers” since they hide from sight and cause destruction behind walls and under foundations. When termites are seen, or an infestation of them is suspected, it may be time for termite extermination in Moore OK.
About Termites
Termites are social insects that live in large colonies, usually underground where they are not easily noticed. Termites eat dead plant material and cellulose, which is found in wood, as well as animal dung and leaf litter. There are two kinds of termites, the subterranean termites which are the ones that do most of the damage, and the swarmer termites that are responsible for the reproduction of the colony.
Look for the Signs
Termites leave warning signs that can alert a homeowner to their presence. Wood that sounds hollow when it’s tapped on, or blistered paint and mud tubes in crawl spaces or exterior walls, may indicate that termites are residing in the area. If a temporary swarm of winged insects is found during the day in a specific location, this may be a swarm of termites that are trying to reproduce and expand the colony. Termites are more active in warmer climates, so they can be a year-round threat in parts of the country that remains warm at all times.
Ways to Prevent Termites
There are some simple and easy ways to discourage termites from seeking shelter in a home. Keeping downspouts and gutters free of debris, storing firewood at a location that is not next to a home, and eliminating moisture producing problems that are near a home, such as a leaky outdoor faucet, or standing water near a downspout, can all help to deter termites from moving in.
Termites can be difficult for a homeowner to eradicate on their own, so it’s best to call for professional Termite Extermination in Moore OK if a problem is suspected. While it’s true that termites provide a valuable service in the wild by breaking down rotting trees and eating debris, the damage they can cause to a home is not beneficial in any way. For more information regarding termites and their removal, please contact us to request a quote.