There are over 2,600 species of termites around the world and up to 23 different species in California alone. While all these species of termites are very diverse, ranging in different sizes and colors, they all have one thing in common: They eat wood, and a lot of it. In nature, the termite is actually a very beneficial insect to the balance of the ecosystem, but this is your home, not nature.
Termites are naturally drawn to wood as it is a food source for them, as well as a source of shelter for some species. Because termites are naturally attracted to wood, it is important to check your home regularly for signs of termite infestation. If you find a sign of termite infestation while checking your house, contact us at Earthwise Pest Management and ask about our residential pest control services.
What to Look for When Inspecting Your Home for Termites
When inspecting your home for a sign of termite infestation, there are a couple of things that you should be looking for.
The first thing you can do is to check the exterior of the house for damage. You want to be looking at the exposed wood of your house closest to the ground for indications of infestation. You should be looking for the entry points of the termites, as well as dark and blistering wood. If you are suspicious of any spots on your house, try knocking on the wall and listening for a hollow sound. Other signs of termite infestation are tiny pellets of fecal matter and small exploratory tubes of dirt on the side of your house, a method of travel for some variations of termites.
If you find a sign of termites, it is likely an established colony that will need to be addressed by a residential pest control company. Give us a call at Earthwise Pest Control and schedule an inspection and assessment for termite control.
Precautionary Steps to Protect Your Home From Termites
What can you do about termites? The answer is quite simple: you can try to prevent them. After a termite colony is established, it is more than likely that a residential pest control company will be needed, a service that we at Earthwise would be happy to help you with.
Remove Any Organic Matter or Wood Piled up Against Your Home
In order to protect your home from a termite infestation, you first must make sure that there is no wood or organic matter stacked up against the side of your house. Make sure to do this, especially in areas where the wood siding of the house comes within six inches to a foot of the ground, as this is the area most prone to termite infestation.
Stucco or Re-side the Portion of Your House Closest to the Ground
Termites often infest houses where the siding meets the ground, so if you were to stucco the bottom foot to foot and a half of your siding, the termites would not have an easy way to access the structure of your house. Also, some wood, such as Douglas fir, is moderately resistant to termite infestation, making it a viable option for siding.
Insecticides
There are a few insecticides you can buy over the counter in the state of California, but it is widely believed that over-the-counter insecticides are inefficient. The most effective brands of insecticides are only available to professionals due to their strength. If you are in need of pesticides for termite control, please contact us at Earthwise Pest Management. We would be happy to help.
Baiting
Baiting is the act of placing edible cellulose pesticides in intervals around the house. Termite baiting is a form of termite control that is sold commercially. The slow-acting pesticides eventually kill the termites that have ingested it, reducing the risk of infestation.
How Long Does It Take for Termites to Do Significant Damage?
Understanding the destructive capability of termites is crucial for homeowners. The rate at which termites cause significant damage can vary, depending on several factors, including the size of the colony and the type of termite:
- Subterranean Termites: These are among the most destructive and can cause considerable damage within a few months due to their large colony sizes.
- Drywood Termites: Typically slower than subterranean termites, drywood termites may take a few years to cause significant damage because they live in smaller colonies.
Early detection through regular termite inspections is essential to prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. Preventing termites from establishing themselves can save homeowners substantial amounts of money and stress.
Our Professional Termite Control Services
Termites are destructive pests, causing enough damage annually to surpass the damage of hurricanes or fires combined. Inspect your home regularly for a sign of termite infestation, and if you find termites, give us a call.
Relying on professional pest control companies is the most effective way to quickly and thoroughly address a termite infestation, ensuring comprehensive treatment and prevention. At Earthwise Pest Management, we offer comprehensive termite control services designed to protect your property from the devastating effects of termites. Our services include:
- Termite Inspection Services: Our skilled pest control technicians conduct thorough inspections, providing detailed termite inspection reports that highlight any signs of termite activity or vulnerabilities in your home.
- Customized Termite Treatments: Based on the inspection findings, we design a treatment plan tailored to the specific type of termite, whether subterranean or drywood termites, and the extent of the infestation.
- Termite Prevention: We implement strategies to safeguard your home from future termite infestations, including pre-treatment of construction materials and barrier installations.
- Termite Repair Services: If damage is already present, our team can provide or recommend repair services to restore the integrity of your home.
Contact Us for Termite Control Services in Sacramento, CA, and Nearby Areas
For homeowners in Sacramento, CA, and surrounding areas looking for reliable termite control services, look no further than Earthwise Pest Management. Our team of experienced pest control professionals is ready to help you safeguard your home against termites. We offer solutions for detecting, eliminating, and preventing termites, ensuring your home remains safe and sound. Contact us today to schedule a termite inspection or to discuss termite treatment options tailored to your needs. Don’t wait until termite damage becomes extensive—proactive prevention is the key to protecting your investment.
Termites are tough, but we are tougher.