Termites

Termites, also known as white ants, are regarded as one of the most destructive pests within a home or business. Nicknamed the ‘silent destroyer’, they often go unnoticed because they don’t move out in the open. The most visible are their flying counterparts which look just like a flying ant, so people often mistake them for the later and dismiss the need to promptly inspect their homes and office. Having an infestation go unaddressed can lead to significant structural damage as termites eat 24 hours a day with an average size colony of 3 million termites.

Signs of Termites

Once termites establish a nest in the foundation of your home or business, an infestation can spread quickly and to other parts of the buildings structure. Most of the spaces they inhabit are in nooks and crevices that go unseen. Baseboards, window seals, interior walls and soffit areas are common ground for termites. Here are some likely places to look if you suspect termites.

Flooring- Termites can damage even laminate flooring and skirting boards. Flooring that has been infested may blister and sag in certain areas so it’s worthwhile to check underneath the flooring in case there is termite activity. Another sign is that your floor feels spongy and perhaps springs more than usual.

Interior walls- As termites consume cellulose found in timber within walls, visible cracks can be a sign that there is termite activity inside.

Ceiling- Wooden ceilings, beams, architraves and rafters in attics are just as much at risk of termite damage as wooden structures located near ground level. Look for cracks on ceilings and cornices.

Foundation- The type of foundation your property is built on affects how easily termites can invade your home. These days most homes are built on concrete which termites can not eat through. They can however, make their way through cracks and crevices to preferred food sources. Homes with crawl spaces appear to be at greater risk as they are typically still built upon wooden foundations.

Door and Window Frames- When termites eat tunnels through the wood of doorways and window frames they can become irregular or misshapen. This causes them to stick or become difficult to open.

Gardens- Decking and wooden fence posts in your garden are at great risk of termites. Long term damage could lead to collapse. Termite treated wood or metal posts can help to avoid this problem. Termites may also damage surrounding trees which can lead to branches falling off.

Roofing Tiles- Excess moisture in your home due to loose, broken or damp roof tiles can attract termites. Broken roof tiles are a great source of moisture, which will attract termites and allow them access further inside your home. Once inside, termites are able to maneuver through your property. It’s important to replace any damaged roofing tiles to avoid making your roof a haven for termites.

Hollowed Wood- Termites typically feed on wood underneath the surface, making them invisible. As they eat through the wood they create hollow galleries underneath the surface making the actual structure sound hollow you knock or tap it. Wooden doors, furniture and wooden structural supports on your property are all at risk and should be checked if you are concerned.

Exterior walls- If you notice mud looking tubes on your exterior walls or basement walls you should have your home inspected for termites. Subterranean termite species build mud tubes made from soil and termite droppings, also known as frass. These termites are attracted to moisture rich environments like mulch and wood chips.

Concerns for Termites

Termites generally swarm in the late summer months but are known to swarm as early as spring. They work from the ground up and generally go unnoticed until they spread to higher areas where they may become more exposed. By this point a colony can grow to millions before spreading. Because they grow at such rapid rates they also consume at rapid rates. Termites can destroy home and office foundations and structural framing before they are even noticed. If termites are known to be in or around your area, it always worthwhile to have someone come inspect for an infestation on your property.

Termite Control Solutions

We set out to identify the source of any termite infestation so that all termites inside and outside can be eliminated using our 5 step S.M.A.R.T. Process:

Through our S.M.A.R.T. process we determine all entry points, secure the termites from entering in the future and dispose of all dead pests and contaminated debris. Once we are confident that your home has been safely cleared and secured we customize a plan, tailored specifically to your needs, to prevent any future infestations.

Our process encompasses the biology, anatomy, psychology and social systems of all pests and wildlife; designed to help you understand the ‘why’ behind your infestation. We specialize in elimination,sanitation, prevention and routine maintenance of your home or office so you can be rest assured your home is protected from future infestations.