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insects termites

Why are stoops, a dirt filled porch, ideal for termite infestation?

Termites are small insects which are harmful for humans in many ways. These termites can eat the wooden furniture in homes and lead to damage. These termites eat clothes and make holes in them. These termites can bit on the skin of humans and lead to pain and infection. There are many types of termites and they are spreading in large numbers.

Spreading places

Termites are mainly spreading due to dirty places. Dirty places have all the required items for termites to grow. They get their food from dirt and grow in huge numbers with the passage of time. They start to spread and make their lines on walls and continue to spread to different places. You can see large bulks of termites which have many types of termites in them. Some types have wings and these fly when the shelter is removed. Some types are not having wings but these types move faster and find another shelter for safety.

Elimination of termites

It is important to use protective measures so that termites could be eliminated. Different types of sprays are available in the market which can be used for elimination of termites. Many types of sprays which can kill insects are also effective for killing termites. These sprays are quick in action and kill the termites on the spot. However these are not killing the whole colony and area of termites.

It is important to use such chemicals in sprays which can kill the termites slowly. When a slow killing spray is used for elimination of termites then the poison will be taken to the whole colony by some termites. As a result the entire colony will be infected with the poison and eliminated in a short time period. You can select such slow killing poisons to be used in sprays so that termites can be eliminated.

Termites can be eliminated by using sprays which will fill the soil. You can use these chemicals and mix them as per directions and make small canal around the walls. Then you can fill the canals with chemicals to make sure that termites could be resisted. When your home is covered with a protective layer of chemicals then termites will find it hard to get entry.

If any types of termites get entry in the home then you can use sprays on them to eliminate them. Slow killing chemicals are good for elimination of termites as these will spread the poison in the whole colony and kill it in a short time period.

Copyright © 2016  A6HH5DPZUU5WM CC-BY-SA-4.0

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insects termites

Top 10 termite Hotspots for 2016

Termites pose a significant threat to the value of your home by targeting its wooden infrastructure; if they aren’t detected and eliminated early, irreparable damage can be done. Prevention and early detection are key to protecting your home, so it’s critical for you to be at least one step ahead of this destructive insect. The following list presents the 10 highest profile targets and access points termites will be looking for around your home:

  1. Foundation cracks: Any opening along your foundation that gives termites an easy access route to the wood they seek should be addressed immediately
  2. Water damaged/rotten wood: Termites will take the path of least resistance if possible, and old soft wood is much easier to chew.
  3. Eaves and overhangs: There can be gaps where the wall meets the roof; weather might not come in because the roof covers the opening, but termites don’t need much space to get through.
  4. Wood that touches the ground: Wooden siding, beams or supports that make contact with the ground are likely to absorb moisture and provide a softer target for termite jaws.
  5. Crawlspaces: We might not like to go into them, but they can be a treasure trove of wood debris to attract termites.
  6. Landscaping: Untreated wood chips and mulch can make an attractive base of operations for termites as they plan their next attack on your home.
  7. Moisture from leaks, floods, or foundation issues: Not only does water damage make wood easier for termites to consume, but sources of water are also needed for their colony…excessive dampness can make your home attractive to them.
  8. Plumbing: Look out for entry points wherever you have pipes coming out of your exterior wall, such as garden hose spigots. Termites might be attracted looking for water, and discover a way inside.
  9. Windows: Even a tiny crack will allow termites access, and it isn’t your living room they’re after but the wooden framework inside your walls. Look for cracks around the outside of the window frame where it meets your siding..
  10. Woodpiles: Everyone loves a nice fireplace, but don’t stack wood against the side of your house, as it could both attract termites and conceal their point of entry into the house proper.

Use this list as a starting point for planning your defense against these invasive pests. The cost of protecting your home is much cheaper than the cost of repairing the damage termites can cause, or the loss of resale value on your family’s biggest investment.

Copyright © 2016 David Winkler-Groschen CC-BY-SA-4.0

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insects termites

What can you do about the Eastern Subterranean Termite?

The Eastern Subterranean termite is present throughout North Eastern states such as Pennsylvania. This insect often creates damage to the structural timbers in buildings. By the time this damage is noticeable however, it has been the result of several years of infestation. In most cases, noticing the results of termite infestation, it is already too late.

There are several ways to recognize termite damage. Noticing termite swarms, or just their wings alone is a sign that termites are around. These termites are often confused with winged ants. Most of these species are only a nuisance, and do not create any structural damage. To identify wood that has been attacked by termites, there are tell tale signs. Look for grooves and pathways in the wood. These pathways will appear to have dirt glad to them.

Another sign of termites is the presence of termite tubes. Termites create these earth colored tubes for several different reasons. The primary reason is to protect themselves while in the runway. These tubes can also serve as exits for the winged termites. Places to look for these tubes include cellar walls, door, and window trim.

In states like Pennsylvania, most infestations occur in the basement. Wooden posts, steps, doorways, and trim are especially susceptible. When the infestation is severe, the flooring and framework can be damaged. Termites prefer areas near the furnace, chimneys, and hot water tanks.

So, how do we deal with termites once we notice an infestation? One of the first steps is contact at least three or more pest control operators. This is done in order to receive the best estimate for service. It is common for each individual controller to deal with termites in a different way. Places such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can give advice on what operator to contact. The less suitable a place is for termites, the less likely an infestation will occur. There are several things you can do to prevent an infestation. One of the first things is to remove all of the wooden debris from the premise. Another step is to remove any damaged timber.

More steps include providing adequate water drainage in the basement. It is important that the water drain away from the building. Another step is to fill all visible cracks in the foundation.

Other methods also include the use of termite baits. These have become popular over the last several years. These are especially important where wells and springs occur.

Copyright © 2016  ARRM1JR8WDB49 CC-BY-SA-4.0