Termite Indication in Homes
Subterranean termites are not always noticed immediately. The insects hide in mud tunnels or beneath wood structures. You may not notice a termite infestation until the pests damage the home. Termites most commonly invade homes from the soil closest to the foundation. Termites can cause an extensive amount of damage, which will cost you a lot of money. Have your home inspected regularly to ensure that termites have not invaded it before they ruin the wood structure. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mud Tubes
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Termites build mud tubes from the ground up to the home to access the wood. The small tubes provide shelter for the termites and usually are no larger than a pencil. These tubes run along the flooring, behind baseboards and over cracks on the home. When you notice a termite tube, break it open to determine if termites are present. While the tubes may be empty, termites may still exist in the home. Always contact an exterminator if you notice them.
Damage
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Wood damage can indicate a termite infestation. When examining the wood, you may notice dark areas, but wood damage can often show no visible signs from the outside. Tapping on the wood with your hand along the wood every few inches can help you locate termite damage. When you hear a hollow sound, termites may have already damaged the wood. Sometimes the wood may break open without much force. You may notice dried mud around small holes and along cracks on walls when termites invade the home as well.
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Swarming Termites
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Termites with wings may appear on the inside or outside of the home. Swarming termites are dark brown, have two pairs of wings and often are confused with flying ants. Winged termites have straight antennae, wings that are equal in size and a uniform waist. These termites are most attracted to light and will swarm around lights and windows inside the home. You may also see many termite wings in one area of the home, such as the windowsill.
Prevention
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Prevent termites from invading your home. Wood contacting the soil allows for an immediate invasion point for termites. Improper drainage can cause moisture to build along the base of the home's foundation, which provides moisture for termites. Leaving mulch or gravel against a home's foundation creates a buildup of moisture, too. Termites thrive in moist locations and may immediately begin invading the home. Remove scrap wood from the ground and do not keep a woodpile close to the home.
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References
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