Here in Greensboro, there are a number of invasive pests that property owners need to know about. Of all the pests that might invade your property, none are as destructive as termites. That’s because termites feed on the organic substances that make up wood. That means if they get into your property, they can cause all sorts of damage to the structural wood and other wooden objects inside of it. What’s worse, many people don’t know their property is infested with termites until it is too late. Therefore, you need to know the early signs of a termite infestation. That way you can act quickly to eliminate them and minimize the damage to your Greensboro property.
Termite Basics
Termites are small ant-like pests that are typically pale yellow, brown, or black in color. Depending on the species, they either build their nests in the soil or within the wood that they are eating. Termite colonies consist of three separate castes. These are the workers, the soldiers, and the reproductives. Each caste has its own duty within the colony. Workers are responsible for gathering food for the colony. Soldiers protect the colony from threats. Reproductives, which have wings, are tasked with setting out to create new colonies in a process that is known as a termite swarm.
Unless it is during a termite swarm, you are not likely to ever spot an actual termite in your home. Termites tend to remain in their nests or in the wood they are eating. Many people don’t know termites have infested their property until they have already caused extensive damage to the wood inside of it. They can damage and destroy structural wood, flooring, siding, wood furniture, and antiques.
Signs Of A Termite Infestation In Your Greensboro Home
Given that seeing termites around your property is unlikely, it is important to be able to spot other signs that could indicate a termite infestation. When you are aware of it, you can act quickly in addressing the problem, minimizing the damage done to your Greensboro property. Some signs of a termite infestation include:
- Tight-fitting windows and doors.
- Soft-clicking noises coming from the walls.
- Excessively squeaky floors.
- The appearance of frass around your property.
- The appearance of mud tubes in the soil around your property.
Termite Prevention Techniques
If you don’t notice any signs of a termite infestation around your property, there are some steps you should take to better protect your property from future infestations. These include addressing moisture issues and limiting possible entry points. To keep termites out of your property, you should:
- Partner with a professional pest control company for ongoing support.
- Remove or replace any moisture-damaged or rotting wood.
- Use dehumidifiers to address moisture issues around your property.
- Fix any leaky pipes or fixtures.
- Keep gutters free of debris to prevent flooding.
- Fill in any cracks in your property’s foundation.
- Create a gravel or cement barrier between the soil and any wooden structures around your home such as deck posts and siding.
- Keep woodpiles away from the exterior of your property.
Effective Termite Control You Can Count On
If you do see signs of a termite infestation on your Greensboro property, contact the pros here at Go-Forth Home Services right away. After all, the longer you wait, the more damage the termites can cause. Even if you don’t notice any signs, we also offer ongoing pest control services to protect your property from any would-be future infestations. That way you never have to worry about your property being eaten from the inside out without your knowledge. Don’t delay. Give us a call now.