A termite does not look like much. They look small, only about 4 to 15 mm in length. The damage they cause though is so immense that they are able to drive down the prices of properties with their presence. Why? Because the termites’ only reason for being in a house is to eat the wood that is part of the house. And they do this without much fanfare, they go undetected until it becomes too late for the homeowners.
Do You Suspect An Infestation?
By the time they are discovered by the unsuspecting homeowners, the house’s timbers are already so severely damaged and leaving only a thin layer of the wall. It is estimated that termites cause around $5 Billion of damages each year. DIY’s do not work for termites. If you are a resident of Davidson, North Carolina, termite is a common house pest. So, if you suspect a termite infestation, you may need to call the pest experts.
Types Of Termites
The following types of termites are the most common threats in the United States:
- Formosan Termites - They are found in North Carolina and South Carolina, aside from many other states. They are said to be the most aggressive termite species of all. They chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper without being detected. They can be identified by their creamy white to brown color and are about ½ inch in length, translucent wings that are covered with hair.
- Subterranean Termites - While the Formosan termites are the most aggressive, the subterranean termites are by far the most destructive. They are capable of collapsing a house or building entirely with their sharp mandibles. They can bite off small fragments of wood, and over time they can destroy a house.
- Damp Wood Termites - These types of termites infest wood that has a high moisture content. They normally are not found in structures due to the low moisture content of wood there.
- Dry Wood Termites - Unlike the damp wood termites, the dry wood termites do not need much moisture for survival. They infest dry wood. And unlike the Formosan and subterranean, they do not require contact with the soil. They infest roof materials and wooden wall supports of a house.
- Conehead Termites - This type of termites are very aggressive and are known to cause damages to properties. They are like ants in a way because they forage on land instead of tunneling underneath the soil.
How To Check If You Have Termites
The first step to getting rid of termites is to check for their presence. Check exposed wood for hollow spots; if you find sand-like materials near the windows and doors; the presence of mud tubes near the foundation; wings that were shed by swarmer termites and found near windows and windowsills. If termites have found their way into your homes, there is nothing much you can do. Just call the pest experts in Davidson, NC: Lake Norman Home Services Company. Lake Norman Home Services has state-of-the-art equipment handled by highly skilled and well-trained professionals. They also use family friendly and pet-friendly methods, so you know you are in good hands.