Termites are destructive pests that can invade homes without being noticed for years. They target anything made of wood in your house and materials that contain cellulose. But you do not have to feel defeated once you discover they exist in your house. Pest control experts at saelapest.com know the right products and methods to use to eliminate these pests. Also, they can educate you about what to look for and how to prevent them. Here’s what you should know about termites in Nashville:
Termites Are a Problem in Nashville
Nashville’s warm, humid climate makes it a perfect place for termites to thrive, especially in the spring and summer when they become most active. The most common type here is the subterranean termite. These termites live underground in large colonies and build tunnels to reach food sources, which are often the wood inside your home.
Termites work quietly. You might not even know they are around until they have done some damage. This is the reason why you should stay aware, especially in Middle Tennessee where they are common.
They Do Not Just Eat Wood
Termites love wood, but they do not stop there. They will chew through anything made from cellulose. This includes paper, cardboard, and drywall. They can also travel through insulation, plastic, and soft concrete to reach food.
So, treated or newer framing does not guarantee that termites won’t attack the wood. These creatures can still find ways in and start causing damage from the inside out.
Swarmers Are the First Sign
One of the earliest signs of a termite problem is the presence of swarmers. These winged termites come out in spring to start new colonies. You might find discarded wings near window sills or on the floor after a swarm. Do not ignore them. The wings mean termites are there even if you do not see them.
They Build Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites need moisture to survive, so they build mud tubes to travel through when they come above ground. These tubes protect them from air and light and keep them moist while they move between their colony and their food source. You will usually find mud tubes along the foundation of your home, on basement walls, or around crawl spaces.
They Can Be Hard to Detect
Termites often work behind walls, under floors, and inside wood. You might only notice damaged wood when they are present. But they might have been there for a while when you discover their presence. Other subtle signs of termite issues include bubbling or peeling paint, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, sagging floors or doors that suddenly stick, and tiny holes in drywall.
Moisture Attracts Them
Termites love damp environments. Leaky pipes, poor drainage, or standing water around the foundation are attractive to termites. Poorly ventilated crawl spaces, basements, and attics can also hold moisture and make great hiding spots.
Keeping things dry can prevent a termite problem. Fix any plumbing issues and clean your gutters regularly to reduce your home’s moisture level. Also, make sure water drains away from your home.
DIY Is Not Enough
Termites are pests you do not want to take on by yourself. Store-bought sprays and traps might kill a few workers, but they will not get rid of the colony, which is the real problem. A colony can have thousands or even millions of termites in it.
Professional pest control companies in Nashville have tools and treatments that can reach the colony and provide long-term protection. They may use soil treatments, bait stations, or barrier systems around your home. They can also give advice on how to make your home less appealing to termites to prevent future infestations.
