Of all the different creatures that call Waldorf home, termites are arguably the worst of them all. Not only can they cause extensive and expensive damage, but they're also exceedingly sneaky pests and difficult to catch in their earliest stages.
If you're looking to get rid of termites in Waldorf but are not sure where to begin, we wrote this guide just for you. Here, we discuss the unsubtle signs of termite damage and explain the problems they can cause on your property.
Do you not need immediate termite control in Waldorf? We also provide effective prevention tips. If you're currently struggling with an infestation, however, we explain how Mike's Pest and Termite Control can help you get solutions fast.
Let's start with the most important thing you should know.
Unsubtle Signs Of Termite Damage
Many termites are referred to as 'silent destroyers' due to the quiet way they infest your home. Most infestations start without you even realizing something's wrong, allowing thousands of colony members to run rampant through your home. A mature termite colony can host up to 60,000 members, and you may not notice their presence until the infestation has progressed.
Thankfully, termites aren't completely impossible to spot. Keep your eyes peeled for anything out of the ordinary, including:
- Termite wings around doors and windows. This may indicate the presence of swarmers, also known as reproductive alates.
- Clicking or tapping noises coming from the walls. Large infestations are more likely to make these sounds.
- Tight-fitting doors and windows. The more difficult it is to close your entry points, the more likely it is you have a termite infestation.
If you think you've identified one or more of these signs, be sure to contact Mike's Pest and Termite Control right away. Proper identification could save you hundreds of dollars and help you get peace of mind early in the treatment process.
The Extent Of Damage Termites Can Cause To Your Property
You already know that termites in Waldorf eat wood – but you probably don't realize how much they can consume. An active colony can consume up to five grams of wood per day, which is the equivalent of two feet of a 2x4 every ten months. Left alone to their own devices, termites can eat up to four pounds of wood per year.
What do these numbers mean for you? For starters, it highlights the importance of prevention. Termites allowed to run rampant through your home could cause expensive problems in your living space and outdoor buildings.
Termites can also reduce the value of your home, which may force you to reduce your asking price during a sale. This could leave you with the stress of remedying said termite problem (as well as an ever-growing hole in your pocket).
The best way to prevent these side effects from occurring is to focus on termite prevention first. Keep reading to learn some best practices for termite prevention in Waldorf, including steps you can start taking today.
Prevention Is Critical To Effective Termite Control
Termite control starts with termite prevention. If you follow the steps below and schedule regular termite inspections, you can keep unwanted wood-eating pests far away from your home.
Here are some tips for termite control in Waldorf:
- Get rid of any mulch near the side of your home. Soil-to-wood contact is one of the biggest proponents of local termite infestations.
- Seal up any cracks or gaps leading into the home. Use waterproof sealant and expanding foam to seal up any areas that let termites get inside.
- Control the amount of humidity present in the home. Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens may need dehumidifiers to get rid of excess moisture. You can also hang desiccant bags in smaller spaces to eliminate lingering moisture.
Remember: termite prevention tips are not the same as termite control since established infestations require professional treatments. If you think or know you need expert termite treatments, get in touch with the crew at Mike's Pest and Termite Control.
Professional Termite Control Is The Best Termite Control Solution
It can be difficult to control, prevent, or remove termites on your own. Thankfully, that's where Mike's Pest and Termite Control comes in. We're expert providers of all things termite control so you can get on with enjoying your life to the fullest.
Ready to get termite removal treatments for your Waldorf property? We invite you to reach out to Mike's Pest and Termite Control today. Our team of experts can address your property with speed, skill, and discretion.