Warming temperatures mean another termite season is here. Throughout the tri-state, homeowners will inspect their homes for warning signs, then assure and reassure themselves that they’ve taken the necessary steps to deter an infestation. However, due to the prevalence of misinformation about termites and their behavior, you may think you’re in the clear without realizing these pests are in your walls. To better prepare you for termite season, we’re setting the record straight on termite control tips.
Homeowner Misconceptions
In a survey of more than 2,000 homeowners, 94% of respondents believe termites can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage, yet only 26% had ever had their home inspected for termites and only 16% reported having a current termite contract. Additionally, 43% of homeowners believe termites can be controlled using at-home, DIY termite treatments, while another 30% believe damage caused by termites would be covered by their homeowner’s insurance policy – both of which are incorrect.
Termite Behavior
Termite swarms are weather-driven events that typically occur on sunny, warm, calm days following a spring rain. During a swarm, winged termites leave their existing colony to find a mate and establish new colonies. While termite swarming can occur as early as February, due to seasonably cool to cold temperatures of the Northeast winters, termite swarming typically takes place April through June.
Learn more about termite lifecycle and behavior here.
Termite Control
Effective termite control is more than tips and pointers. It requires the sustained and determined efforts of a certified termite and pest control technician. However, homeowners can take the following simple steps to help make their home less inviting to these wood-destroying pests:
- Fix roof and plumbing leaks. The moisture from these allows termites to survive above ground.
- Clean and repair gutters. Gutters that do not drain properly can allow water to accumulate near the foundation.
- Eliminate wood-to-soil contact. Any wood that simultaneously touches the soil and the home can provide termites with direct access to the structure. This includes keeping firewood or other wood debris from being stacked against the side of the home.
- Keep mulch or soil from piling up directly against the home. Soil or mulch can hide termite activity and allow for easy access into the home.
- Schedule an annual inspection with a trained professional. Our Termite Monitoring and Baiting Program takes a proactive approach to identifying and treating early signs of termite activity.
These steps are helpful for deterring termites, but if an infestation occurs, only professional treatments can eradicate them. Here at Masters Pest Control, we use the Exterra Monitoring & Baiting Program, a straightforward and simple process that leverages our knowledge of termite behavior to effectively exterminate the colony. Our certified termite and pest control technicians will install stations in the ground and conduct periodic inspections for termite activity. When activity is observed, our technicians add bait to the station. Worker termites will gather bait to feed their colony, resulting in the gradual elimination of the colony.
Learn more about our termite treatments here.
Prompt treatment and regular inspections can save thousands of dollars in damage repair. Contact Masters Pest Control to learn more or to schedule an appointment. Reach us at 845-856-2024, Monday – Friday from 8 am to 4 pm, or email us anytime at info@masterspestcontrol.com.