Termites mainly feed on wood cellulose. However, a lot of other circumstances and factors can result in a termite infestation in your house. Termites are hard to spot as they hide in dark spaces, in crevices and cracks, as well as behind walls. As they keep themselves hidden, they chew through your home’s wooden structures, resulting in expensive repairs and replacements. To prevent these consequences, invest in professional pest control in Denver. Keep reading to learn more about termites and the steps you can take to stop termites from causing home damage:
Causes of Termite Infestations
Termites are always looking for food, water, and shelter. They can go unnoticed for a long time, compromising the structural integrity of your home. A termite infestation can happen due to the following:
- Climate. Termite infestations can be more prevalent in certain areas than others because of climate. For instance, they are common in areas with year-round warm temperatures and wet monsoon season.
- Openings. Species of termites use concrete foundations as their nesting sites. What draws them under such areas is mainly darkness and moisture. Such spaces allow these pests to easily access the wood available in your house. Foundation cracks or gaps should be repaired and sealed right away.
- Leaky pipes. Termites are drawn to water, so leaky pipes are an ideal source of water for them. Repairing leaks, blocking drain spouts, and addressing ventilation problems can go a long way in preventing a termite infestation.
- Firewood. Stacking firewood directly against your house can encourage termites to transport the firewood to your house. Thus, firewood should be stacked away from your house and kept dry.
- Untreated wood. when tackling projects such as decks, pergolas, and patios, use only treated and sealed wood. Untreated wood makes it easy for termites to enter your house and take up residence there.
Where Termites Come From
Various kinds of termites come from various sources. For instance, subterranean termites belong to underground colonies searching for food. Dampwood and drywood termites may migrate from colonies they have built inside other wood. Such termites can move into your house from infested or untreated wood and through spots where your house touches the ground.
Will Termites Nest in Walls?
Termites can build nests and live within your home’s walls. They can burrow into walls and stay there without being detected for months. In some instances, termites will travel under the drywall surface from one place to another. As a result, you may spot blistering drywall paint. Also, pinholes can be found in the walls as termites come off of them.
Termite Elimination
Termites are hard to eliminate without assistance from professionals. If you think you have a termite issue after noticing warning signs, call a pest control company as soon as possible. This company has technicians who are knowledgeable about termite habits. They can thoroughly examine your property to determine the extent of the infestation and apply appropriate treatment. Also, they can offer preventative treatments that can address possible threats before they take place.
