Homeowners often have many questions when it comes to termite treatment and other pest control services. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions.
Why should you be concerned about termites?
Each year, termites cause damage worth billions of dollars to homes in the United States. They feed on wood but can also destroy paper, insulation, swimming pool liners, and filtration systems. While termites may infest buildings and homes at any time, they are especially important when selling or buying a because a termite inspection/infestation report is generally a condition of sale. The emotional and financial impact of having thousands of winged termites infesting your home can be devastating.
What is the reason that spring is so popular for finding infestations?
Spring is typically when termites are in large numbers, also known as “swarmers”, and begin to appear inside homes. Termites swarm in nature to spread and establish new colonies. Warmer temperatures and rain trigger the termites to fly out of the colony. After swarming, they fall to the ground and shed their wings. They then pair up with a mate to start new colonies. Termite swarmers that enter a home can damage wood but only last for about one day. You can remove termites with a vacuum or broom.
How can I tell if my house is infested with termites?
Almost always, winged termites found indoors indicate an infestation that needs treatment. Because they are attracted by light, termites are often found around doors and windows.
Termites in large numbers are found on woodpiles and tree stumps. Swarms of termites in your yard do not necessarily indicate that the house has been infested. However, swarmers that appear near the foundation, or from adjacent patios or porches could indicate an infestation.
Another sign of an infestation is the presence of earthen “mud”, tubes that extend over foundation walls, support posts, floor joists, and sill plates.
Sometimes, there won’t be any obvious signs of termites. Termites can hide behind insulation and floor coverings for years and go unnoticed. Exposure to termites can lead to undetected damage and feeding. The outer layer of wood is usually intact so it’s possible for this type of infestation to continue. A professional pest control specialist is often needed to confirm the existence of termites.
Do I have to treat the house?
For home infestations, it is best to avoid going the DIY route when it comes to termite treatment in Myrtle Beach. Special skills are required to rid a home of termites. To identify areas where termites might enter, you need to be familiar with building construction.
Termite treatment is best left to professionals. One exception is if the termites were found on a mailbox or another small wooden object that was not attached to the home. Do-it-yourself products sold at local stores and online will rarely eliminate an existing termite problem.
How do I choose the right termite company to work with?
These are difficult questions. Your state’s Department of Agriculture should license the company. The company should be a member of the state pest management association or the National Pest Management Association to show that they are a well-established firm with the technical and training information necessary to complete the job properly. Referrals are a great help as with any service. It is worth calling at least one company. Asking for estimates and inspections from several pest control specialists will confirm the existence of termites and help you compare their services.
Which termite treatment is the most effective?
There are two main types of termite treatment: liquids and baits. For many decades, liquid termiticides are available. They are designed to create a barrier in the soil that will prevent termites from infesting buildings. Baiting is another treatment option. Termite baits are made up of cellulose-based food and a slow-acting lethal substance. It doesn’t matter what approach you choose, it is important to hire an expert exterminator backed up by a pest control company.
Is the entire house in need of treatment or just where the termites are?
Thousands of termite colonies can be found underground, with many of them moving in different directions. Localized treatments for termites are often risky unless they need to be treated under warranty. Spot treatments are not usually warranted by most residential pest control Myrtle Beach companies, as termites may find other entry points to the building.
How long can the treatment last?
When used according to label instructions, liquid termiticides should be able to control termites for at most five years. The length of control for any home will depend on many factors including the type of termiticide used, the thoroughness of the application, and the area where the termiticide was applied. It is not due to the degradation of the termiticide. Rather, termites may continue to infest the structure year after treatment.
Are the chemicals harmful to my pets and family?
Termiticides undergo extensive testing to determine if they have any adverse health effects. Numerous studies are done by the manufacturer before a product is allowed to be used. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency independently evaluates the results. According to current information, registered termiticides pose little risk to pets and humans when used according to the label instructions. While termite treatments are safe and effective, there is a small health risk. Those with concerns should see their doctor. The newer liquid products are virtually odorless. If you are still apprehensive, it may be worth considering having your home treated with baits.
Call Zap Pest Control Inc. now if you need help in getting rid of termites from your home.
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Zap Pest Control Inc.
2507 Forestbrook Rd Suite G
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-654-1927
http://zappests.net/
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