Termites can be one of the most challenging pests to eliminate from your home. These tiny bugs will burrow down deep into the crevices of various wooden surfaces. Some species will also build their nest underground. Whether you have termites that live above ground or underground, it can be almost impossible to gauge how big their hidden colonies are, which is what makes termite control difficult for most people.
At Jhonny's Pest Control, we have been providing pest control in Santa Barbara for decades, and we understand the best way to eliminate all types of termites quickly. Here is an in-depth look at the best way to tackle a termite infestation.
Early Signs Of A Termite Infestation
With the exception of reproductive termites, most termites in Santa Barbara are completely blind. This means that it's highly unlikely that you will find them walking around freely in your home. Instead, they will likely stay in their nest or inside a wooden structure. However, you don't have to actually see a termite with your own eyes to know they are around. Some of the early signs of a termite infestation include:
- Windows in your home that are stuck or difficult to close
- Winged termites, called termite swarmers, fly around your property
- Small, white wings found on your window sill or near your door
- Peeling wallpaper or paint
- Wood that is brittle when touched
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Discoloration or dark blisters on your wooden surfaces
If you have subterranean termites on your property, you will likely find mud tubes around your home. These tubes are made by the workers and are a combination of chewed-up wood and mud. Subterranean termites require a lot of moisture in order to survive. They use these tubes as a way to travel to and from their food source without losing too much moisture from their bodies.
A Termite Infestation Can Cause Extensive Property Damage
When it comes to termite damage, there is good news and bad news. The good news is that it usually takes several months, and sometimes years, before you start to see significant damage to your home. The bad news is that termites can go undetected for months or years, which means that your home could be suffering damage right now without your knowledge.
The damage you notice from termites in the first few months is usually minimal and can be repaired easily. However, if the infestation has been on your property for an extended time, you could see extreme damage, such as a sagging ceiling, buckling floors, and weakened structural beams. This is why it's recommended that you have your home inspected for termites on an annual basis.
Removing Factors That Attract Termites
Termites like warm, moist environments that have plenty of deadwood. Some species prefer wood that is dry, and other species like wet, rotten wood. To deter all types of termites from your property, you should make sure that all wooden objects are removed from your yard. Get rid of any fallen tree limbs, old logs, and all tree stumps as soon as possible. It is also a good idea to install some kind of drainage pathway in your yard. By diverting the water away from your home, you will be less likely to see termites hanging around.
The Best Termite Control For Santa Barbara Properties
If you want to keep your home safe from termite damage, give the professionals at Jhonny's Pest Control a call today. We take the hassle of termite control in Santa Barbara. Our experienced technicians can locate and eliminate termites from your home and help ensure that they don't come back in the future.