Got Termites? Get Tips to Protect Your Family and Property from This Voracious Pest.

Thank goodness the warmer weather is finally here!  We had a pretty mild winter, but it is still nice to get outside and enjoy the activities that come with the spring.  Unfortunately, it's also time to think about one of the not-so-nice effects of the warmer temperatures as well.  Termites!  While termites are active year-round, in the spring they emerge from underground in "swarms" to reproduce and form new colonies.  Given the milder than normal winter temperatures we experienced, termite colonies are expected to be at an all-time high this year.

Many homeowners think that just because they don't see termites in or around their home means they don't have them, but that just isn't the case.  Termite activity could still be happening below the surface and once inside your home they will chew 24 hours a day through concrete, wood, carpeting, floors and even wallpaper.  These destructive pests cause more than $5 billion in structural damage every year, most of which is not covered by homeowners insurance.  We at Arrow Exterminators are encouraging homeowners to learn more about termites in an effort to protect their families and property.

A termite swarm is usually the first time a homeowner becomes aware of a potential problem, however termites are most often present in a home well before they swarm.  Other evidence of a termite infestation includes mud tunneling in, over and under wood structures; the darkening or blistering of wood; and/or damaged wood becoming extremely thin.  If you suspect you have any of these signs, a pest professional should be contacted immediately.  Additionally, we recommend that homeowners have their property inspected annually by someone licensed and trained to spot termite activity and potential termite damage.

Below are steps you can take to help prevent a termite infestation this spring:

• Termites are attracted to moisture so eliminate any moisture around your foundation and divert water away from the house by using proper downspouts and gutters.
• Seal all cracks and holes around the exterior perimeter of your home including the areas where utilities and pipes enter.  Termites only need 1/32 of an inch to gain access.
• Don't stack firewood or other lumber near your home and inspect it carefully before bringing it inside.
• Keep tree branches, shrubs and ground covering well trimmed and away from the house.
• Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation.
• Have your home inspected annually by a licensed pest professional who specializes in termite control

Here's to a wonderful spring for all and we hope this information will help protect your family and home from termites year round!