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How to Get Rid of Termites: Identification, Treatment, and Prevention

How to Get Rid of Termites: Identification, Treatment, and Prevention

It’s time to tackle a topic that affects many of us in the Peach State: termites. These little critters can cause significant damage to your beloved home if left unchecked.

Our termite pros are ready to help protect your biggest investment with expert knowledge from decades of experience in the field. We’ll cover your most common termite questions so you can avoid pest infestations, major damage, and expensive repairs.

What Brings Termites in the House?

Picture a cozy home in Georgia surrounded by luscious trees and abundant vegetation. It’s beautiful, and it’s also the perfect environment for termites to thrive.

Termites are attracted to moisture and cellulose-based materials, making your home a delicious target. From leaky pipes to firewood stacked near the house, anything that provides moisture or acts as a food source can entice them.

What Do Termites in the House Look Like?

Georgia is home to several termite species within the drywood and subterranean types. The most common species are drywood termites, subterranean termites, and Formosan termites, the most destructive of all underground types.

They’re small, social insects often mistaken for ants. Winged termites, also known as swarmers, are the reproductive members of the colony. They have straight antennae, equal-sized wings, and a thick waist. 

Soldier termites, on the other hand, have enlarged heads and mandibles. Worker termites, which are the most common, are pale, soft-bodied, and around a quarter of an inch long. Look for discarded wings or mud tubes near your foundation, as these are signs of termite activity.

What Kills Termites in the House?

Let’s get to the important part: getting rid of those pesky termites. While numerous do-it-yourself methods are floating around the internet, we strongly recommend seeking professional termite control services for long-lasting results.

A trusted pest control company like Bug House has the expertise and tools to eliminate termites effectively. We employ a variety of methods, such as liquid termite treatments, bait systems, and fumigation, tailored to your specific situation. Remember, prevention is key, but professional intervention ensures peace of mind.

How Do I Get Rid of Termites?

So, you’ve noticed signs of termites, and you’re ready to take action. Here are a few steps you can take in conjunction with professional help:

Schedule a Termite Inspection

Call Bug House to schedule a thorough termite inspection. Our experts will assess the extent of the infestation and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.

Address Moisture Issues

Fix any leaks, ensure proper ventilation, and redirect water away from your home’s foundation. Termites thrive in damp environments, so drying up moisture sources is crucial.

Remove Wood-to-Soil Contact

Termites love to feast on wood. Keep firewood, lumber, and other wooden materials elevated and away from direct contact with the soil.

Clear Debris and Vegetation

Regularly maintain your yard by removing dead wood, tree stumps, and debris that could attract termites closer to your home.

Stay Vigilant

Even after professional treatment, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Regular termite inspections and ongoing prevention measures will ensure your home remains termite-free in the long run.

Don’t let termites turn your dream home into a nightmare! Understanding what attracts termites, identifying their presence, and taking proactive measures can protect your property from these wood-munching invaders.

​​What Are Some DIY Methods For Getting Rid of Termites?

While some do-it-yourself methods may be relatively inexpensive, they are only small-scale and short-term fixes. Professional assistance is necessary to thoroughly and permanently eliminate termites in your home.

One DIY option is using cardboard traps. Termites are attracted to the cellulose in the cardboard. You can wet a few pieces of cardboard and stack them together in an area where you suspect termite activity.

Once the termites start munching on the cardboard, carefully remove it and destroy it to eliminate the pests. However, this method is best for early detection and prevention rather than a complete eradication solution.

What Is The Cost of Professional Termite Control Services? 

Let’s talk about the cost of professional termite control services. While prices can vary depending on the severity of the infestation and the size of your home, investing in professional help is often the most reliable and efficient way to tackle termite issues.

A reputable pest control company like ours will provide a thorough inspection, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring to ensure long-term protection.

In fact, Bug House offers free inspections! We’ll come out to you for a free in-home inspection and we won’t leave until we can give you an honest evaluation and quote for the professional termite treatment option that’s right for you.

How Long Does It Take For Termites To Cause Significant Damage To a Home?

You might be wondering how long it takes for termites to cause significant harm to your beloved abode. It’s tricky to pinpoint an exact timeframe since it depends on various factors, such as termite species, colony size, and environmental conditions.

However, termites are persistent little critters. Given the right circumstances, they can cause major damage in just a few months.

Termite damage costs homeowners an estimated $5 billion annually, making it a leading cause of diminished home value. What makes it worse is that standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover termite treatment or damage repair

That’s why it’s crucial to be proactive. Our expert team is well-versed in the local Georgia termite scene and equipped with the knowledge and tools to eliminate these wood-munching intruders effectively.

Bug House Has Your Back

Remember, when it comes to termite control, it’s best to leave it to professionals. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

We proudly serve residential and commercial customers throughout Georgia in Augusta, Carrollton, Columbus, Dublin, Eastman, Forsyth, Lake Oconee, Macon, Madison, McDonough, Milledgeville, Monroe, Sandersville, Savannah, St. Simons, Warner Robins, and Watkinsville.