Termites are very problematic in the Yuma area and throughout the state of Arizona. They can cause significant damage to a home before a homeowner notices termite signs. At Hitman Pest of Yuma, we have seen the devastation that termites can cause if they go undetected and untreated.
Termite Inspections in Yuma
We can complete a thorough termite inspection for you to determine if these pests are silently damaging your property. If they are, we can complete an effective termite treatment that stops the pests in their tracks. We will search your entire property for signs of a termite infestation and create an effective treatment plan stop termites from chewing up your home and furniture.
What Are Termites?
Termites thrive in Arizona’s warm climate. While there are more than 2,000 unique species of termites worldwide that have unique characteristics, these small insects generally swarm and nest in a warm area with a food source. They eat wood-based material and decomposing plants. This includes everything from firewood and leaf litter to wood-based siding, flooring, fencing and more. While winged termites may be visible when they swarm and move to a new food source, termites generally remain hidden inside mud tubes, soil or even their food source.
Because of this, they are a silent destroyer. You may not know to learn how to get rid of termites until the damage is done.
Subterranean termites are the most prevalent and the most destructive type of termites that affect Yuma homes. These termites thrive in the soil, and they are known for building protective mud tubes to reach their food source. While you may not easily see these termites, you may spot their mud tubes.
Dampwood termites are also prevalent in this region. These insects are appropriately named because they feed on moist wood. They may be attracted to any type of moist wood or decaying vegetation on your property.
Drywood termites prefer to feast on dry wood. Because they do not establish nests in the soil in the same way that many other termite species do, they could nest anywhere in the home. This includes in or near the roof.
What Damage Do Termites Cause?
The unfortunate reality is that your home could be a buffet for thousands of termites or more right now. Termite damage is estimated to be approximately $5 billion annually throughout the country, and you understandably do not want your home to be a part of this statistic. Termites can sneak into your home undetected and feast on support beams, siding and more for months or longer without you catching on to their devastating actions. They generally feast on the inside of materials, so the outer surface of a wood fence post, beam or other food source may appear fine on the exterior. However, the shell of that material may be paper-thin because of termite destruction. When termites weaken areas like wood flooring and support beams, property damage may even become a safety concern.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
Are termites infesting and destroying your home right now? While termites may not leave any signs of their presence in some cases, you may be able to spot subtle signs if you look closely. For example, after the termites swarm, you may notice tiny wings on the exterior perimeter of your home or even on windowsills.
Depending on the type of termites that are on your property, you may spot mud tubes on the fence or on the exterior walls of the house. In some cases, wood material may be darker or blistered, or painted surfaces may appear uneven or bubbled.
If you gently tap on wood surfaces throughout the home, you could identify areas of concern that sound hollow. Some residents may even spot small wood shavings mixed with feces on the interior or exterior of their home. Even if you have not noticed any of these signs, you may be dealing with a hidden infestation.
Effective Prevention Strategies
You want to prevent termites as much as possible rather than learn how to get rid of termites after damage is done. The different types of termites that are prevalent in the area may be attracted to your property for different reasons. For example, dampwood termites may be enticed to start nesting in the home if you have a small plumbing leak. Drywood termites are satisfied with dry food sources.
To prevent termites, you should identify all areas that are conducive to termite infestations. For example, any dead leaf piles, firewood piles and other similar types of debris should be moved away from the base of the home and other structures. Soil around the home should not remain overly saturated for a long period of time. You also should regularly identify and seal gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior. After all, you do not need to make it easier for uninvited guests to nest in your home. Another excellent strategy is to get professional termite control treatment regularly.
Termites in Your Home?
Because termites can cause extensive damage to your home in a relatively short period of time, the time to look for termite signs is NOW.
Our team at Hitman Pest of Yuma can complete a detailed termite inspection. Through the inspection, you can learn about the presence of termites, prevention recommendations that are specific to your home and termite treatment recommendations. We also recommend that you schedule a termite inspection with us before you buy a new home. Call us today to schedule the termite inspection that your home needs.