Termite season 2020: What you need to know
Did you know termites are working 24/365 to consume and damage your house, deck, shed, or garage? Whether we’re talking about your home’s wood supports, flooring, doors, cabinets, or siding, they’re all on the termite menu.
Research from the National Pest Management Association places the annual bill for termite damage in the United States at more than $5 billion. And in many instances, those costs are not covered by insurance. Ouch.
Clark, your neighborly pest control, lawn care, and termite control expert, would like to make you aware of the resources that Clark Pest Control offers to protect their home from these often-invisible invaders.
In California, researchers estimate there are 17 different termite species. However, the species you need to be most concerned with as we head toward spring is the subterranean termite.
Subterranean termites are found wherever moist soil is present. They are the most destructive termite species. They're swarmers, or reproductive-stage termites, are most often seen in late winter or spring on warm days after it rains, and they can be confused with other flying insects.
What attracts subterranean termites to your home?
- Wood in contact with soil: Wood in direct contact with soil and the home’s foundation can provide an access point subterranean termites to get inside. Dead tree stumps, fallen trees or tree branches, or any rotting wood material can also serve as food for termites.
- Improper drainage/excess moisture: Subterranean termites are attracted to moisture; they need it to survive. Excess moisture from heavy rains and flooding, broken sprinkler heads and pipes, or clogged gutters can cause excess moisture to build up, making adjacent wood and insulation vulnerable to termites.
- Cracks in the foundation/siding: Any cracks in a foundation, or gaps in siding, can provide termites a means to get inside. Subterranean termites, the most frequently encountered termite in California, build mud tubes in cracks and use them to move indoors. Cracks around windows and doors also allow swarmer termites of all species to gain access.
- Firewood/woodpiles: Many homeowners keep firewood stacked against their homes for easy access. However, doing this can draw termites toward the home and provide a point of entry. Clark recommends keeping firewood and woodpiles at least 20 feet away from the home and, if possible, store wood raised at least five inches off the ground.
- Mulch: Mulch is frequently used around the home near the foundation to improve curb appeal. However, mulch can serve as a source of food for termites and it retains moisture, which can attract these destructive pests. Minimize the use of wood mulch, and keep it at least 15 inches from the foundation.
The first step to preventing termite problems is to get a free termite inspection of your home by a licensed and highly trained Clark Pest Control termite inspector, who will examine your home inside and out.
For maximum protection against termites, you also should ask about Clark Pest Control’s exclusive Termite Infestation Protection (T.I.P.) program, which covers your home from future infestations and damages from all species of termites.
A complete termite inspection must be performed to determine if your home qualifies. Then, for a small monthly fee, you can avoid costly out-of-pocket treatment and repair expenses. This will save you money and headaches that termites can cause. Won’t that give you peace of mind?
If you’re worried about termites, call or text California’s trusted, friendly termite control expert, Clark, at (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or send an email to clarkcares@clarkpest.com.
Until next time, the pest management professionals at Clark Pest Control thank you for letting us help keep unwanted termites out of your home.