Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Termite Pest Control




Termite Control in the home






How do I know if I have termites?

The first step in prevention is to be on the alert for termites. Termites rarely emerge from soil, mud tubes, or food sources through which they are tunneling. Most people are not aware they have termites until they see a swarm or come across damage during construction. Some of the ways to discover if you have termites are listed below:
  • Look for mud tubes with smallcreamy-white insects
  • Examine, by probing, exposed wood for hollow spots (using a flathead screwdriver or similar tool)
  • Identify termite swarms (sometimes ant swarms are mistaken as termites)

    ANTTERMITE
    ant imagetermite image
  • antennae bent at ninety degree angle
  • antennae are straight; may droop
  • front wings longer than the hind wings
  • wings are roughly equal in length
The most common form of termite in most of the U.S. is the native subterranean termite (PDF) . Other, less common, types of termites include the smaller drywood termite and the invasive Formosan termite.

How can I prevent termite infestation?

Make the structure less attractive to termites

During construction, use a concrete foundation and leave a ventilation space between the soil and wood. Cover exposed wood surfaces with a sealant or metal barrier.

Maintain the termite prevention features

  • After construction, keep the soil around the foundation dry through proper grading and drainage (including maintenance of gutters and downspouts).
  • Reduce openings that offer termites access to the structure (filling cracks in cement foundations as well as around where utilities pass through the wall with cement, grout, or caulk).
  • Fix leaks immediately.
  • Keep vents free from blockage, including plants.
  • Ensure that trees and shrubs are not planted too close to the structure and do not allow them to grow against exposed wood surfaces.
  • Do not pile or store firewood or wood debris next to the house.
  • Inspect periodically to help ensure that termite colonies do not become established.

How do I handle a termite infestation?

  • Choose a pest control company carefully - Firms offering termite services must be licensed by your state. Ask to see the company’s license and, if you have any concerns, call your state pesticide regulatory agency . Please read our Citizen’s Guide to Pest Control & Safety (PDF) (53 pp, 4.18M, PDF) for more tips on how to choose a company that will do a good job.
  • Read the pesticide product label - The label tells you exactly how the product is to be used and provides information on potential risks. If the label does not include termiticide directions, then the product is not intended to treat termites and should not be applied. If you wish to see a copy of the product label, ask the company representative for a copy.
  • Be aware of the how soon you can return to the treated residence - The time required before the residence can be reoccupied will vary by product and will be indicated on product labels. Make sure the applicator has told you when you are allowed to reenter the building.

Source : http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/controlling/termite.html#know