Termites are one of the most destructive pests a homeowner can face, causing billions of dollars in property damage each year across the U.S. Here in southwest Missouri, the most common culprit is the Eastern Subterranean termite. These pests thrive in the Midwest’s humid climate and can silently eat away at your home’s structure before you even realize they’re there.
If you’re a homeowner in southwest Missouri, now is the perfect time to be on high alert for termite activity. As spring approaches, termites become more active, swarming in search of new locations to establish colonies. In this blog, we’ll cover how to identify signs of an infestation and steps you can take to prevent these wood-destroying insects from invading your home.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
Termites work behind the scenes, often going undetected until significant damage has occurred. Here are some key warning signs to watch for:
1. Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites build mud tubes—thin, brown tunnels about the width of a pencil—to protect themselves as they travel between their underground nests and food sources (your home’s wooden structures). These tubes are commonly found along foundation walls, inside crawl spaces, or near wooden structures touching the ground.
2. Hollow-Sounding Wood
If you tap on wooden beams, floors, or furniture and hear a hollow sound, termites may have already eaten through the inside, leaving just a thin outer shell intact. This can be a serious red flag of a long-term infestation.
3. Discarded Wings
During swarming season (typically spring), reproductive termites leave their colonies in search of new places to establish nests. After swarming, they shed their wings, often leaving behind small piles near windows, doors, or light fixtures.
4. Frass (Termite Droppings)
While subterranean termites use mud tunnels to stay hidden, drywood termites (less common in Missouri) leave behind wood-colored droppings called frass. If you notice tiny piles of what looks like sawdust near wooden areas, it could indicate termite activity.
5. Sagging or Warped Floors and Doors
As termites consume wood, they can cause floors to sag and doors or windows to become difficult to open due to structural damage or warping. This can sometimes be mistaken for humidity-related swelling, so it’s important to investigate further.
How to Prevent Termite Infestations
Taking preventative action is the best way to protect your home from costly termite damage. Here are some key steps:
1. Eliminate Moisture Issues
Termites are drawn to damp environments. Fix any leaky pipes, ensure proper drainage around your home, and use dehumidifiers in crawl spaces or basements to reduce moisture levels.
2. Keep Wood Away from Your Home’s Foundation
Avoid stacking firewood, lumber, or wooden mulch directly against your home, as these provide easy access for termites. Instead, store firewood at least 20 feet away and elevate it off the ground.
3. Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home’s foundation, windows, and doors for cracks or gaps, and seal them with caulk or other materials to prevent termites from gaining entry.
4. Schedule Regular Termite Inspections
Since termites can be difficult to detect without professional equipment, having an annual inspection by a licensed pest control expert can catch infestations before they cause major damage.
5. Consider Preventative Treatments
Many homeowners opt for liquid soil treatments around their property to create a protective barrier against termites. These treatments can help deter new colonies from forming near your home and with Assassin Pest Control, preventative treatments come with the same 5-year warranty.
What to Do If You Suspect a Termite Infestation
If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, it’s crucial to act quickly. Termites work 24/7, and the longer an infestation goes untreated, the more damage they can cause.
Call Assassin Pest Control for Expert Termite Solutions
At Assassin Pest Control, we specialize in termite inspections, treatments, and prevention plans to keep your home safe from these destructive pests. We know the specific termite threats in southwest Missouri and use industry-leading methods to eliminate infestations and prevent future damage.
Don’t wait until termites cause costly repairs—schedule your professional inspection today! Call Assassin Pest Control to protect your home with expert termite defense!
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