Termites are considered one of the most destructive pests. They can cause thousands of dollars of damages to homes if left unchecked. It is important to understand how to identify a termite infestation, the differences between termites and ants, and why it is important to hire a professional exterminator when treating termite infestations.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
Termite infestations can be difficult to detect because they often go unnoticed until major damage has been done. Some signs that you may have an infestation include seeing flying termites (swarmers), mud tubes running along your foundation, and wood that sounds hollow when tapped on. You may also notice wood or other materials with what appears to be a “blistered” appearance. This blistered look is caused by termites eating away at the material from the inside out.
Difference Between Termites and Ants
The easiest way to tell the difference between termites and ants is by looking at their wings and bodies. Ants have an obvious waist that separates their thorax from abdomen, whereas termites lack this division in their body structure, creating a more cylindrical shape. Additionally, ant wings are different sizes while both sets of wings on a termite are equal in size and length. Finally, when swarming, both types of insects will shed their wings but ant wings break off evenly while those of a termite will remain attached at the base.
Hiring Professional Exterminator Services
It is always recommended that you hire a professional pest control company for proper identification and treatment of any suspected infestations in your home or business space. Pest control companies not only have access to more advanced equipment for pest control but also are experienced in identifying all stages of development for different species which makes them better equipped for treatment plans tailored specifically for your situation. Professionals will use specialized tools such as moisture meters and infrared cameras to locate hidden infestations so that they can treat all affected areas completely without missing any spots or leaving behind any active colonies that could continue causing damage down the road.
Termite infestations can go unnoticed until significant damage has been done, making it essential to know how to identify them early on so you can avoid costly repairs later on down the line. By having an understanding of what signs to look out for as well as being able to differentiate between ants and termites, homeowners can keep an eye out for potential problems before they become too serious. However, if you suspect an infestation in your home or business space make sure you hire a professional exterminator who can assess your situation correctly and make sure no further damage is done by treating all affected areas effectively with specialized equipment not available elsewhere!
