Page 6 July 5, 2018 EL SEGUNDO HERALD
Silent Destroyers: Tips To Spot
Termites And Prevent Infestation
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(BPT) - There are many reasons that termites
have gained the nickname “silent destroyers.”
Five billion reasons, in fact.
Termites cause more than $5 billion in
property damage in the U.S. each year.
If left unchecked, they can silently chew
through the structural stability of a home,
eating away at wood, flooring
and even wallpaper. To make
matters worse, the damage they
leave behind is not typically
covered by most homeowners’
insurance policies.
Spring is prime time for termite
populations as they emerge
in search of new structures
to invade. Termite explorers,
referred to as swarmers, will look
for hospitable homes, and are
particularly attracted to structures
that may have sustained damage
from severe winter weather or
have dead or decaying wood on
the property.
Many people will see termite
swarmers in homes during the spring and
mistake them for flying ants; this can end
up being a costly mistake. Winged termites
have a straight waist, straight antennae and
their wings are equal in size. Flying ants, on
the other hand, have waists that are pinched
in the middle, bent antennae and two sets of
wings, with the top set being larger than the
lower. Termites are also most likely to swarm
in the spring, while flying ants may swarm
at various times of the year.
It is not always possible for an untrained eye
to spot evidence of termites, but homeowners
should keep a look-out for a few key signs that
can help them identify a termite infestation.
Mud tubes - Subterranean termites, the
most destructive termite species, build mud
tubes to provide moisture while they travel
between their colony and food source. Mud
tubes are most often found near the home’s
foundation.
Wood damage - Termites tend to eat wood
from the inside out, so wood that sounds
hollow when tapped often signifies a termite
infestation. Homeowners
should also look for blistering
pieces of wood.
Frass - Drywood termites
produce wood-colored
droppings as they eat through
infested wood.
It’s a good rule of thumb
to have your home inspected
for termites once every two
to three years, and every year
if you live in the south or in
warmer climates.
The good news is that
there are plenty of ways
homeowners can help protect
against termites, while in
turn, protecting their greatest
investment - their home. The National Pest
Management Association (NPMA) offers this
termite advice:
* Eliminate or reduce moisture in and
around the home, which termites need in
order to thrive.
* Repair leaking faucets, water pipes and
exterior AC units.
* Repair fascia, soffits and rotted roof
shingles.
* Replace weather stripping and loose mortar
around basement foundation and windows.
* Divert water away from the house through
properly functioning downspouts, gutters and
splash blocks.
* Monitor all exterior areas of wood,
including windows, doorframes and skirting
boards for any noticeable changes. Remove
dead trees and replace rotting wood.
* Maintain an 18-inch gap between soil or
mulch and any wood portions of your home.
* Consider scheduling a professional
inspection annually. Wood-boring insect
damage is not covered by homeowners’
insurance policies.
* Store firewood at least 20 feet away
from the house.
Termites cannot be controlled with do-ityourself
measures. If you suspect a termite
infestation, contact a licensed pest control
professional immediately to determine
the extent of the problem and receive a
recommendation of an appropriate course
of treatment. To find a local, qualified pest
professional, visit PestWorld.org.
Lynn O♥Neil Real Estate
(310) 261-0798
Assoc Broker 31 years/Manager
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