There is a general opinion that homes in our area of Illinois are not a target for termites. Actually, the opposite is true! Subterranean termites are very active during the spring and summer months.
How do they get in?
They do not require much room to squeeze inside your home. A round space as small as 1/32 of an inch can provide the opportunity for entry. These guys usually enter a building from the soil along the foundation or through cracks in a slab, holes around bricks or space around openings for plumbing or HVAC equipment. Entrance can also be made from decks or porches that are in direct contact with the ground.
Where do they come from?
Most infestations can be traced to a colony living nearby your home in the soil. They live underground, preferring a dark moist environment.
How will I know if my home is infested?
Look around. Discovering winged termites indoors almost always indicates an infestation. Look carefully – termites can be confused with ants. Termites can be differentiated by their straight antennae, a uniform midsection and wings of equal length. Ants have bent antennae, slender waists and forewings that are longer than the hind wings. They can be attracted to light and be seen around windows and doors. Look for termites emerging from the base of a foundation wall or adjoining porches and patios.
Mud tubes
Another sign of infestation is the mud tube. They can be seen along foundation walls, support beams, sill plates and floor joists. Typically, a mud tube is about the diameter of a pencil. The tubes are constructed for shelter as the termites travel between their colony and your home. If breaking open the tubes reveals small, creamy-white worker termites, then an active infestation exists.
How can I protect my home from invasion?
Termites pose a serious threat to what’s most likely your biggest investment. Reduce your chance of infestation through prevention – keep your foundation dry, keep scrap wood away from your home and consider a termite protection plan from the Pearson guy and his experienced professional technician team. If you already suspect a problem, call us and we will come out to do an inspection. If a problem is found, we can recommend a plan of action.
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