What Homeowners In Hopkinton, Massachusetts Need To Know About Termite Infestation
Termite Exterminator
Termites are one of the most common and destructive pests homeowners in Hopkinton, Massachusetts have to deal with. These small insects can cause extensive damage to wooden structures in no time and so it’s important to be aware of the signs of a termite infestation and how to prevent it. While termites typically swarm during the spring and summer months, they can be present year-round if conditions are favorable, so it’s important to know what to look for.
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The Basics of Termites
Before discussing the signs of termite infestation, it’s important to understand what termites are. Termites belong to the order Isoptera and are closely related to ants and cockroaches. They are small, wood-eating insects that can have a significant impact on wooden structures, such as homes and other buildings. Despite their small size, termites can be incredibly destructive. A single termite colony can contain up to two million individuals, all of whom are capable of producing up to 20 lbs of wood-based material every year.
Signs of Termite Infestation
When it comes to identifying a potential termite infestation, there are a few key indicators that homeowners in Hopkinton, Massachusetts should be aware of.
1. Swarming: One of the most obvious signs of a termite infestation is the presence of swarming insects. Termites typically swarm during the spring and summer months, usually on warm, sunny days. These winged termites, or ?swarmers,? are looking for a place to start a new colony. If you’ve seen these insects around your home, it’s likely that you have termites living there.
2. Mud Tubes: Another sign of a potential termite infestation is the presence of mud tubes. Termites construct mud tubes to transfer moisture when they’re not active. These tubes can look like trails of mud, and they are typically found near the foundation of the house. If you see these tubes, it’s likely the sign of a termite infestation.
3. Wood Damage: The most obvious sign of a termite infestation is damage to the wood in your home. This damage can be in the form of hollowed-out wood, or visible holes or cracks in the surface. Reduced strength, warping, and sagging walls are all signs of termite damage.
4. Discarded Wings: If you’ve seen what appears to be sheds wings around your home, it’s likely a sign of a termite infestation. Termites discard their wings after mating, and if you’ve seen piles of these wings, it’s a sure sign of termites.
5. Termite Droppings: If you’ve seen what looks like sawdust or wood shavings in or around your home, it could be the sign of a termite infestation. This debris is actually termite droppings, and it’s a sign that there are active termites in the area.
How to Prevent a Termite Infestation
Fortunately, there are steps homeowners can take to prevent a termite infestation. The first is to reduce excess moisture around the home. Termites need access to moisture to survive, so reducing the moisture can help keep them away. Homeowners should also inspect the home for any potential entry points, such as cracks or gaps, and seal them to prevent termites from entering. Finally, homeowners should look for any items, such as wood chips or mulch, that can serve as a food source for termites and remove them.
Conclusion
Termites are a common and destructive pest, and they can cause significant damage to homes if left unchecked. Homeowners in Hopkinton, Massachusetts should be aware of the signs of a termite infestation and take the necessary steps to prevent them from becoming a problem. F&W’s integrated pest management approach (IPM) provides the professional quality you need with the environmentally responsible quality of a DIY approach. Trust the expert exterminators at F&W to get rid of your mosquitoes this season. Get a free quote to start debugging your space today.
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