What To Do If You're Worried About Termites In Houston, TX

Termites are perhaps one of the sneakiest pests around; we can't see them or hear them, and they go easily undetected for extended periods. When we think of termites, we think of wood. We all know they feed primarily on wood, but they can also eat through plaster, metal siding, and other strong materials that comprise the majority of structures, both residential and commercial.

Once they get inside, they go into a feeding frenzy. Termites eat through cabinets, floors, ceilings, wooden furniture, and any other structural materials they can gnaw their way through. Because termites stay out of sight, interior damage often goes undetected until the infestation has become a full-blown problem.

How Do I Know If I Have A Termite Problem?

There are a few telltale signs of a pest infestation that all homeowners should be aware of. Termite damage is similar to water damage in that it buckles the wood and swells the ceilings and floors. It also emits a sour scent like that of mildew or mold. You can sometimes spot cracks in the veneer and detect visible mazes in the walls and the furniture. There are also noticeable tunnels near the home's foundation that termites use to access food sources.

Are Termites Dangerous?

Even though they aren't known to transmit diseases, termites still pose a great threat to the well-being of you and your family. They invade and destroy homes from the inside out, causing extensive invisible damage that can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs. In fact, termites cause more property damage than any other home pest in the U.S., costing over five billion dollars in structural repairs every year.

Since termites don't crawl around where we can see them, they tunnel deep into the wood and weaken it from the inside. The damage compromises the strength and, consequently, the structure's safety, rendering the property completely unlivable without repairs.

What Can I Do To Prevent Termites?

There are a few ways you can try to make your property less attractive to termites. Through a combination of prevention practices and regular structural repair, you can considerably reduce the chances of a termite infestation.

• Since termites need food and moisture to survive, it's essential to reduce food sources and eliminate excess moisture around the house. Repair any leaky faucets or pipes, and make sure to service your HVAC unit regularly. Divert water from the house by maintaining functioning gutters and spouts.
• Inspect your foundation regularly for signs of damage and eliminate potential entry points. 
• Repair rotted roof shingles, soffits, and fascias. 
• Repair loose mortar and install weatherstripping around windows, doors, and the foundation of your home.
• Monitor the exterior of your house, paying particular attention to any wooded areas. Store your firewood at least twenty feet from your home and maintain about one and a half-foot gap between soil and any wood near your house.

Termites are among the most formidable and durable pests out there, and unfortunately, they're almost impossible to treat on your own. You can implement all of the prevention tips mentioned above and try all the treatments on the market, but the truth of the matter is that no amount of natural sprays or essential oils will get rid of them.

Partner With Texas Termite Terminators To Solve Your Termite Problems

The best thing you can do at the first sign of termite activity is to contact the professionals at Texas Termite Terminators. Our experts know the life cycle, stages, and habits of termites and have the experience to eliminate them from your home and keep them out for good.

We offer a variety of residential and commercial treatment options that we customize to fit your specific needs. Most homeowners' insurance doesn't cover termite damage, so don't wait until it's too late. Whether you're looking for termite prevention or elimination, we have solutions. Reach out to us today to learn more about our home and commercial termite control options.