Did you know that termites are a pest that creates billions of dollars of property damage annually across the country? Termites are insects that resemble ants with six legs, antennae, and strong mouthparts that often reside in large social colonies. Termite colonies have members in different categories or castes, such as kings, queens, workers, and soldiers.
What are the most common types of termites in Knoxville that local homeowners will encounter? The most prevalent species found in this region are eastern subterranean termites (Reticulitermes flavipes). The term “subterranean” implies that the termite species constructs underground nests. Termites have a specialized digestive system that will process their primary food source—cellulose, which is in wood and some paper products.
Have you detected a possible termite infestation on your property? Termite damage may worsen quickly, meaning that homeowners should respond quickly by consulting with a local pest control expert regarding an inspection. Experienced providers of pest control in Knoxville, like Southeast Termite and Pest Control, know how to identify termites and understand how to treat subterranean termite infestations.
Unsubtle Signs Of Termite Damage
What are some indicators or evidence of termite damage? In many cases, certain audible clues will reveal termite activity. Examples include noticing increasingly “creaky” floors when walking through a home or walls that sound hollow when knocked on.
Visual interior damage might include walls that appear water-damaged or bowing ceilings. Windows and doors might become much more difficult to open or close.
How Termites Silently Destroy Property
Termites often initially penetrate wood structures and consume the inner areas; therefore, home occupants passing by an infested wooden frame might not notice damage to the exterior. Subterranean termites usually form tunnels or mud tubes that connect to their underground nests. These tubes allow them safe passage to areas of wood near the base of the home.
Termites will enter very tiny openings, such as cracks in slabs or joists. Termite damage typically occurs silently and slowly; yet, because of the massive size of colonies, substantial harm may already occur before detecting the problem.
Factors That Attract Termites To A Property
What types of property conditions will attract the different kinds of termites that invade homes in Knoxville? Some of the most common attractants include:
Direct contact between the base of the home and the ground soil, as this allows easy access for subterranean termites.
Any water-damaged wood structures on the property, as moisture attracts them.
Clogged gutters and downspouts and damp or humid crawlspaces.
Fallen trees in yard areas and firewood piles that are too close to the home.
While limiting the presence of certain property conditions is key to preventing termites, a local pest control professional like Southeast Termite and Pest Control should handle existing termite infestations.
The Stress-Free Way To Total Termite Protection For Your Property
Are you facing a termite-related problem? Property owners in Knoxville should act decisively when noticing termite activity. Southeast Termite and Pest Control is an experienced provider of effective termite control and prevention solutions that originated back in 1971. Our lengthy track record of success stems from operating in an efficient manner and always providing high-quality customer service.
Our team remains active in the pest control industry and is among the leaders of the East Tennessee Pest Control Association (ETPCA), which is the oldest organization of its kind in the state. Our technicians use many of the leading products in the market today, such as Termidor, a professional-grade termiticide that remains undetectable to termites.
Choosing the most-effective termite solutions is critical, as most home insurance policies provide no coverage for this type of property damage. Contact our office today regarding an onsite property inspection.
"Love this company! Their service is top notch, and they are courteous, professional, and very knowledgeable! Kevin did an outstanding job with our termite prevention treatment."
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