When termites come to mind, you might feel a shiver up your spine if you've dealt with them in the past. All in all, termites are not wanted pests. Although not dangerous in the traditional sense, such as poisonous snakes, spiders, tigers, or sharks, these little creatures can indeed be dangerous! They may not kill, but they can threaten the safety and overall wellness of many. Termites can be plentiful in Oklahoma, but just how dangerous are they in Tulsa?
The Hidden Dangers of Termite Infestations
In the United States, there are over 40 known species of termites. In general, termites can be more specifically categorized into three main types as identified by their habitats. These are damp wood termites, dry wood termites, and subterranean termites. Although termites may prefer slightly different environments, they often show many of the same behaviors.
One of these behaviors is eating. Termites love to eat cellulose which is predominantly found in plants and trees. Unfortunately, this also includes the wood used to build your home. Most termites can eat all day and night without stopping. Some of their favorite munchies include paper, cardboard, wood, carpet, and drywall.
How Can Homeowners Identify Termite Infestations?
Termite colonies can be tricky to identify because they are often hidden. Thankfully, there are some tell-tale signs, and infestations can quickly be prevented. If you see evidence of termites in your Tulsa home, contact a professional to help eliminate the problem. Experts can get rid of the termites on your property and help develop a plan to keep them from returning!
If you find any evidence of termites on your property, you may want to invest in a continuous treatment and monitoring system like Sentricon®. If your home's foundation has cracks or the wooden siding isn't tightly pieced together, termites can get in. Use caulk to seal these entrances. Second, make sure that you are working to reduce moisture at your property.
Termites love to exist in areas that have a high moisture count. It is vital to ensure that water doesn't gather in the soil around the property, so make sure gutters, drains, and pipes are being fixed and cleaned regularly. It might also be good to use a humidifier indoors and keep the indoor spaces well ventilated.
Next, be sure that you are removing wood. Old logs, rotting wood, or even fallen trees can add to termite interest in your space. Be sure that woodpiles aren't sitting around too long. Last, landscaping can be helpful. If shrubs are trimmed, and branches are out of the way, termites are less likely to nestle up to your home. Try to ensure that areas for gardening are at least six feet away from buildings.
At Emtec Pest Control, we are committed to safe and responsible pest control. We understand that your family’s safety is your number one priority, so we make it our priority, too.
If you have any other questions about any of these pests or pest control for your home or business, contact your Oklahoma pest control experts at Emtec Pest Control by calling us or by filling out our online contact form.