What to do When Termites Come Back

Industry experts estimate that termites cause about $5 billion in annual property damage among US homeowners. That’s more damage than is likely to be caused by a fire, flood, or tornado.

Plus, termites come back.

At least 4 million US homes are likely to experience a termite infestation each year. And once your home has been infested, it’s at a higher risk of seeing the termites return.

Even when you follow all the right steps for identifying and eliminating a termite infestation, the pests may still return. These steps can help you jump into action quickly and work toward defeating your termite problem for good!

Watch for Early Warning Signs of Termites

It’s particularly critical with termites to catch them early on. Luckily, termite warning signs are the same for a re-infestation as they were for the first occurrence.

Routinely checking for warning signs can help you eliminate a termite swarm before it becomes a full-blown re-infestation. Keep an eye out for these common signs that termites have come back:

Since you’ve had them before, you probably know the places around your property they are most likely to reappear (perhaps your home’s foundation or attic). Check these areas for the above signs every couple of weeks. By the time you notice any signs of their presence, termites are likely already calling your property home. But catching them early means better chances of elimination.

Call Your Pest Control Company as Soon as Termites Come Back

Regularly checking for signs of termites is vital to early identification and treatment. As soon as you notice one of the above signs, contact a pest expert. Pest professionals will inspect your home to determine how severe the re-infestation is and recommend the treatment solution that fits your situation.

Of course, routine checks become difficult when termites invade apartment complexes and other multi-occupant spaces. This doesn’t mean elimination is impossible. The key is simply to call as soon as you become aware of a problem.

After a professional has treated your property for termites, there are a couple of steps you can take to prevent termites from coming back again.

QUICK TIPS TO PREVENT A TERMITE RE-INFESTATION

1. Eliminate soil-to-wood contact around your home

Termites are attracted to moisture, which soil is likely to hold. Remove soil-to-wood contact around your property as much as possible. Additionally, be sure storm drains empty a few feet from your home’s foundation and resolve any standing water issues you have.

2. Turn off outdoor lights at night

Light also attracts termites. At least during spring (termites’ prime swarming season), try to keep outside lights off at night. If exterior lighting is a necessity, move lights to recessed areas away from doors and windows.

Hopefully these tips and precautions lessen the costly impact of termites to your home. No matter how diligent you are about preventing them though, termites may still return.

Give us a call when termites come back for a thorough inspection and treatment protocol by our knowledgable team.