Identifying Termite Problems

Active Infestations

Termites swarm in the early spring and are sometimes confused with flying ants. During this time, extra vigilance will pay off. Here's what to look for:

• Soft wood in your home inside or outside.
• Wood structures that look blistered or darkened.
• Tubes made of mud on the inside or outside of your home, usually near the foundation.

Invitations

Identifying an active infestation is good, but preventing one is better. So as you keep an eye out for those tell-tale signs, be aware of conditions that are invitations for termites to invade. Since the most destructive termites, subterranean termites, need moist conditions, they can be discouraged by keeping excess water away from your home, here's some common examples:

• Damaged or mis-aligned gutters and downspouts should be fixed immediately
• Crawlspaces should be properly ventilated to control moisture
• Vents clogged with vegetation should be cleared right away
• Old tree stumps and roots near/under your home should be removed
• The wood portions of your home should not be in contact with the soil. An 18 inch gap is recomended