Termites are silent destroyers because they can eat away at a home or business’s structure without the owner knowing for months and even years. This pest causes billions of dollars in damage each year. Although this is the case, many people don’t fully understand termites, which often leads to more damage and ineffective removal.
As an Opelika resident, don’t fall into believing the myths about termites. Instead, know the facts and what to do if you suspect a termite infestation has taken over your property.
Seven Things You Might Be Getting Wrong About Termites
Below are seven myths you might have heard and believe about termites. To keep your property protected against termites, your need to know the truth about them.
Myth #1: Termites serve no purpose; they exist to destroy.
Truth: Unlike mosquitoes, which serve no purpose other than being an essential part of the food chains, termites have a greater purpose. These destructive pests are essential decomposers in nature. They feed on decaying matter and return nutrients to the earth in the process. Without decomposers, new life would not be able to grow.
Myth #2: Termites are part of the ant family.
Truth: Termites are relatives to roaches rather than ants. However, flying reproductive members, known as swarmers, are often misidentified for flying ants, which can be a terrible mistake that leads to an untreated infestation.
Myth #3: If I have a lot of mulch or decaying wood, nearby termites will leave my home alone.
Truth: While rotting wood nearby might serve as a good indicator of termites on your property because it can be more accessible than the wood that makes up your home’s structure, it will not keep termites from infesting. Termite colonies can be extensive and will find the food sources available to them.
Myth #4: Termite infestations are easy to detect.
Truth: While there are some signs of termite infestations, such as seeing swarmers, dropped wings, or mud tubes, in this case, the exact opposite is true. Termite infestations are challenging to detect due to their secretive nature. This is the reason many infestations go unnoticed.
Myth #5: Termites can eat through concrete.
Truth: Because termites often enter homes through the foundation, many people believe they can eat their way through the concrete. However, they get in through tiny cracks and gaps in the foundation. Subterranean termites, which need to live in moist soil, use mud tubes to travel from their nest to the food source inside a home.
Myth #6: If a house has been treated for termites once, you never have to worry about termites again.
Truth: This belief is dangerous! Just because a home has experienced termites does not mean they cannot come back. If you have expert assistance, there is a good chance that you maintain a termite-free status. If an infestation is not eliminated correctly and your property still has damaged wood, they are likely to come and re-infest.
Myth #7: You can get rid of termites on your own.
Truth: Getting rid of a termite infestation is challenging and can be dangerous due to the damage this pest can cost. The safest and most efficient way to rid your Opelika, Alabama property of termites is to contact the professionals at Prewett Pest Control.
When it comes to termites, you don't have time to waste as the infestation will only magnify. At Prewett Pest Control, we have termite control services complete with a pest-free guarantee. Call us today to safeguard your home.