What is Involved in Subterranean Termite Control in Los Angeles
The methods involved in Los Angeles termite control vary depending on the type of termite that’s involved. While dry wood termites nest in dry wood without any contact with soil, subterranean termites have to next in the ground as they require the moisture the soil provides. Dry wood termites can be controlled with fumigation. On the other hand, subterranean termites require soil treatments or baiting methods and cannot be controlled by fumigation.
The southern U.S. states have a widespread infestation of subterranean termites. The majority of structural damage is caused by subterranean termites. There is around $4.5 billion spent annually to control termites and repair the damage they cause.
Subterranean termites infiltrate homes through the wood that is in contact with soil. If they cannot find any wood they will create mud tubes from the soil to the wood. These allow termites access to the wood without exposure to the weather or any predators.
Termites nature is to stay hidden. They avoid any exposure to the outside environment. Los Angeles termite control is made difficult because of the termite’s habit to live inside of wood. The infested wood may appear normal on the outside, but the inside is mostly hollow from being ingested by termites.
There are few signs to spot termite activity. Mud tubes are the easiest to detect, as well as large accumulations of wings in one area. If you are suspicious about a certain piece of wood, take an object and tap the areas lightly. A hollow sound is a definite indicator of a termite infestation. A Los Angeles exterminator will need to be called in order to confirm this.
There are only two effective ways to control subterranean termites. They are using soil treatment and termite bait and each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Soil treatments use a large amount of chemicals and can be disruptive to the homeowner. However, termites can be eliminated very quickly and the treatment protects the home for several years.
By using a small amount of wood as bait, baiting systems lure termites to an area containing poison. The wood will be taken back to the colony by the termites and the poison will spread. This type of termite control uses very little poison. However, it can take several months to completely eliminate every termite, and the cost of monitoring the treatment can be more expensive.
The first step in termite control is to determine what type of termite you have. Then, identifying problem areas will be necessary. Los Angeles termite control professionals is the final step. If an infestation is identified, only professionals can properly control and eliminate termites.
