How can a Newport Termite Control Company Help You?
Dampwood termites are another species of the pest that are mostly seen in western Oregon, so homeowners in Newport may come across them. Dampwood termites do not burrow underground in the same way as subterranean termites, and they do not require soil to infest a structure. Dampwood termites will come from outside, not from underneath, however, they are still very difficult to detect as all termites are nocturnal and do most of their destruction when homeowners are asleep.
Although there are differences between subterranean and dampwood termites, they do have similarities. One of the most alarming is that they will not only chew through wood, but will also feast on paper, cloth, carpets, and other materials containing cellulose.
Signs of Termites
Homeowners will typically spot signs of termites before they actually see one of the pests. Termites are very good at hiding, as they need to retain moisture so they do not dry out. The most common signs of termites infestations are as follows:
- Wood that sounds hollow: Termites eat wood from the inside out, so wooden parts of a home may not show signs of damage. Tapping or knocking on these areas and listening for hollow sounds may indicate that termites have eaten the wood inside.
- Wood that is easily destroyed: If there are parts of your home that are crumbling, such as baseboards, windowsills, and door jams, it is a sign that a termite infestation is well underway. When you suspect that you have termites, prod or poke areas you think may be damaged with a screwdriver to reveal termites, or the damage they have done, inside.
- Sand on wood: Termites leave sand-like pellets behind them wherever they go. Many people think this is sawdust that is a result of the termites chewing through the wood. In fact, it is fecal matter.
- Windows and doors that do not open easily: Termites use their fecal matter to create mud that traps moisture and heat. The mud causes wood to swell, which can affect doors and windows and make them much more difficult to open.
- Cracks in walls: Cracks can form in walls for many different reasons, including structural problems and the ground shifting. However, when termites eat the wood within the walls, it can also cause cracks to form. Homeowners that notice this sign of termites should watch for others, as well.
- Shed wings: Subterranean termites will swarm during the day when it is time for them to form a new colony. Termites are also attracted to light, just as other insects are, and so spotting a pile of shed wings by a porch light or another source of light is a sure sign that termites have chosen your home as theirs to create their colony.
When you spot any of these signs of termites in or around your home, it is essential that you call a Newport termite control company as soon as possible. Many homeowners think they can deal with the problem on their own, but termite control requires much more than just putting out bait and traps. Different types of termites require different treatments, and a professional company will know the most effective solutions to use, and how to apply them safely.
