Termites
When do termites swarm & when should I treat my Caseyville, IL home for them?
Termites are among the most destructive pests a homeowner may face, potentially causing hundreds or even thousands of dollars of damage before detection. According to Termite Infestations Probability Zones (TIP Zones), Illinois is located in TIP Zone #2, meaning that the likelihood of an infestation is moderate to heavy and the potential for damage is significant. If you own a home or business in Caseyville, Illinois, then it’s important that you know how to keep these insects at bay or eliminate an established colony.
When Do Termites Arrive?
Contrary to popular belief, termites are well-adapted to Illinois’s chilly winters and are able to survive through even the lowest temperatures. Subterranean termites, which are native to the state and are the most common types of termites that homeowners see, create mud tubes deep within the ground where they live and breed. This allows them to survive the coldest winter months.
The question, then, is not, “When do termites arrive,” but, “When do termites cause problems?” Termites prefer warmer weather, and they generally swarm on a warm day in the spring, often after a rainfall. The eastern subterranean termite swarms during the day from March to May, and the dark southeastern subterranean termite is active from March to June. The light southeastern subterranean termite, which is usually most active in the hottest months of the year, swarms from August to October.
When Should I Treat My Home?
Your home can be treated for termites at any time, and treatments last between six and 13 years. While there are plenty of do-it-yourself options, these are generally largely ineffective and rarely kill the queen. At Imel Pest Control, we use the revolutionary award-winning Sentricon System, which is highly effective, causes very minimal disruption to your home, lawn, and landscaping, and is safe for pets and children. No drilling or digging is required, making it a hassle-free way to get rid of termite colonies fast.
Contact Us Today
It’s important to treat for termites as soon as you notice evidence of an infestation, but it can be difficult to recognize the signs. At Imel Pest Control, we provide free termite inspections and consultations, letting you enjoy peace of mind that your home is protected throughout the year. Contact us today to schedule your visit or to learn more about our services.
Best tips for termite prevention at my Waterloo, IL property
Termites can wreak havoc on a property, making holes in wood and causing drywall to crumble. Although many residents of Waterloo, IL struggle with these pests, a termite infestation is not inevitable. Here are some proactive steps you can take to protect your property from termites.
1. Reduce contact between wood & soil
The only parts of your home that should be in contact with the soil are the concrete foundations. If you have crawlspaces under your home, line it with a vapor barrier to help reduce moisture in the subfloor and floor joists. Do not leave wood or bags of mulch piled against the side of your home. For termites, these are tasty treats that encourage them to move in on your property.
2. Repair the roof
Broken roof tiles allow moisture to build up in your roof, which attracts termites. They also create breaks in the tile barrier, allowing termites to enter your home. Inspect your roof regularly. If you notice any broken tiles, have them replaced right away.
3. Close windows & doors
In Waterloo, IL, termites usually swarm during the spring. During swarming season, termites can fly, even though they are earth-bound during the rest of the year. In spring, try to keep your windows and doors closed to prevent termites flying into your home.
4. Move wooden furniture away from walls
If you have a termite infestation in your walls, the annoying little critters will make straight for any sources of wood they can find. That includes wooden antiques and furniture. Keep these precious items away from the walls to limit termites’ access to them.
5. Regularly inspect your home
The first signs of a termite infestation usually appear on wooden skirting boards or wooden siding. Check these parts of your home regularly for signs of a pest problem, which include small holes in the wood. If you spot the telltale signs, it’s time to call in the exterminators.
6. Contact a pest control company
The best way to put a foolproof termite prevention strategy in place is to work with a pest control company. Exterminators are not only experts on termite removal, but also on termite prevention. They can let you know what termite control steps to put in place to prevent a termite infestation.
For help preventing or dealing with a termite infestation in your home in Waterloo, IL, call Imel Pest Control today.
Why does my Maryville, IL home have a termite infestation?
Are you at risk for a termite infestation?
Termites are one of a homeowner’s worst nightmares. They can cause extensive damage before they’re even detected, and getting rid of them can be a challenge for do-it-yourselfers. You probably already know that termites are drawn to the wood in your home. What you may not know, however, is that there are other factors that can lead to an infestation in Maryville, IL homes. Read on for details about termite infestations and how you can keep these little buggers out of your home!
Geography
Your geographical location alone may be enough to make you vulnerable to termites. According to the United States Forest Service’s map of Termite Infestation Probability (TIP) Zones, Illinois faces moderate to heavy termite infestation risk.
Crevices in Your Foundation, Roof or Walls
If you have cracks in your foundation or openings in your roof or walls, termites will be drawn in to seek out moisture and food. Every few months, inspect your home’s doors and windows and apply caulk as needed. If there is any damage to your shingles, eaves, or fascia boards, ensure that they are repaired as soon as possible. You don’t have to perform a complete renovation to deter termites; small fixes that ensure that your home is sealed up tight can go a long way in preventing an infestation.
Moisture/Standing Water
Subterranean termites, in particular, are drawn to moisture. If there is any standing water in or around your home’s foundation, you are automatically more vulnerable to an infestation. Leaky pipes not only lead to water damage and higher water bills, but they can also attract termites, so it’s important to address plumbing issues as they arise. You should also clean your gutters regularly to ensure proper drainage, and keep landscaping near your home’s foundation trimmed back to prevent humidity from building up.
Wood Around Your Home
It’s not just the wood that your home is constructed from that can draw termites; any wood or wood structures that are leaning against your home will also draw them, especially if the wood is untreated. Ensure that trellises, stacked firewood, or shrubs are far away from your home to avoid attracting termites to your home’s interior.
Once you have a termite infestation, getting rid of the colony can be a significant challenge. The experts at Imel Pest Control can help you identify a termite infestation, kill an existing colony, or prevent an infestation. Contact us today for a free termite inspection and consultation.
