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Termite Control FAQ

Termites become a large problem quickly, damaging the structure of your home as the population grows. All Star Pest Management controls termite populations in Columbia and Catonsville, MD. Whether we identify subterranean, dry wood, or damp wood termites, we’ll help eliminate your problem. We’re here to answer your most frequently asked questions about termites. Contact us to learn more.

Can you control termites yourself?

No, we do not recommend trying to control termites yourself. Termites multiply quickly, wreaking havoc on the structure of your home as they go. They often live undetected until extensive damage occurs. When you try to control them yourself, you will only eliminate a few of them. Our professional team is trained to target termites specifically.

What is the best way to control termites?

We’ll determine the best way to control termites with an initial inspection. Our termite treatment depends on the type of termite infestation in your home. We may use liquid treatments in the soil that eliminate entire colonies when the termites come into contact with the structure. We can also set up termite baits or spray chemicals to alleviate the termite problem.

Can you get rid of termites permanently?

No one can eliminate termites from the environment, but we can help prevent them from infesting your home. We encourage regular termite inspections to help protect your home from termites.

How long after initial treatment will I see results?

The time of results will vary depending on the type of termite and our chosen pest management strategy. Overall, the results are rapid and will last an extended period of time.

What is a termite swarm, and what should I do if I experience one?

Termite swarms happen when a termite colony gets so large they begin to start new colonies. You may see swarmers at any point in the day, depending on the type of species. Drywood termites usually swarm at night, while subterranean termites swarm during the day. If you experience a swarm of termites, contact us as soon as possible to begin treatment to eliminate the issue.

What is the difference between a drywood termite and a subterranean termite?

Drywood termites don’t need moisture or ground contact because they can live their entire life in a small piece of furniture or timber. Subterranean termites need moisture and must have ground contact to live.

Do termites go away on their own?

No, termites will not go away on their own. They’re present throughout the year, even when they are undetected. Subterranean termites create mud tunnels, allowing them to thrive without detection. We provide termite treatments and inspections to help prevent termite issues throughout the year.

What are the most common signs of termites?

The most common signs of termites include:

  • Finding Termites – Winged termites point to a subterranean termite infestation. These are usually located near areas of light. You may see tiny, light-colored worker termites that move quickly when exposed to light. You may even see dead termites or wings.
  • Mud Tubes – Termites often live in mud tubes for protection. These tubes are usually found around baseboards, beneath flooring, or on fixtures.
  • Hollow Wood –Tap wood along your walls and windowsills to check for damaged, hollow wood. Blisters or dark areas in your wood flooring may indicate a subterranean termite infestation.
How much damage can termites really do?

Termites damage more homes than any natural disaster. They can cause an estimated $5 billion in property damages annually. They go undetected many times, leading to extensive damage.

How can I identify a termite?

Termites are tiny, soft-bodied insects that are less than an inch in length. Many people identify them as white ants, but a termite has straight antennae with distinct heads and bodies. Winged termites have pigmented bodies with two pairs of matching wings and broad waists, while subterranean termite swarmers shed their wings. Winged ants have two pairs of wings that differ in size with a pinched waist.

Should I worry about termites if I find a mud tunnel?

Yes, mud tunnels are one of the most common ways to tell you may have a subterranean termite infestation.

Do termites really eat wood?

Yes, termites love to eat wood. Termites help wood recycle to the soil as organic material that provides nutrients for plants. Termites digest the cellulose of wood with protozoa, microbes, and bacteria living inside their stomachs. They also eat other things containing cellulose, including boxes, drywall, wallpaper, and books.

Will termites be able to make their way through concrete onto my property?

Yes and no. While termites cannot slide through solid concrete, they can get through a 1/32nd of an inch-wide crack.

How long do termites live?

A queen termite can live for decades. An everyday worker termite lives for about one or two years.

How do termites get inside my property?

Termites can squeeze through tiny cracks and crevices. They can enter your home through foundation cracks or expansion joints. Most subterranean termite infestations live in the soil outside of structures. Construction work can also easily contribute to termites by offering ideal damp conditions for living. Termites also love to travel through the mulch and into a building.

There are termites in my neighborhood, how can I protect my house?

Termites most commonly spread underground. It’s best to protect your home with routine termite inspections. We’ll help protect your home from the termites in your neighborhood.

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