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The Easiest Way To Combat A Termite Problem In Virginia Beach

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Termites give the saying “there’s strength in numbers” a whole new meaning. Although these pesky insects are super tiny, they pack a major league punch when munching through the valuable wooden structures on your property with their powerful saw-toothed jaws. It’s like having your own unwanted mini demolition crew tearing through your furniture, walls, and even the foundation of your home. 

And while they might not seem like a big threat because of their small size, termites can cause thousands of dollars in damage before you even realize they're there. These pests feed on cellulose, which is the main component of wood, and they can eat away at a structure for years before their existence is detected. With their ability to undermine the structural integrity of homes and buildings, it’s crucial to understand the behavior, habits, and life cycle of termites to prevent and control infestations. 

Over 2,000 species of termites are found in and around structures, but the most common types are subterranean, drywood, and dampwood. Subterranean termites reside in colonies underground and build mud tubes to reach their wood food sources. These types of termites are the most responsible for causing significant damage to structures. Next, you have drywood termites, and as their name suggests, you will typically find these insects in dry, decay-free wooden structures, such as furniture, attics, and timbers. Dampwood termites live in and feast on moist or rotting wood. They prefer humid environments around water-damaged wood and leaky pipes or plumbing.

Since each termite species requires a specific control method, it’s essential to identify the exact type and eliminate the infestation accurately. But don't worry. Even though these insects bring nothing but problems, Hawk Mosquito and Pest is here to rescue your structures from possible destruction. We provide the most innovative methods and termite treatments to eliminate these insidious insects quickly. And with the right preventative measures and control techniques, you can keep your home safe from different kinds of termites. 

Read on to learn more about these wood-obsessed critters and how professionals with pest control in Virginia Beach can make your property a termite-free environment.

You're Likely Never To See A Termite

Termites in Virginia Beach are elusive pests that are known for causing significant damage to homes and buildings without being detected. They live and work in a highly organized caste system where each member has a specific role. Their work is done quietly, efficiently, and hidden from plain sight as they feed on wood from the inside out, creating an intricate and vast tunneling system designed to keep their operations as covert as possible. In addition, termites are most active at night and during the early morning hours when homeowners are usually asleep and unaware of the situation happening right under their noses. 

They’re masters at concealing their activities and use their mud tubes to move from one location to another. Termites are smart enough to cover up any openings or cracks that might give them away. This means that the damage has likely been done by the time you see evidence of a termite infestation, and it may be too late to prevent further destruction. 

Many people will live their entire lives without ever seeing a termite in real-life, which can be both good and bad. But if you do experience the misfortune of dealing with a termite problem, all is not lost. Count on your local home pest management professionals like Hawk Mosquito and Pest to find solutions to eradicate an infestation quickly.

How To Identify And Remove Factors That Attract Termites

If you’re worried that termites may target your property and damage your possessions, there’s no need to panic before finding out all the factors that lure these insects to your home or business in the first place. Once you’re aware of these attractants, you can take the necessary measures to reduce your risk of a termite invasion

It’s not just wood that these insects find so appealing. Several species, specifically dampwood and subterranean termites, are attracted to areas with high humidity levels and excess moisture. That's why you're most likely to find these kinds of termites around leaks, air conditioning units, and clogged gutters. Landscaping features that provide them with a moist and shaded environment, such as wood chip mulch, stacks of lumber, firewood, and plants, also draw them. And if these elements are in close proximity to the foundation of a building, that’s how the infestation can expand.

And, of course, wood is the ultimate termite magnet. The more of this material a structure contains, the greater the chance of termites targeting it for their next extended visit. Wood not only provides a hearty meal for these insects, but it also acts as a shelter that shields them from potential predators and harsh weather conditions. And no wooden structure is safe from termites as they will infest siding, flooring, trim, beams, decks, walls, fences, furniture, and more, especially in cases where wood makes contact with soil. Some termites prefer decaying or rotting wood for easier digestion, like dead logs or tree stumps.

So, to keep your property termite-free, avoid letting your firewood or other wood materials touch the ground. Try to elevate them as much as possible and keep them a far distance away from the exterior of your structure. Also, eliminate any excess moisture by repairing leaky pipes, faucets, hoses, or sprinklers. Remove any decomposing wood from your property, and consider using termite-resistant materials, such as plastic, concrete, or metal.

For the best possible outcome, partner with reputable pest professionals with a solid background and a proven track record of success when clearing termite infestations. Give Hawk Mosquito and Pest a call so we can discuss your situation in more detail.

Four Simple Tips To Make Your Property Less Attractive To Termites

It’s not every day you need to make something less attractive. But when it comes to preventing a termite infestation, it’s the best directive to reduce your chances of experiencing such a dilemma. Check out the four simple tips below to help you make your surroundings as unattractive to these insects as possible: 

  1. Remove wood that is in direct contact with soil, such as siding, trim, or firewood.
  2. Get rid of any dead or decaying wood on your property.
  3. Address any leaks or sources of excess moisture.
  4. Keep logs and other cellulose-based materials, such as cardboard boxes, away from the foundation of your home or business.

Also, make sure to maintain proper ventilation to reduce the amount of moisture in the air by using a dehumidifier, if necessary. Try using more termite-proof materials around your property, like metal and concrete.

It’s also imperative to examine your structure’s foundation routinely and seal any small holes, gaps, cracks, or crevices that termites could use to gain entry. In fact, implementing a multi-faceted approach can greatly decrease the odds of termites invading your work or living spaces. This can include regular professional inspections, proper maintenance, and the use of chemical treatments, baiting systems, or physical barriers.

Regular termite inspections by a professional pest elimination company are clutch in preventing and controlling termite infestations. Experienced service technicians can help identify any potential issues early and take the necessary measures to prevent further damage. During an inspection, they will look for signs of termites in your home or business, such as mud tubes, swarmers, and damaged wood.

By following these directives, you may lessen the possibility of a termite infestation and guard your property against the harm that these pests may inflict. In addition, experts always recommend regular termite inspections performed by a qualified pest treatment business like Hawk Mosquito and Pest.

The Most Effective Termite Control For Your Property

There’re many termite control techniques you can use on your property. One method involves using chemical treatments, which require applying termiticides to the soil around the foundation of your structure. This forms an invisible barrier to keep termites from invading and damaging your property. Treatments like these can be applied as a preventative measure or as a way to eradicate an existing infestation.

Baiting systems work by placing bait stations containing a slow-acting toxin that termites feed on. The termites pass the substance onto other members of the colony, which results in destroying the entire population. Baiting systems are a more environmentally friendly alternative to chemical treatments.

You can use physical barriers, such as metal mesh or concrete, to prevent termites from accessing the wooden structures on your property. However, this tactic is the most effective when used in conjunction with any of the aforementioned control methods. Lastly, proper maintenance to fix issues that attract termites is vital.    

But the most effective termite control for your property starts with bringing qualified pest professionals on board with the training and skills to battle challenging infestations and win. Count on the team at Hawk Mosquito and Pest. We have you covered year-round with affordable and effective treatments that won’t break the bank while delivering advanced protection from destructive termites and other pests. Reach out to us today to request your free estimate.