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Health & Fitness

Termite Protection

What homeowners need to know about termite protection form Vision Pest Management.

Have you ever heard the term “its termite season again?"

This phrase was coined by pest control companies because termite activity is at its peak from early spring into late summer. During this time pest control companies are overwhelmed with phone calls from alarmed homeowners seeing swarms of small flying insects coming out of their walls or covering the outside of their homes. What they are seeing is likely a Termite Swarm. Termite colonies normally swarm every year, usually more than once, in order to multiply and start new colonies.

When homeowners experience a termite swarm it is a good indication that there is an infestation in or near their home. Other indicators of a termite infestation may include: finding small dirt debris coming out of walls or wooden trim, finding a pile of insect wings on the ground or in a window seal, and wood showing signs of blistering. Most termite infestations go undetected by homeowners until a significant amount of damage occurs. Termites stay hidden behind interior walls, behind brick veneer and siding, within cement block walls and under flooring.

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Four Common Termite Myths

MYTH – Homeowners insurance will cover me if I get termites.

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FACT – Homeowners insurance does not cover termite damage or the prevention of infestation.

MYTH – My house is only a couple of years old and is not likely to get termites.

FACT – Termites don’t care about the age of your home. Any structure is vulnerable to a termite infestation.

MYTH – Brick homes are less likely to be prone to termite infestation compared to a house with siding.

FACT – Even though your home has a brick exterior it likely has wood supports, framing and/or flooring. Brick and stucco homes present a different challenge as compared to homes with siding: The presence of brick or stucco allows termites to secretly enter behind the veneer making it difficult for visible inspection.

MYTH – Homeowners can control termite infestations with pesticides they buy from home improvement stores.

FACT – The products sold at home improvement stores are not intended to provide any long-term protection against termites; in fact, some product labels suggest you contact a Pest Management Professional if termites are identified.

Your home is one of your biggest investments and it may be in danger. According to the National Pest Management Association, termites cause $5 billion in property damage each year. Don’t take termites for granted. It is recommended that homeowners get their homes inspected for termites at least once a year and also have some type of termite protection plan in place.

I hope this information will help homeowners understand the importance of being proactive when it comes to Termite Prevention. If you would like more information on this topic or other pest management practices please visit my website.

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