Category: Termites

The Signs and Dangers of Termite Infestations and What You Can Do to Reduce the Risk of One

Posted on April 28, 2023 by - Termites

The Dangers of Termite Infestations and the Potential Damage to Buildings and Structures

Termites can cause significant damage to buildings and other wooden structures, and the extent of the damage can vary depending on the species, location and size of the infestation.

Termites feed on cellulose-based materials like wood, paper and cardboard. They can consume large amounts of these materials if left untreated. This can weaken the structural integrity of the building and potentially cause collapse. Termites can also damage furniture, books and other household items made of wood or cellulose-based materials.

Subterranean termites, the most common type of termite, typically feed on wood that is in contact with the ground, such as wooden support beams, flooring and furniture. They can also build mud tubes to access higher levels of the building, causing damage to walls and ceilings.

Formosan termites, a more aggressive and destructive species, can cause significant damage in a shorter time. They can nest in various environments, including trees, boats and high-rise buildings. They can also chew through foam insulation, plaster and other materials, causing further damage.

It is essential to have regular termite inspections and treatments to prevent infestations and minimize the potential damage caused by termites. Early detection and treatment can prevent significant damage and save homeowners from expensive repairs.

Signs of Termite Infestation: How to Identify if Your Home or Building is Infested with Termites

Termites are destructive pests that can cause significant damage to a home or building if left unchecked. It is important to be aware of the signs of a termite infestation so that you can take action and prevent further damage. Here are some signs to look out for:

Mud tubes:

These are pencil-thin tubes made of soil and termite saliva that termites use to travel from their colony to their food source. They can be found outside a building’s foundation, walls or even on furniture.

Wood damage:

Termites feed on wood, so if you notice any hollowed-out or damaged wood in your home or building, it could be a sign of an infestation.

Discarded wings:

When termites swarm, they shed their wings. Finding discarded wings near windows, doors, or other entry points could be a sign that termites have entered your home.

Frass:

This is termite excrement and can look like small, pellet-like droppings. If you find this near wooden structures, it could indicate a termite infestation.

Clicking sounds:

Some species of termites make clicking sounds when they detect danger or are disturbed. If you hear clicking sounds coming from your walls or ceiling, it could be a sign of termites.

Tight-fitting doors and windows:

Termites can cause wood to warp or swell, making doors and windows difficult to open or close.

Presence of swarmers:

These are winged termites that are part of a new colony’s reproductive swarm. If you see swarmers inside your home, it could indicate a mature termite colony nearby. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a professional pest control company to inspect your home and address any termite infestations as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can prevent significant damage and save you money in the long run.

DIY Measures to Reduce the Risk of Termite Infestations

While professional termite protection services are typically more effective, homeowners can take some DIY measures to reduce the risk of termite infestations. Here are a few:

Reduce moisture:

Termites are attracted to moisture, so reducing moisture in and around your home can help prevent infestations. Fix any leaks or plumbing problems, keep gutters clean and debris-free and ensure the ground around your home is properly graded to prevent water from pooling near the foundation. Repair any window boxes that have rotted out, as these are popular for termites.

Remove wood-to-soil contact:

Termites use soil as a pathway to enter wooden structures, so removing any wood-to-soil contact around your home is important. This includes things like firewood stacks, tree stumps and wooden debris.

Use termite-resistant building materials:

If you’re building a new home or replacing damaged wood, consider using termite-resistant materials like concrete, steel, or pressure-treated lumber. Install physical barriers: Physical barriers like stainless steel mesh could prevent termites from entering your home through small cracks or gaps.

Regularly inspect your home:

Regular inspections can help you detect any termite activity early before significant damage is done. Look for signs like mud tubes, discarded wings and wood damage.

Use termite repellents:

There are some natural termite repellents, like orange oil and neem oil, that can be applied to wooden structures to deter termites. However, these treatments are typically less effective than professional treatments and may need to be reapplied regularly.

Turn off your lights:

Especially during swarm season. Termites are attracted to the light. It’s important to keep in mind that while these DIY measures can reduce the risk of termite infestations, they may not be as effective as professional termite protection services. If you suspect a termite infestation in your home or building, it’s best to contact a professional pest control company to address the problem.

Now that you know the signs and dangers of a termites infestation and what you can do to reduce one, if you’re still having issues with termites – give The Bug Man a call.

Understanding Termite Protection Services and Why They’re Essential

Posted on April 28, 2023 by - Termites

Termite Protection Services: Essential for Preventing Costly Home Damage

Termite protection services are essential for preventing and eliminating termite infestations in homes and buildings. Termites can cause significant damage to the wooden structures of your home, and a professional termite protection service can help protect your investment, prevent costly repairs and provide peace of mind.

While professional termite protection services are the most effective, homeowners can also take some DIY measures to reduce the risk of infestations, such as reducing moisture, removing wood-to-soil contact, using termite-resistant building materials, installing physical barriers, regularly inspecting your home and using termite repellents.

In conclusion, protecting your home from termite damage is crucial. Whether you opt for professional termite protection services or DIY measures, it’s important to take action to prevent termite infestations and address any issues promptly to avoid significant damage to your home. Regular inspections and preventative measures can protect your home and give you peace of mind.

Understanding Termite Protection Services: Preventing and Eliminating Infestations

Termite protection services are designed to prevent or eliminate termite infestations in homes and buildings. These services typically involve a combination of preventive measures, such as termite barriers and regular inspections, and treatments for existing infestations.

The first step in a termite protection service is typically an inspection by a trained professional. The inspector will look for signs of termite activity and identify areas of the property that may be at risk for infestations, such as moisture-prone areas or areas with wood-to-soil contact. Next, the inspector will recommend a treatment plan to prevent or eliminate any termite activity based on the inspection results.

As you can tell, Termites are destructive little pests that can destroy your home or property. Don’t go without protection. Give The Bug Man a call.

Understanding Termites in Louisiana and the Damage They Can Cause

Posted on April 28, 2023 by - Termites

Types of Termites in Louisiana and How They Can Damage Homes and Structures

In Louisiana, the two largest termite species are the native subterranean termites and the Formosan subterranean termites. Native termites are common throughout the state, nest in soil and wood, and prefer softwoods. Formosan termites are more aggressive, destructive, and adaptable to various nesting environments, including high-rise buildings. They prefer hardwoods but will also attack softwoods. Therefore, homeowners in Louisiana should be vigilant in protecting their properties from Formosan termites due to their destructive nature.

While both types of termites look similar, there are some key differences in their appearance. Native termites are usually about 1/4 inch long and have a light brown or creamy white color. They have straight antennae and straight bodies, and their wings are about twice the length of their body. Formosan termites, on the other hand, are slightly larger, about 1/2 inch long, and have a yellowish-brown color. They have curved or bent antennae and their wings are longer than their bodies.

In terms of swarming, both native and Formosan termites typically swarm during the spring. However, there are some differences in their swarming patterns. Native termites usually swarm in February and March, while Formosan termites tend to swarm around Mother’s Day weekend in May.

During a termite swarm, the winged termites leave their colonies to mate and start new colonies. This is often when homeowners first notice a termite infestation, as they may see swarms of flying termites around their property or find discarded wings on windowsills or other surfaces.

It’s important to note that while native termites are more common in the United States, Formosan termites are more aggressive and can cause more damage to structures. If you suspect you have a termite infestation, it’s best to contact a professional pest control company to assess the situation and develop a treatment plan.

Understanding Termite Behavior and the Damage They Can Cause to Wooden Structures

Termites are social insects that live in large colonies. They feed on cellulose-based materials, such as wood, and can cause significant damage to buildings and other wooden structures. Termites have a highly organized social structure with specialized roles for each member, including workers, soldiers and reproductive individuals. Workers are responsible for gathering food, caring for the young and maintaining the nest. Soldiers defend the colony against predators. Reproductive individuals are responsible for creating new colonies.

Termites communicate with each other through pheromones, chemicals that transmit signals between individuals. They also use physical contact and vibrations to communicate. Termites can construct elaborate nests, including tunnels and chambers, that are designed to maintain a stable environment for the colony. Some termite species, such as subterranean termites, build mud tubes to travel through and protect themselves from predators.

Termites require a source of moisture to survive and are attracted to areas with high humidity. They are most active during the warmer months but can continue to feed and reproduce year-round in warm, humid environments. Infestations can be difficult to detect, as termites often feed on the inside of wood, leaving the outer layer intact. Therefore, regular inspections and preventative measures are necessary to protect wooden structures from termite damage.

If termites are bugging you, then it’s time to get rid of them. Give The Bug Man a call today.

The Importance of Termite Protection and How to Choose the Right Provider

Posted on April 28, 2023 by - Termites

The Importance of Termite Protection for Homes and Businesses

Termite protection is crucial for both homes and businesses as it helps prevent termite damage that can be costly. For businesses, a termite infestation can be particularly damaging as it can disrupt operations, damage inventory and harm the business’s reputation. Furthermore, a termite infestation can result in regulatory fines and even the company’s closure in some cases. For homeowners, a termite infestation can significantly decrease the property’s value, making it more challenging to sell in the future. Termite protection services can help businesses and homeowners by providing regular inspections, treatments and preventative measures to detect and prevent termite infestations. This investment in termite protection can save businesses and homeowners significant amounts of money, prevent disruptions to operations and protect the value of their properties.

The Importance of Understanding Termites and Investing in Termite Protection Services

Termites are small insects that can cause big problems. These pests can infest your home, feeding on wood and other cellulose materials and causing significant structural damage. If left untreated, termites can cause thousands of dollars in damage, making termite protection services an essential investment for homeowners and business owners.

Before we delve into termite protection services, it’s essential to understand termites’ behavior and habits. Termites are social insects living in colonies, usually in the ground or wood. They feed on cellulose materials like wood, paper and cardboard. In addition, termites are attracted to moisture, which is why they thrive in humid areas.

Tips for Choosing the Right Termite Protection Service Provider

When choosing a termite protection service provider, several factors must be considered to ensure that you receive effective and reliable services. Some of these factors include:

License and certification:

It’s important to choose a provider licensed and certified by the relevant authorities. This ensures they meet the required standards for providing termite protection services and have the necessary training and expertise. To see if a provider is licensed, contact your local Department of Agriculture and State Pest Control Associations.

Experience:

Look for a provider with years of experience in the industry. Experienced providers will likely encounter various types of termite infestations and have a proven track record of delivering effective services.

Treatment options:

Different providers may offer different treatment options, so it’s important to choose one that provides the type of treatment that best suits your needs. Consider the pros and cons of each treatment option and choose one that is effective, safe and affordable.

Customer reviews:

Check online reviews and ratings from previous customers to get an idea of the provider’s reputation and the quality of their services. Look for providers with positive reviews and a high customer satisfaction rate.

Warranty and Guarantee:

If your home qualifies, choose a provider that offers a warranty or guarantee for their services. This ensures that if the treatment is ineffective, they will promptly and effectively address the issue.

Choosing a licensed and experienced provider for termite protection services is important because termites can cause significant damage to your property if left untreated. An experienced provider has the necessary knowledge and expertise to detect and treat termite infestations effectively, preventing further damage to your property.

To find the right provider, consider asking for referrals from friends, family or your local real estate agent. You can also search online for local providers and compare their services, pricing and customer reviews. When contacting providers, ask about their experience, treatment options and warranty or guarantee. This will help you make an informed decision and choose a provider that meets your needs and budget.

If you’re looking for a provider that is licensed, professional and reliable, then give The Bug Man a call. We get termites before they get you.

What Should I Do If My Neighbor Has Termites?

Posted on April 1, 2022 by - Pest Control General, Termites

A sighting of several termite control trucks appearing at your neighbor’s house could be cause for concern. But just because termites have decided to knock on the door of your friend’s home doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to pack your bags. However, it could mean that you are more at risk, which warrants precautionary measures to be taken. Here’s what you need to know before you map out a plan of action.

Termites can spread in multiple ways

Subterranean termites, which are prevalent in the Greater Baton Rouge area, generally travel through flying or swarming during the reproductive season. While swarming season occurs in the Spring, a colony can also spread through mud tubes and through exterior wood, like firewood or furniture, any time of year. So if you were to borrow a wooden bench from your neighbor that was unknowingly infested with termites, then you could have inadvertently offered them a new dwelling place in your home.

Termites like to expand to similar structures

If you live in a community where many of the homes were built around the same time and with the same materials, your soil moisture level is probably also similar. Since subterranean termites travel through the soil looking for new cellulose-based food sources, close proximity could make your property an easy target. Once they zero in on a new structure, there’s nothing stopping them from easily entering into your foundation without your knowledge.

Termites often pop up during new construction

Whether your home is the new one on the block, or new houses are going up in close vicinity to you, termites are often identified as a result of new construction projects. Because the land used for a new-build could already have a number of active termites hidden in its soil that become disrupted when the process begins, they are left with no choice but to find a new place to feed. This often happens when developers take out old termite-infested trees and bury them under the new soil of a neighborhood.

Professionals are required to properly stop the spread of termites

Termites can tunnel and swarm the length of a football field, making a verified infestation next door too close for comfort. The best way to protect yourself? Take preventative measures with a professional termite control company as soon as (or before) you move in so that you won’t have to worry about what happens at your neighbor’s house in the future. However, if you didn’t have preventative measures in place and your neighbor spots termites, a professional termite control company is the only failsafe way to have your home properly inspected and to begin any necessary treatment. As the greater Baton Rouge area’s leader in termite protection, The Bug Man has the expertise and innovative means to deliver the most cutting-edge inspection and treatment solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our termite control services.

Your Top Louisiana Termite Questions Answered

Posted on March 11, 2022 by - Termites

While spring may signify flowers blooming, gorgeous weather and crawfish season in Louisiana, it also marks the start of termite swarming season. For creatures so small, termites sure do have quite the reputation… and for good reason. They can cause upwards of $5 billion in home damage each year. While the south may be known for its hospitality, no one welcomes termites with open arms. Here are answers to some of the most frequent questions we get regarding termites and how to keep them out.

What types of termites are there in the Greater Baton Rouge area?

The two major types of termites in the Greater Baton Rouge area are the Formosan “super termites” and Native termites, which both fall into the Subterranean category. As the name suggests, Subterranean termites are attracted to moisture in both wood and soil, and you can often find them swarming when a really hot day follows a rainy day. Natives generally swarm beginning late in February or early March and Formosans will swarm around Mother’s Day weekend.

Are termites attracted to light?

Yes. Swarming termites, which fly in groups during reproduction, are attracted to outside lights at night. Once fertilized, these swarmers will bury into the ground, lose their wings and hunt for the perfect spot to start a new colony. 

Do termites bite?

Yes, but good news for us – Their entrée of choice is wood. And they sometimes will eat other insects to protect their colonies. At the end of the day, if you suspect a termite infestation, you don’t need to worry about them hurting you; but you should definitely call a professional to treat the issue.

What are the signs of an infestation?

Common indicators of a termite infestation include wood that sounds hollow when tapped, cracked or bubbling paint, mud tubes on exterior walls, signs of droppings and/or a temporary swarm of winged insects in or around your home.

How do I get rid of termites?

We have an easy solution – Call The Bug Man. As the greater Baton Rouge area’s leader in termite protection, we have the expertise and innovative means to deliver the most cutting-edge treatment solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our termite control services.

8 Helpful Tips to Help Protect Your Property From Termites

Posted on June 12, 2021 by - Termites

It’s that time of year again. Yep, you guessed it—time for The Bug Man to come out and inspect for termites.

It’s that time of year again. Yep, you guessed it—time for The Bug Man to come out and inspect for termites. While termites are active year-round, most subterranean termites tend to swarm in the spring and summer months here in Louisiana. However, with all the recent rain and flooding making wood structures a breeding ground for an infestation, it’s never been more important to have your home or business inspected for these pests.

When there is this amount of moisture, termite colonies are constantly looking for new sources of food. It’s essential to take proactive measures to prevent termites from destroying something you try so hard to protect.

Here are some helpful tips to help safeguard your property:

  1. Store firewood away from your home. Place it in a dry area.
  2. Don’t allow water to pool next to the slab or under your home or business. Create ways to help the water drain away.
  3. Trim your tree limbs and vines that may be growing near or on your home.
  4. If you have any leaks in your pipes, roof or outside faucets, have them repaired or replaced.
  5. Repair any rotting wood on the soffit, fascia and exterior wood surfaces.
  6. Clean the gutters on your home and repair any sections that may be damaged.
  7. Make sure to turn off outside lights at night. Consider using yellow bulbs to avoid attracting swarming termites.
  8. Call The Bug Man to get rid of them.

Take a look around your structure and look for mud tubes on slabs, piers, or walls and pinholes in wallboards, softness in flooring or blisters in paint or wallpaper. If you see any of these signs, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with a termite infestation. They can and will destroy if not dealt with in a timely manner. If you need help with your termite problem or to schedule an inspection, give The Bug Man a call at 225-923-2847.

If You Think Floods Are Bad, Wait Until You Hear About Termites.

Posted on May 24, 2021 by - Termites

Recently Flooded? Treat for Moisture and Termites

The recent rain and floods have done an incredible amount of damage to homes and businesses across the state. To magnify the problem, termites look at the amount of moisture around and don’t see a problem but an opportunity to thrive. Pests are survivors.

As many people will be opening up their walls to let their studs dry out, this is a perfect time to not only do a surface repair but also treat for termites. The type of termite that causes the most damage in North America is the subterranean termite. These pests require ample moisture and then add a food source that contacts moist areas of the soil, and there you have it – perfect conditions for an infestation.

Most pests will seek higher ground to get out of floodwaters. Some insects, like fire ants, will float on water to survive. So, one might think that termites might drown in water. Well, the answer to that is “no” as termites have been around for 250 million years and have survived the ice age, natural disasters, and dinosaurs’ extinction. In short, these pests have strategies to survive.

One strategy for survival is in the way termites breathe. Termites have a system of holes (spiracles) along the sides of their bodies. When around bodies of water, they can close their spiracles for extended periods. One study found that they could survive underwater for over 19 hours. If that doesn’t amaze you, then consider this – they can also tread water for up to 4 days.

Flooding causes damp and wet conditions to become attractive to termites. In many cases, wood that is wet for extended periods of time may lead to an above-ground termite infestation as the termites move into the damp wood. If flooding has damaged your foundation or footing, termites can gain access to your structure

If a termite baiting system is installed around a flooded structure and the floodwaters are contaminated with pollutants, the bait matrix can be tainted and compromised in terms of attractiveness to termites. In this situation, the bait and possibly the bait housing would need to be replaced.

Soil treatments may require remediation or re-treatment if the soil has shifted or eroded or if sediment is deposited over a treated area. Likewise, flood waters may cause chemical treatments applied directly to wood for structural protection to leach out, requiring re-treatment.
Excess moisture is the biggest threat to a home’s structure. The moisture will compromise the strength of the wood, promote mold and fungi growth and attract pests. One way to combat that is with Bora-Care with Mold-Care. It acts as a moisture preventative against the damaging effects of water and the conditions that promote infect infestation. The Bug Man provides moisture treatment to open studs with at least 8% or less of moisture. A termite preventative can be performed as well with Bora Care while the walls are open to your structure.

Based on history, floods and standing water problems will not kill termites. At best, they provide termites more material to feed on due to increased moisture levels. That is all the more reason that pest management professionals need to get out and make sure their termite protection and moisture treatments are in place. Frequent inspection is the key to termite control success.

If a flood has impacted you, The Bug Man can help by making a thorough inspection of the flooded property/structures to determine if your treatment has been compromised. We can suggest appropriate steps for remediation if needed. Give us a call (225) 923-2847

Beware of the “Super Termites”

Posted on May 7, 2021 by - Termites

image of super termites

It’s that time of year that many of us dread. You guessed it, Formosan Termites are looking to feast on your home. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill Termites. The Formosan Termite is also known as a “super termite” since they are much more aggressive and destructive than their relatives. Just how harmful, you ask? They are responsible for nearly $2 billion a year in property damage.

Louisiana is a perfect climate for these pests. They love the moist wood in the spring and summer months. They do most of their damage at night. They will shed their wings after flight and find a safe place to mate and begin their colony by laying eggs. Formosan Termite colonies can have anywhere from 1 -10 million termites within them.

Once the Formosan Termite is mature, it can cause massive amounts of damage. They can go through roughly 13 ounces of wood in a single day. If you do the math, that means a single colony of Formosan Termites can destroy an entire structure in three months.

So, what can you do to defend and defeat the “super termites”? At the Bug Man, we look for areas with conducive conditions around your home. We then treat the house in various methods, such as digging trenches, applying termiticides, hydraulically injecting the termiticide around the slab area and then baiting the home with Sentricon – the best on the market, to help prevent Formosan Termite infestations.

So what’s the bottom line? The best way to control is to have a termite barrier in place with liquids or baits to prevent entry into the home. The Bug Man, our professional and knowledgeable crew has years of experience with Formosan Termites. We can help save and protect your home or business. Give us a call to go over your options.

Buying A New Home? Here’s One Thing To NEVER Forget.

Posted on February 1, 2021 by - Termites

Never overlook the termite inspection

Buying a home is one of the most significant moments you’ll experience in life. You now have a home that you can settle down in and maybe raise a family. You’ve invested so much into making this dream come true, but there’s one thing never to overlook when making this large purchase – a termite inspection.

Not many people consider a termite inspection as part of the overall home inspection, when in fact, a termite inspection is one of the more common contingencies in a real estate contract. Termites cause over $5 billion dollars in damage annually in the US. That’s why more and more lenders are offering loans only with a mandatory termite inspection, such as a VA loan, which requires a termite inspection to be performed in all home purchases.

Far too often in the past, a termite inspection was overlooked, leaving the new owner in a world of hurt. Thankfully, as we grow wiser, more and more owners are checking for termites and other wood destroying insects when buying a home.

Imagine how upsetting it would be to learn that termites have been munching on your beloved home. This is not a problem you can afford to ignore. They will continue to do what they do, and the problem will only get worse.
The same can be said for any pests – from ants to mice. Bring in a professional like The Bug Man, stop termites in their tracks and repair the damage before the sale. While ants and mice are not a huge concern and can be rectified relatively easily, wood destroying insects are not something to fool around with because of their ability to destroy the structural integrity of a home.

When it comes to making your home purchase, call The Bug Man, we’ll make sure your new home is pest free and can help make this next chapter of your life go a lot smoother. To make sure all insect infestation signs or pest inhabitation are appropriately addressed. Give us a call or text at 225-923-2847.