Termites can cause serious problems for homeowners. They can silently eat away at the wood elements inside your walls and under your house. If they continue to do this unencumbered it can lead to expensive structural issues and damage to your home. There are some areas of the country where termites are more common than others. Because termites can infest your home without your knowledge-until damage is extensive and obvious-it is important to know if they are in your area. In Visalia, CA and throughout the state, termites are a common problem.
Types of termites in California
Homes in California can become infested by subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. These are broad categories of termites and there are many subtypes within these categories. The type of termite you may have in your Visalia home depends on a number of factors. You do not have to identify the specific type of termite causing problems at your home. When you have a pest control professional inspect your home they will make the necessary identifications and decide on the appropriate treatment.
Potential issues from a termite infestation
Termites can eat away at the foundational wood of your home and cause foundation problems. Foundation issues can lead to cracked sheetrock, damaged floors, improperly closing doors, and a whole host of other problems. Drywood termites can damage wood inside of your house such as your trim and furniture. The studs inside your walls and the wood used in roofing can both also be impacted by termites. The potential issues from a termite infestation have the potential to be both extensive and costly.
Treatment options for a termite problem
Termites are not a pest issue you can handle yourself with a trip to the hardware store for a DIY treatment. These pests are difficult to eradicate partially because they can get into hard to reach places. Without proper training and experience you could miss signs of an infestation. Termites require the intervention of a trained professional. A termite specialist can inspect the areas of your home where termites tend to invade and identify whether or not you have an issue. If you do have a termite infestation the solution is to have it treated by a pest control professional. Treatment includes spraying the infested areas or structural fumigation. The best option will depend on the type and level of the infestation.
Living in California means that your home is susceptible to termite infestations. You can combat the damage that an infestation can cause by being proactive with your pest control efforts. Regularly scheduled pest control treatments are one way to stay ahead of a termite infestation. If you want to be even more vigilant about protecting your home you can schedule a termite inspection. In an area where termites are common it is essential to stay on top of termite protection and treatment efforts.
