TERMITE POPULATIONS TO POSE SIGNIFICANT THREAT IN 2014

Stark Exterminators Encourages Homeowners to Protect Themselves from This Voracious Pest

Residents in our area certainly want this winter behind them and are hoping spring is right around the corner.  While spring brings many things to enjoy, there are also some not-so-nice effects of warmer weather as well.  Termites top that list and will begin swarming as soon as the temperatures rise.  Stark Exterminators, a local pest and termite control company urges homeowners to learn more about this destructive pest in an effort to protect their homes. Termites cause over $5 billion in structural damage each year which is more than storms and fires combined.  And, most termite damage is NOT covered by homeowner's insurance.  Colonies of subterranean, drywood and Formosan termites, the most common termites in our area, are expected to be at an all-time high again this year.  Once inside a home, termites will chew 24 hours a day through concrete, wood, carpeting, floors and wallpaper.

Swarming occurs as termites are seeking to expand their current colonies and it is often the first time a homeowner becomes aware of a potential infestation.  However termites are most often present in a home well before they begin to swarm.  Other evidence of a termite infestation includes mud tunneling in, over and under wood structures; the darkening or blistering of wood; and/or damaged wood becoming extremely thin.  In all circumstances a pest professional should be contacted immediately.  Additionally, Stark recommends that homeowners have their property inspected annually by a licensed professional to protect their families and their investment.

"Once a termite infestation begins, the damage can occur very quickly so it's imperative that homeowners get an inspection early in the season," says Shay Runion, Stark Pest Expert. "Many homeowners believe that termites don't exist simply because they can't see them. However, the absence of typical "swarming" signs doesn't mean there is no termite activity happening below the surface of a home."

Stark Exterminators offers these tips to help prevent a termite infestation this spring:

• Eliminate moisture around foundations.  Also, divert water from the house by using proper downspouts and gutters because termites are attracted to moisture.
• Seal cracks and holes, to prevent termite entry, including areas where utilities and pipes enter the home.
• Do not stack firewood or lumber near home, and inspect it carefully before bringing it indoors.
• Keep tree branches, shrubbery and ground covering well trimmed and away from the house.
• Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation.
• Have your home inspected annually by a licensed pest professional who specializes in termite control
• Consider installing a 24/7/365 protection system, such as the Sentricon^® System with Always Active™ technology.