At Clark Exterminating, we deal with termites around this time every year. Whether it’s termite inspections in Little Rock, termite treatment in Conway, or just good old termite extermination in Jacksonville, these unwelcome guests have a habit of making life miserable for Arkansas homeowners. With that in mind, we thought it might be a good idea to address some of the most frequently asked questions about everyone’s favorite home invader – termites.
What are termites?
Let’s start with an easy one. Termites are xylophagous (or “wood-eating” for you non-ecologists out there) insects that have been around since the dinosaurs. And, as we mentioned in Termites 101 last week, these bugs cause property damage to the tune of $5 billion per year across the United States – which comes out to about $47 million in Arkansas alone. Since termites eat 24/7, even a small nest can do a catastrophic amount of damage in a short amount of time.
What types of termites are there?
There are four different species of termites in the U.S. Drywood termites are fairly rare, but they prefer dry wood and can be found occasionally in Southern states like South Carolina and Texas. Dampwood termites prefer to eat, you guessed it, damp wood and are found in coastal states like Florida and the southwest. Formosan termites love humidity and build elaborate underground mud colonies. Finally, subterranean termites, found across the U.S., enjoy moist environments and are both the most common and one of the most destructive species.
How can I prevent termite infestation in the home?
As we mentioned in the last section, the most common types of termites, especially in Arkansas, love humid conditions. So, the first thing homeowners can do is reduce or eliminate moisture in their homes, from ventilation to gutters and downspouts to nearby vegetation. Furthermore, make sure all wood products, trunks, and roots are at least 18 inches away from your foundation. Then, just make sure you keep an eye out for signs of termites such as mud tubes or cracked wallpaper.
How do I get rid of termites?
There are DIY termite treatments out there, but with the survivability and tenacity of these pests, it’s highly recommended to leave termite extermination to a professional pest control company. Termites are very difficult to treat, and without proper training and expertise, they may come back even stronger than before. If you’re looking for termite treatment in Hot Springs, Cabot, Conway, or the Little Rock area, consider giving our team at Clark Exterminating a call. We’ve been working in Central Arkansas for over 30 years, and in that time we’ve learned a trick or two for getting rid of termite infestations. Get in touch at 501-588-2514 for the greater Little Rock area, 501-712-3721 for the greater Benton area, or just fill out a form on our Contact Us page today!
