Love Your Home? Protect It from Termite Damage!
Your home is your biggest investment, but termites don’t care—they’ll eat away at it 24/7, 365 days a year. While termite activity never stops, spring is peak termite season on Long Island, bringing swarms of reproductive termites looking for new places to establish colonies. If your home isn’t protected, it could be at risk.
Understanding what termites do, the signs of termite damage, and when to call a termite exterminator can save you thousands of dollars in repairs. Here’s what every Long Island homeowner should know about keeping termites at bay this spring.
What Do Termites Do to Your Home?
Termites are silent destroyers, feeding on wood, flooring, and even wallpaper. They tunnel through wooden structures, weakening them over time. Because they live inside walls, crawl spaces, and foundations, termite damage often goes unnoticed until significant harm has already been done.
There are different types of termites, but subterranean termites are the most destructive species found on Long Island. These pests build underground colonies and travel through mud tubes to reach their food source—your home. They thrive in moist environments and can cause severe structural damage if left untreated.
When Are Termites Most Active?
Termites are active all year, but termite season kicks off in early spring. This is when termite swarmers, winged reproductive termites, emerge from mature colonies to start new ones. If you see swarms of flying insects around your home or piles of discarded wings near windows and doors, it’s a major red flag that a colony is nearby.
Even if you don’t see swarmers, termites could still be silently eating away at your home. Since subterranean termites build tunnels underground, they can invade without ever being seen. That’s why preventative measures and professional inspections are crucial.
Signs of Termite Damage
Because termites are hidden pests, knowing the signs of an infestation can help you take action before the damage becomes severe. Look for:
- Mud tubes along your foundation, walls, or in crawl spaces
- Hollow-sounding wood when tapped
- Bubbling or peeling paint that resembles water damage
- Tiny holes in drywall or crumbling wood
- Discarded termite wings near windowsills and doors
- Warped doors and windows that suddenly stick
If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t wait—call Knockout Pest Control immediately.
How to Protect Your Home This Termite Season
Prevention is key in keeping subterranean termites away from your home. Here are some steps Long Island homeowners can take to reduce the risk of an infestation:
- Reduce moisture around your home. Termites are drawn to damp environments. Fix leaks, ensure proper drainage, and keep gutters clean.
- Eliminate wood-to-soil contact. Store firewood, lumber, and mulch at least 20 feet away from your home.
- Seal cracks and entry points. Termites can squeeze through the smallest openings, so seal foundation cracks and gaps around pipes.
- Schedule an annual termite inspection. A professional termite exterminator like Knockout Pest Control can spot signs of termite activity early and recommend treatment options.
Why Termite Extermination Is Essential
Subterranean termites live in colonies that can contain millions of workers, making it nearly impossible to eliminate them without professional help. At Knockout Pest Control, we provide expert termite pest removal services, using industry-leading treatments to eliminate existing colonies and prevent future infestations.
With spring termite season on the horizon, now is the time to take action. If you’re a Long Island homeowner, don’t wait until the damage is done—schedule a termite inspection today!
