Land O’ Lakes Termite Control

Signs You May Have a Termite Infestation in Land O’ Lakes, FL

Early detection and proactive measures are critical to prevent termites from wreaking havoc on your property. When an infestation is identified and treated in its early stages, the termite colony can be more easily and effectively eradicated, preventing further damage. You should be aware of the warning signs of an infestation so that you are prepared to act fast and call in the professionals. 

Do not wait to call our Land O’ Lakes termite control experts if you encounter any of the following signs of an infestation:

• Mud Tubes on Walls. Subterranean termites build pencil-sized “mud tubes,” or tunnels, to connect their colony in the soil to their food source (your house). These tubes are often found along the foundation, on walls, and on ceilings. If you spot them anywhere in your home, you probably have an infestation.
• Swarmers or Their Discarded Wings. At certain points in their breeding cycle, termites will send winged “swarmers” to seek out mates and create new colonies. If you find these winged pests in your home or their discarded wings, you likely have a termite colony somewhere in your home.
• Termite Droppings. Termites leave behind tiny, pellet-like droppings known as frass. Piles of these small droppings tend to indicate a termite infestation.
• Damaged or Hollowed Wood. As termites consume wood from the inside out, they will visibly damage it and hollow out its interior. If you tap on a piece of wood and it sounds hollow, or if you notice small holes, termites may be to blame.
• Bubbling or Uneven Paint. Termite damage can also manifest as bubbling or uneven paint on your walls, which is often mistaken for water damage. This is caused by termites consuming wood close to the surface, which affects the integrity of the paint.
• Tight-fitting Doors and Windows. As termites consume the wood around your doors and windows, it can cause these fixtures to warp, making them harder to open or close.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Termite Control Methods 

While you may be tempted to try to save money and effort via do-it-yourself (DIY) termite extermination methods, these “solutions” tend to do more harm than good. Termite extermination is far more complex than many realize, as termites are not just surface pests. They form vast colonies that burrow deep into the wood structures of your home. Over-the-counter treatments might eliminate a small fraction of these pests, but they often fail to reach the extensive termite colonies hidden within the walls or beneath the floors. Without professional expertise, it is nearly impossible to fully eradicate a termite infestation, and incomplete extermination efforts can allow surviving termites to regrow their colonies, leading to recurring infestations.

The improper use of DIY termite control products can be hazardous. Many of these products contain chemicals that can pose serious health risks if not handled correctly, including skin or eye irritation, respiratory issues, and in severe cases, chemical burns. This risk is amplified in homes with children, pets, or individuals with existing health conditions. Additionally, misuse or over-application of these products can potentially harm the local ecosystem, contaminating water sources and adversely affecting non-target organisms.