by L. Woodrow Ross

Created on: July 27, 2010   Last Updated: July 28, 2010

Termites do millions of dollars in damage throughout the world. They eat wood and it doesn't matter to them whether it is a dead tree or your house. They live in massive colonies and once established can do considerable damage in a short period of time.

The first step in combating termites is to determine if you have an infestation. Houses having basements without wood on the lower area are less susceptible, but not exempt. The closer the wood is to the ground, the more easy it is for termites to access the wood and begin the destructive process. In order to determine if you have a problem, go under your house and make a visual inspection. If you have a crawl space under your house and there is woody debris of any kind on the ground, it is like a "termite magnet". They will find these scraps and then move on to the structure.

Termites need moisture and darkness. Check all foundations and supports under the house. In order to reach the wood without being exposed to air, termites will build a mud tunnel from the ground, on the surface of the interior foundation or on supports. These are easily spotted if on exposed areas. Be aware that there may be spaces in the brick or block that allow concealed tunnels to be built that reach the wood. If you see an area of wood that appears weakened or has mud tunnels on it, it is a problem. Even though you don't see exposed tunnels, the wood may be severely damaged.

If you see suspect wood, use a scratch awl or sharp pointed screwdriver to test the wood's resilience. If it is damaged the the tool will bury easily into the wood and crumble it.

Even though you may have treated the house, it pays to do periodic inspections to assure that there is not a recurring infestation. Termites can destroy a house beyond repair if not detected in time. If detected in a timely manner, minor damage can be repaired after the infestation is eradicated.

Termites are found in the soil anywhere there is woody debris. In addition, when they swarm during the winged period, they can establish new colonies.

Once you determine that you have an infestation, contact a licensed pest control company to apply chemical pesticide that will kill the insects. They will offer periodic check-ups and contracts that assure their responsibility if any future damage occurs during the contract period.

Don't ignore a termite problem. It will not go away and they have the potential to destroy your house.

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