Termites

What are Termites?

There are many species of Termite, with many experts believing as many as 4,000 different species exist. Of those, it is considered that 400 species of termites are dangerous pests due to the sometimes critical damage they can do to timber framed buildings and other sources of timber. Part of the Termites strength is the fact that it chooses to live underground, with the only tell-tale of their presence being the mounds left on the surface. These mounds are usually a good indicator of just how big and expansive the colony has grown and the mound will usually continue to grow in size as the colony does. While many species live underground, there are other species of Termite which choose to live in shelters that they have bored into wood. Tell-tale signs of these species are the small tubes bored into the timber.

Why do I have them?

Termites feed primarily on cellulose from dead plant material, so if any of the correct conditions exist – wood, leaf litter, dung and soil – then it is possible for Termites to gain a foothold.

Are termites dangerous?

Although Termites do not carry diseases that have been known to be transmitted to humans, the danger from Termites is still very real. Their mouth parts are incredibly strong and adept and chewing through timber and wood, causing large amounts of damage and potentially affecting the structural integrity of buildings, sometimes to the point of collapse.

How do I get rid of Termites?

Termites do not have to form a colony close to their source of food and it has been known for termite colonies to be as far as 300 feet away from the food source. A vast network of tunnels leads from the nest site because although they have the potential to damage man-made structures, the Termite is in fact weaker than many other insects and can easily fall prey to predators if not for the tunnel network to shelter in. Assured Environments have a highly trained pest control team that will use all their training and skill to trace the route of the tunnels, leading them to the main colony where they can take all the necessary steps to destroy the colony and prevent re-infestation.

Can I do it myself?

There are Do-It-Yourself methods on the market to get rid of Termites but unless the location of the actual colony is discovered, any control techniques used will prove ineffective. If chemicals are involved with Do-It-Yourself methods then extra care must be taken as pest control products can be harmful to humans and pets if mixed or used improperly.

How soon can you get here?

Assured Environments understand that your pest problems are a priority for you and that is why we commit to being there when you need us. We can usually begin to tackle the problem the same or very next day.

Is the treatment for termites safe?

All pest control products used by Assured Environments have been thoroughly checked and passed for pest control use by the EPA. In addition, Assured Environments apply these products under a strict set of guidelines which means you can be sure they will cause no harm to humans or pets. Should any particular safety measures need to be taken, our trained pest control professionals will inform you immediately.

How can I prevent this in the future?

Termites can be very difficult to prevent due to the vast network of underground tunnels linking their colony with their food source. Should you become aware of Termites in and around your property, a call to Assured Environments is the beginning of the end to your Termite problems