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Termites Explained

 

Termites are pulp eaters. Also known scientifically as cryptobiotic, they are so good at concealing themselves, you may not even know they are in your Los Angeles or Valley home or office.  But they are there.  Hiding out.  Eating non-stop 24/7, they use moistrue, sharp teeth and intestinal micro-organisms to convert cullulose in wood, plants and even paper into food.

 

Evidence of termites

 

Telltale signs you have termites include spongy wood, narrow mud tubes that termites make with their saliva and tiny bits of wood or drywall.  If you break one of these open and see the little guys working, you've got a problem and should contact us immediately.  Foraging termite workers leave the nest to find food, usually in a warm, humid place such as a poorly ventilated crawl space. 

While many types of termites walk through moist soil, flying termites go out during swarming season, but they nest out of site.  A termite infestation may not even be visible until you renovate or have your home professionally inspected.

 

Termite swarm

 

Termite swarmers, the ones that are designated to leave the colony to spread and create new colonies, are not directly damaging.  However, once they find moist territory, they shed their wings and start procreating.  It may take years for a new colony to mature and then it means trouble. If you find shed wings indoors, it's a good time to call Right Time Termite Compay for a free termite inspection.

 

Termite removal

 

The best way to remove termites is to keep them out in the first place.  Termite protection begins by cutting off their food and water supply by storing firewood at least 20 feet from your property. Maintain a 6-12 inch line between mulch or soil and wood parts of the house.  Foilage should be at least 3 feet away.  Sprinklers should be aimed away from the foundation and downspouts away from the house.  Don't bring home lumber unless it's been treated to turn off termites.  Keep air vents cleear so dry air can circulate.  Keep attics and basements (Yes, Los Angeles residences still have basements in some communities).  Fill any entry points where termites can enter from torn flashing to cracks in your basement's or foundation's concrete.  Check porches, fence posts and any sill plates for evidence of termites.  If you find evidence of termites, there are various termite treatment methods available.

 

How to kill termites naturally

 

We are sometimes asked if there is a way to kill termites naturally.  Unfortunately, the best way to get rid of termites still requires termite poison.  These termiticides work by entering the termite's digestive system which gets distributed through the colony when food is shared.  It's a disgusting process, but your property belongs to you.  Not them.  Right Time Termite kills termites with poisons that leave no undesirable odors after treatment.

 

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