What To Do About A Termite Infestation In Your Baltimore Home

Termites are destructive insects that feed on cellulose, a substance found in wood, paper products, and similar materials. In the United States, each year, estimates suggest that several billion dollars in property damage results from termite activity. Homeowners in Baltimore should learn how to recognize termites, the signs of an infestation, and the best ways of preventing these damaging creatures. 

What is the best way to get rid of termites? Your home represents an investment that deserves treatment performed by trained professionals. A Baltimore pest control company will conduct a property assessment and accurately determine if a termite problem exists. 

Clear Signs Of A Termite Infestation In Your Home

How do you know you have termites? To prevent costly property damage, homeowners in Baltimore should look for some of the most common indications of a termite infestation, such as: 

• During the spring months, winged termite "swarmers" are often seen gathering in areas near an existing infestation.
• Following internal shifts from termite damage, home occupants often notice that doors and windows become increasingly difficult to open or close.
• Interior walls often appear water-damaged or have peeling paint. 
• Floors might sound "creaky" when walked on. 

Baltimore residents should remember that termites are insects that exist in natural outdoor environments. Therefore, these pests are an ongoing concern that can create a need for costly repairs. Those who suspect the presence of termites should promptly seek help from a trained professional. 

Termites Can Undermine The Structural Integrity Of Your Home

Termites often initially erode wooden areas from the interior, which is particularly concerning when the damage involves structural elements of your home. The majority of home-invading termites are subterranean, meaning they form large underground colonies and emerge in search of wood. Termite damage might occur near the base or foundation of the home, which can comprise the integrity of all parts of the above structure. Although unlikely, dangerous collapses are a possibility as a result of well-developed termite infestations. 

Don't Try To Get Rid Of Termites On Your Own

Online retailers and local home improvement stores sell termite foam spray and other treatments for "do-it-yourselfers." Unfortunately, the majority of these store-bought home options prove insufficient against moderate or severe termite infestations. Your property is unique, and so are termite infestations; therefore, one-size-fits-all solutions are inherently ineffective and result in further frustration. Choosing a local service provider for termite control is the best option. 

The Best Way To Get Rid Of A Termite Infestation

What is the best course of action when you notice signs of a termite infestation in your home? For effective termite control and prevention, speak with a local pest control company regarding a property inspection. 

Our staff with ATC Pest Control has many of the latest termite control options in the industry at their disposal. We use products from Altriset®, Termidor®, and other professional-grade termite treatment options that have demonstrated both effectiveness and safety. Our experts create a virtual perimeter of protection around the property that uses a termiticide injection system. To accurately detect the presence of termites, we often deploy a thermal imaging device that allows for identifying termites that are hiding inside walls. 

As a family-owned organization, we recognize the importance of choosing products and application methods that protect our customers, their pets, and our local environment. We are properly certified and licensed by the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) and comply with the guidelines of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Our staff is available for one-time services and also offers comprehensive quarterly and annual residential pest protection plans that will keep your home free of many undesirable creatures that plague homeowners in Baltimore. Please contact our office today for further details.