Termite Identification & Prevention

What You Need To Know About Termites In Baltimore, Maryland

Termites are among the few organisms that convert cellulose into a usable food source. Out in nature, they are valuable recyclers helping to eliminate decaying trees and other organic matter. However, when termites find their way to our Baltimore, Maryland properties, they quickly become destructive pests, and homeowners need to take fast action to prevent the damage these pests cause. Termites are wood-eating pests that we must keep away from our homes and other wooden structures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Termites

What are termites?

Termites are social insects that can live in colonies with up to a million members. These insects may be tiny, but their desire to ensure the success of their colony makes them very successful. They work together to locate appropriate food sources, excavate the wood, and bring it back to the nest. Termites work day and night, year-round, to collect enough food to sustain their colony. Once termites discover that your property or home can supply them with a food source, they won’t easily be discouraged.

Are subterranean termites dangerous?

Termites pose significant threats to structures. Most of our homes have some wood components that provide a source of nutrition for termites. Termites have the ability to be so damaging because they can be inside a home without notice for months or even years. Each year, termites cause more than five billion dollars in damage to structures across the United States. Most homeowners insurance companies view termite damage as preventable and won’t cover the cost of repairs. Termites are as damaging to our bank accounts as they are to our properties.

Why do I have a termite problem?

Baltimore’s warm, humid climate allows termites to thrive in our area. The termites here are attracted to moisture, wet or decaying wood, and damp soil. If your yard has poor drainage or your home has poor ventilation or leaky pipes, your property is at risk of attracting the attention of local termites. Termites usually enter our homes after being attracted to moisture and find their way inside through small cracks in the foundation. These pests also move inside structures through pieces of wood, making direct contact with the ground – porch steps, deck posts, and wooden trim or shingles.

Where will I find termites?

The termites in Maryland typically nest under the ground and travel to and from their nest to food sources through the soil or mud tubes they create above the ground. Inside our homes, termites feed on pieces of structural wood behind walls, under floors, and above ceilings. Structural wood near windows, doors, the roofline, and pipes are most susceptible to water damage and, therefore, termite infestation.

Because termites remain largely “invisible” to people, learning the signs of a termite infestation is key to limiting the damage they can cause. Signs of a termite problem include:

Mud tubes located on the ground or traveling up the foundation or basement walls.
Floors that feel spongy when you walk across them.
Clicking noises behind the walls of your home.
Windows or doors that have become difficult to open and close.
Blistered paint on walls.

Because termites are attracted to properties with moisture issues, if termites have become a problem, you should inspect your property for moisture issues and quickly repair leaks, clogs, and other issues you discover.

How do I get rid of termites?

Trust our high-quality, guaranteed termite control services to get rid of termites and keep them from returning. At ATC Pest Control, we are committed to our customers and offer the comprehensive services necessary to find, treat, and eliminate all the active termites on your property. We know how destructive termites are and how expensive their damage is to repair – partner with us today and begin protecting your home from destructive, wood-eating termites. Call now and learn about our effective termite control and prevention services.

How can I prevent termites in the future?

Use the following strategies to prevent problems with termites in your Baltimore home.

Eliminate wet or rotting wood from your home and yard.
Repair leaky pipes and areas of poor ventilation that could result in your home’s structural wood being damaged and more appealing to termites.
Store firewood away from the exterior of your home.
Remove fallen trees and tree stumps from your property.
Create a crushed stone barrier between mulch or soil and your home’s foundation.

For effective termite removal and control in Baltimore, call us at ATC Pest Control today!