Termites are silent destroyers, quietly causing thousands of dollars in damage to Orlando homes. These insidious pests can compromise your property’s structural integrity without any visible signs.
Protect your investment with expert termite control. Read on to learn proven methods to get rid of termites and safeguard your property.
Key Takeaways
- Different types of termites in Orlando, including drywood, Eastern subterranean, Formosan, and dampwood, may need unique treatment plans.
- Early detection of termite infestations, such as mud tubes, pinholes, and sagging structures, can save you significant repair costs.
- To make your properties less inviting to termites, you can take preventive measures, such as removing wood debris and fixing moisture issues.
- Consulting with professional exterminators is essential for tailored termite treatments and damage repairs, ensuring long-term protection.
How to Get Rid of Termites in Orlando, FL
Dealing with termite problems in Orlando requires a systematic approach. As homeowners, you must take actionable steps to get rid of these pests from your properties.
Identify the Type of Termites in Your Home
Orlando faces challenges from various termite species that may need different treatment plans. Common species include:
| Termite Species | Distinct Physical Features |
|---|---|
Drywood Termites | Around 3/8 to 1 inch long, pale brown, with clear or smoky wings longer than the body. |
Eastern Subterranean Termites | 1/8 to 3/8 inches long, dark brown to black, with a ribbed abdomen; workers are creamy white. |
Formosan Termites | About 1/2 inch long, yellowish-brown soldiers have teardrop-shaped heads and translucent wings. |
Dampwood Termites | Up to 1 inch long, reddish-brown to dark brown, robust body with no distinct waist. |
Look for Signs of a Termite Infestation
Knowing what to look for is essential to catching an infestation before it becomes severe. To save you thousands in repair costs, watch out for visible telltale signs of termite activity like:
- Mud tubes on exterior walls
- Wood and piles of pellet-like droppings
- Pinholes in drywall or wallpaper
- Piles of wings near windows or doors
- Sagging floors or ceilings
- Crumbling wood or hollow-sounding timber
Carry Out DIY Termite Preventive Measures
As Orlando homeowners, you can take steps to make your property less attractive to termites. These measures focus on removing cellulose and reducing moisture.
Here’s what you can do while waiting for pest management:
- Remove wood debris from around the home.
- Apply natural repellents like orange oil on entry points.
- Keep mulch at least 6 inches away from the foundation.
- Fix leaky pipes and faucets promptly.
- Keep windows and doors closed to prevent swarmers from entering.
- Ensure proper drainage around the house.
- Use termite-resistant wood for outdoor projects.
Consult with Professional Termite Exterminators
For your peace of mind, professional pest control services offer expertise and access to effective types of treatments. They can develop a tailored control plan based on the specific termite species and infestation level.
They may use various services to get rid of termite colonies, including:
| Services | Description |
|---|---|
| Termite Inspection | A comprehensive evaluation to identify infestations. |
| Termite Monitoring | Ongoing checks to detect termite activity early before it worsens. |
| Liquid Treatments | Application of liquid termiticides to get rid of colonies. |
| Baiting Systems | Installation of termite bait stations to control these critters. |
| Fumigation Services | A whole-structure treatment that can also get rid of bed bugs and roaches. |
| Termite Prevention | Treatments for preventing termites from causing future infestations and damages. |
| Damage Repair Services | Repair of structures from termite damage. |
Prepare Your Home for Professional Treatment
Proper preparation ensures the effectiveness of professional termite treatment. As homeowners, you must follow the pest control company’s instructions carefully.
Preparation may involve moving furniture, clearing areas around the foundation, and securing pets. Some treatment options require you to vacate the premises temporarily.
Maintain a Termite-Free Home After Treatment
Conducting annual inspections with a pest control professional is crucial to detecting early signs of termite activity. Between these checks, look for mud tubes, discarded wings, or signs of wood damage to catch and report issues early.
If your home has bait stations or chemical barriers installed for termite protection, maintain them by checking them regularly and replenishing or reapplying them as needed.
When to Call a Termite Expert in Orlando
Termites can cause serious damage to Orlando homes. Knowing when to call in the pest control professionals is crucial for protecting your property.
If termites swarm around your Florida home, contact a termite expert immediately. Don’t wait until the damage is extensive. Early intervention for these pest problems saves money and protects your home’s structure.