Ever wonder why your home feels like it's been invaded by insects, but you can't find any? If so, you're not alone. The fact is that termites are responsible for millions of dollars in property damage each year, including in San Diego County. In addition to being able to live undetected within walls and other areas of your home, these pests are also very skilled at hiding from humans, so they often aren't discovered until they've caused extensive damage.
Luckily you can avoid such a scenario happening to your own property with San Diego County pest control - but only if you know what signs to look for and how best to protect yourself against infestation.
The Life Cycle Of Termites
The life cycle of termites is long, taking about three years for them to mature. They go through four distinct stages of development during this time:
- Egg: The termite egg is laid by the queen and is usually carried by workers.
- Nymph: This is the stage where most of the physical changes occur; they are similar in appearance to adults but smaller and lack wings.
- Pupa: The pupa is a dormant stage where the termite undergoes a metamorphosis. It looks like a tough, brown shell that protects its body while it develops into an adult.
- Adult: Once the termite reaches adulthood, it will begin mating and laying eggs of its own.
The average lifespan of a termite queen is about seven years, but they can live as long as 15 years in ideal conditions. If you see adult termites on your property, it may be time to call a pest control professional.
Why Termites Infest And Destroy Wooden Structures
Termites eat cellulose, which is the main component of wood. This is why they often infest wooden structures, such as houses and furniture. Cellulose is a tough substance that is difficult to digest, so termites have evolved a number of ways to break down this material. As they eat, they produce enzymes that help them digest cellulose and also produce an excess amount of saliva. This saliva contains chemicals that can soften the wood fibers or even dissolve them completely.
Factors That Can Attract Termites To Your Home
Termites can be attracted to your San Diego County home by:
- Wood-based construction. If your house is made of wood, it's more likely to be an attractive target for termites. That includes wooden decks and fences.
- Old and rotting wood. Termites love nothing more than old, rotting wood that hasn't been treated or maintained in years.
- A leaky roof or plumbing. If you have leaking water around your home and it's not getting repaired quickly, the moisture can attract termites.
If you see signs of termites in your home, you need to act fast. HomeShield Pest Control can help you eliminate them.
The Stress-Free Way To Total Termite Protection For Your Home
To make sure your home is protected, you will want to get a termite inspection. HomeShield Pest Control can inspect your property and determine if there are any signs of termites. Our technicians will also educate you on what types of pests you may be dealing with and how to treat active termites.
The best termite protection for your San Diego County home is not just getting rid of the existing problem but also preventing future infestations. A termite problem can cause thousands of dollars in damage to your property. The best way to protect against these pests is by having a regular pest control program that includes an annual inspection for signs of termites or other wood-destroying insects.