ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With our very mild winter coming to an end and all the exciting activities of spring like baseball season underway, it is time to think about some of the not-so-nice effects of the warmer weather as well. Termites are beginning to swarm in a big way and Arrow Exterminators urges homeowners to learn more about them in an effort to protect their homes. Estimated to cause more than $5 billion in structural damage each year, most of which is not covered by homeowner’s insurance, termites are very treacherous spring pests. Subterranean, drywood and Formosan termites, the most common termites in the south, become active in the spring, flourishing as soon as temperatures begin to heat up, and continuing through the summer. Given the mild winter we experienced, termite colony populations are expected to be at an all-time high this year. Once inside a home, termites can chew 24 hours a day through concrete, wood, carpeting, floors and wallpaper.
Swarms occur when termites seek to expand their territory and form new colonies. Not surprisingly, this is usually the first time a homeowner becomes aware of a potential infestation in the home, however termites are most often present in a home before they swarm. Other evidence of a termite infestation includes mud tunneling in, over and under wood structures; the darkening or blistering of wood; and/or damaged wood becoming extremely thin. In all circumstances a pest professional should be contacted immediately. Additionally, Arrow recommends that homeowners have their property inspected by a licensed professional annually to protect their families and their investment.
“Once a termite infestation begins, it can quickly cause significant property damage so it’s imperative that homeowners get an inspection early,” says Shay Runion, Arrow Pest Expert. “Many homeowners believe that termites don’t exist simply because they can’t see them. However, the absence of typical 'swarming' signs doesn’t mean there is no termite activity happening below the surface of a home.”
When it comes to termite control, Arrow Exterminators hits the ball out of the park and offers these tips to help prevent a termite infestation this spring:
- Eliminate moisture around foundations. Also, divert water from the house by using proper downspouts and gutters because termites are attracted to water.
- Seal cracks and holes to prevent termite entry, including areas where utilities and pipes enter the home.
- Do not stack firewood or lumber near home, and inspect it carefully before bringing it indoors.
- Keep tree branches, shrubbery and ground covering well trimmed and away from the house.
- Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation.
- Invest in 24/7/365 protection, such as the new Sentricon® Termite Colony Elimination System with Always Active™ technology.
Arrow protects homes from termites and other pests with the STEPS® Total Protection System, an industry-leading process that utilizes Integrated Pest Management. STEPS includes a full home and property evaluation to pinpoint pest control issues; identification of not only the pest, but the true cause of the problem; and treatment in the most environmentally responsible way to alleviate current issues and to help prevent future recurrences.
Consumers interested in protecting their homes from pests may obtain additional information at www.arrowexterminators.com. Additionally, consumers can contact Arrow for a free whole home evaluation at 1-888-462-7769.
About Arrow Exterminators
Family owned and operated since 1964, Atlanta-based Arrow Exterminators is the eighth largest pest and termite control company in the United States, ranked by revenue. Arrow boasts a modern fleet of more than 700 vehicles, more than 67 service centers and revenues exceeding $100 million. With QualityPro Certification by the National Pest Management Association, the company offers innovative and environmentally responsible services to protect homes and businesses of customers in Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. Visit www.arrowexterminators.com for more information.