Termite prevention is better than an expensive cure
Termites are among the most damaging structural pests in India. Commonly known as white ants, they devour large amounts of wood and all other materials that contain cellulose. Although some structures are more prone to termite attacks, every house is susceptible to a potential termite infestation. While many house owners worry about fire or flooding, termite damage is a much more common problem.
Even if your home is built mainly of brick or stone, there is a risk of termite attacks on structural support and other building elements that are constructed of wood or other cellulose-containing materials.
Termites are very secretive insects. Hence, it comes as no surprise that termite activities are usually recognized very late when a lot of damage has already been done. Termite damage weakens wooden structures, and repairs can be a costly affair. In India, the most commonly encountered pest termites are subterranean termites
What are subterranean termites?
All termites are social insects, which live in large colonies. They originate from the soil and generally enter structures undetected via hidden pathways, the so-called “mud tunnels” in foundation walls and floors. They primarily live inside the soil and come out mostly to forage for feeding purposes.
Although subterranean termites can be a menace, they are important to the environment because they break down dead plant material converting it to humus. Like any other pest, termites become a problem when they invade your home and living space.
How do you know if you have termites?
The most common signs of a termite infestation include
- Swarmers – generally shortly before and after the annual rains, winged reproductive termites, the so-called alates, emerge and make a short mating flight. Swarming termites are usually attracted to bright light and can thus be found near windows. After mating, they shed their wings, which are another tell-tale sign of termite presence.
- Shelter tubes – termites are very sensitive to changes in humidity. That is why they build mud tubes to protect themselves from sunlight, predators and to maintain convenient humidity levels. These tubes are a good sign of an ongoing termite infestation.
- Damage – as termite workers consume wood, they create honeycombed galleries which run parallel to the grain of the wood. There is often more damage than at first thought due to their secretive lifestyle and consumption of wood from the inside out.
People often confuse termites with winged ants, especially when they swarm. Key differences include:
- The bodies of ants have a narrow constriction or waist, termites do not.
- Termite wings are of equal length, ants have a long pair of wings and a short pair of wings.
- All ants have elbowed antennae and termites have straight antennae.
Termite control treatments – get rid of termites
Understandably, people are very concerned when they discover they have a termite problem. Fortunately, termite control technology has made tremendous strides in recent years. By calling Rentokil, you can be assured that your home will be serviced using the most modern materials and strategies available, and by a trained, experienced termite control technician.
Termites are an extremely persistent and challenging pest. Homeowners should not attempt to resolve a termite problem on their own.
At Rentokil, the first step to treating termites is a thorough inspection. Programs are tailored specifically for your home, your needs, and your preferences using the following service options.
Om Pest plan for post-construction anti-termite treatments
The chemicals used have greatly developed over the last decades, the recent most have a minimal impact on other beneficial soil fauna and will not spoil groundwater levels, as did the initial treatment methods.
Om pest control uses an advanced technique to protect homes from a subterranean termite infestation by creating a treated zone around the perimeter and sub-floor of a premise. As termites tunnel through the treated zones in search of food, they are exposed to a very effective termiticide. This insecticide is not only ingested but also adheres to the termites’ bodies. The affected termites then spread the chemical to other termites through physical contact. Within a few weeks, the entire termite colony is destroyed, and you have guaranteed protection for the number of years as per the 5-3-2 plan you seek.
Based on your termite protection requirements you can choose between termite control treatments with a warranty period of two years, three years, or five years.
Why choose Om Pest Control for termite control treatments?
Your home is your most important investment and homeowners have for decades turned, with confidence, to Rentokil to help them tackle their termite problems.
Considering the stakes, do not be fooled by discount termite control. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be an informed consumer. Remember that termite activity is often only noticed after extensive damage has been done. Make sure to ask for and thoroughly check the treatment documentation; professional service providers will offer warranties and regular inspections to assure you the peace of mind of a protected home.
While Rentokil will not be the least expensive termite control professional, you will have the assurance of working with an honest company that continuously strives for satisfaction and stands behind its work.
Find out more about why homeowners choose Rentokil to defend their homes against termite attacks.