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Termite damage is no little thing. While it may not regularly be top of mind for the average homeowner, termite infestation is not a risk that should be ignored. According to the National Pest Management Association, termites cost homeowners more than $5 billion in damage each year.

More homes are at risk of termite infestation than you might think, so it’s important to learn to recognize the signs of termites, and what to do about them. The earlier you catch an infestation the better—termite treatment cost is a lot easier to bear than the cost of repairing the damage those termites do.

Where Termites Can Be a Problem

Unfortunately, the answer is: everywhere. Termites are all over the world and can also be found throughout the United States. They can also be an issue in dwellings that wouldn’t seem intuitively at risk. Too many homeowners assume they’re not at risk because their house is made of brick and concrete, topped by asphalt shingles. But termites will eat anything made of cellulose. That includes drywall, wallpaper, and any wooden framing supporting that brick and concrete, as well as wooden furniture.

The Signs of a Termite Infestation

Termite infestations cost billions a year in damage for two primary reasons: the vast distribution and proliferation of the insects, and because infestations are tough to catch early. The earlier the better, and cheaper, so be on the lookout for the following:

· Termite swarms, which are made up of winged “swarmers,” are signs that termites are searching for somewhere to create a new colony.

· Piles of shed termite wings in or around your home.

· Termite dropping, sometimes mixed with sawdust, called “frass,” which can look just like little piles of sawdust.

· Light clicking sounds inside drywall or wood.

· Wood that sounds hollow when tapped.

· Bubbling paint or localized water damage can be caused by moisture related to an infestation.

· Termite activity on exterior wooden house features.

· Seeing termite damage to the wood near your home.

· Mud tubes built from the ground up on or to your house are a virtual guarantee of termite infestation.

· Termites emerging from a crack, flying, or crawling in your home.

Getting Professional Help

If you see any of the above signs or otherwise suspect a termite infestation on your property, get professional help immediately. Caught early enough, the termite control cost is going to prove a fraction of what it costs to repair termite damage later. If you’re unsure whether or not what you’re seeing indicates termite damage, get a termite inspection. Even if the inspection turns up false, learning the risks of infestation, potential trouble spots on your property, and the opportunity for a quote on a preventative treatment is great information to have. Good luck, and remain vigilant to prevent termite damage to your home!

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Original Source: http://bit.ly/373n8Ft