Each year in the United States, the need for termite control is a big one. That’s because termites are responsible for billions of dollars in damage – not to mention tons of emotional strain. If you do wind up with a termite problem, you’ll need an expert who specializes specifically in termite control.

But how do you know if you have a termite infestation?

You may not at first.

You may see symptoms instead – like little piles of wood shavings. That’s because termites mostly feed on wood. They can also feed on paper, books, and insulation. You may also see a winged termite or two.

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And, unfortunately, termite colonies can gather at any time of year. But be sure to keep a particularly watchful eye during the spring. That’s when colonies grow and thrive the most – making it the prime season for home infestations.

Once you’ve determined it’s termites, you have to act fast. You could decide to take termite control into your own hands, but termites are really good at what they do – and the damage they cause can be so extensive that you will likely need the services of an expert.

How much does termite control cost?

The money you spend will depend on the method you choose for getting rid of your uninvited guests.

One method involves using professionally-applied liquid termiticides. Linear feet mostly determine the quantity required for the job – and usually, you can expect to pay between $4.50 and $7.50 per linear foot. A pro will also use the number of square feet in your home and the depth of your foundation to come up with a cost.

Another way to get handle termite control is through baiting. This method is usually more expensive than using liquid termiticides. Baiting is also determined by measuring linear foot and the depth of your home’s foundation.

Yet another method of getting rid of termites is one that you’ve probably seen before – tent fumigation. The cost for this practice runs about $30 to $45 per thousand cubic feet.

Another cost to consider? The value of your home. If your home is infested with termites, it won’t be nearly as valuable as it would if it were termite-free.

Unfortunately, one cost of termite control can’t be measured – the psychological costs of suffering through all of the damage.

How can you prevent termites?

A big part of termite control is keeping them out in the first place. But to do it, you need to know how these critters operate.

Termites enter homes on the lower floors. They’ll start in your yard, munching on any mulch that you have because it provides two things – moisture and protection from the elements. Once inside, termites will work their way up to higher floors, eating things like foam insulation and plaster board along the way.

So, what can you do to stop them?

- Keep the siding and wooden parts of the home at least 6 inches above where the home comes into contact with the soil and mulch.

- Get rid of any dead trees, roots, and stumps near your home. And, consider getting rid of your mulch altogether if you really want to be safe.

- Keep any firewood, paper, and lumber out of your crawl space.

- Dispose of any foam boards and wood debris

- Since termites need water to survive, fix any leaky faucets, pipes and air conditioning units, and keep your plants at least 3 or 4 feet away from your home’s foundation. Also, install trellises away from your home.

- If you have a crawl space, be sure to cross ventilate and get rid of any vegetation that has sprouted in it.

- Because there will almost surely be crevices you can’t see – but that will allow termites to enter your home – check regularly for cracks in your cement slabs.

Termite control may seem daunting, and it definitely isn’t a simple job. But if you should find yourself with termites, don’t panic. By understanding how termites operate – and coordinating your plan of attack with a professional – you can reclaim your home!

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