Massachusetts is no stranger to wood-eating pests, including destructive species like the eastern subterranean termite. It doesn’t take much for these dangerous insects to infest, especially under optimal conditions (including high heat, high moisture, and wood rot).
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to control eastern subterranean termites once they’ve become established. Any amount of food – from 2x4s to landscape mulch – could allow invaders to survive.
If termite control in Massachusetts feels overwhelming to you, you’re in the right place. This guide explains everything you should know about termite control strategies, including how to recognize them, why they infest, and how to prevent infestations from occurring in your home.
Looking for professional termite control in Massachusetts? We also explain how Big Blue Bug Solutions can help.
Now, let’s dive into the first thing you should know about termites: how they inflict damage on homes and businesses.
Recognizing Termite Damage On Your Property
It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the many side effects of termites. Not only does this help you identify problems early, but you can also stop invasions before they put down roots.
You should keep an eye out for the signs of termites, including:
- Mud tunnels around your walls and basement
- Shed wings near doors, windows, and other entry points
- Windows and doors that are difficult to open or close
- Hollowing-sounding wood when tapped
- Drooping walls and ceilings
Keep in mind not every termite infestation comes with obvious symptoms. Unfortunately, some termite populations are more difficult to identify, especially during their earliest stages.
Fortunately, you can rely on the team at Big Blue Bug Solutions to identify termites fast. We are available 24/7, 365, to chat about your situation.
Why Termites Infest Wooden Structures
Termites don’t just live inside wood – they must feed on it to survive. Termites gain access to wood in several different ways. In the wild, they feed on fallen logs, rotting stumps, and other decomposing wood. Inside homes and businesses, however, they feed on wood close to the soil, beams with water damage, or even the undersides of your subfloor.
It only takes a very small entry point to let swarms of termites inside. During the spring, when sexually mature alates begin to fly, an open door or a gap in your window mesh may allow dozens of pests inside.
Thankfully, it’s possible to avoid the worst of the termite season with the help of termite prevention tips.
Let’s take a look at some options below so you can make informed decisions.
Prevention Is Key: How To Remove Factors That Attract Termites
Termite damages cost U.S. homeowners more than five billion dollars in damages per year.
Thankfully, prevention is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk for infestation.
We recommend:
- Sealing cracks and gaps, especially around your foundation
- Getting rid of soil-to-wood contact (such as landscape mulch) around the house
- Reducing the amount of humidity in your home with desiccant bags and dehumidifiers
Keep in mind these prevention steps won’t remove active termite swarmers around your property. To control an ongoing infestation, you need professional support from Big Blue Bug Solutions.
Professional Termite Control Offers Lasting Protection For Your Home
Big Blue Bug Solutions is Massachusetts’s favorite provider of quality termite control services. We’ve been serving local properties for more than 80 years and would be honored to serve your property as well.
You can learn more about our approach to termite control by calling our 24/7 hotline. Once we receive some basic information, we can schedule an inspection of your Massachusetts home.