Getting Rid of Ground Termites
BY RACHEL BREIT
With more than 50 years of experience, the team of Richard Lee and George W. Ofsonka III at Islander Pest Solutions has the answers to your questions regarding those always-pesky subterranean “ground” termites.
Q: Who needs to be concerned about termites?
A: Considering the damage that feasting termites can have on your home — your largest investment — all homeowners need to be concerned. Don’t be the homeowner who isn’t concerned about this problem until your house is being eaten because, reality is, either you already have termites or sooner or later you will have them. Subterranean “ground” termites numbering in the millions threaten the structural integrity of your home and will lead to costly repairs.
Q: Do these termites leave signs?
A: Yes. Besides seeing the flying termite swarmers, or “alates,” during the spring or even late fall, ground termites create underground tunnels or above-ground mud tubes made of mud, feces or debris, which can usually be found along your exterior foundation wall, floor joists or interior walls. These mud tubes protect them from dehydration as they travel from their nest in the soil to their food source — your home.
Q: How can these termites be contained around my structure?
A: Termites can be controlled in two ways — with a termite baiting system or a “conventional” liquid treatment. Both are lethal and non-detectable by termites — controlling the ground termites through ingestion and contact — but are safe for children and pets.
Q: What is a termite baiting system?
A: Termite baiting systems take advantage of the termites’ natural foraging behavior. Baited stations are placed in the soil around the structure and monitored for termite activity. Station installation requires no drilling (into the concrete that may be around your home), and is suited for homes on hillsides, homes surrounded by concrete or slate tiles, or homes located very close to water. An annually renewable service warranty comes with the termite baiting system.
Q: What is a “conventional” liquid treatment?
A: A liquid treatment involves applying a termiticide mixture by spraying directly on the soil and/or deep into the soil (where termites live) through holes drilled or trenching done along the foundation walls of your home. This creates a continuous treatment zone around the structure.
Q: When should I decide to have my house treated for subterranean “ground” termites?
A: Don’t wait! You should invest in a treatment if you’ve noticed signs of ground termites or even if you haven’t, to prevent them from infesting your home in the future. The liquid termiticide mixture has been proven to remain in the soil and be effective long-term.
Q: Why should I choose Islander Pest Solutions?
A: Although we’ve only been in business since March 2010, we have quickly gained the confidence of many homeowners because of our communication and education before during and after each ground termite treatment. There are many different construction types, so based on our extensive knowledge gained through the years, we develop a treatment plan specifically for your home. We use the best, most effective products and back them up with a six-year ground termite service warranty (which all homes qualify for) or a 10-year ground termite service warranty (restrictions apply).
ISLANDER PEST SOLUTIONS
contact // 487-3936
address // 98-138 Hila Place #12
web // www.islanderpestsolutions.com