Like most Americans, your home is likely your largest investment, so as a homeowner, the most important thing you can do to protect that investment is know what immediate dangers are lurking within the borders of your property. While there’s nothing you can do to prevent natural disasters, you can take preventive measures against pests by contacting a company that handles pest control Valdosta GA. First, you need to be able to identify pests.
Termites
Wood is the most common material used to build houses and is also an edible delight to many insects, including termites. Estimates show the damage caused by termites each year is in the billions. Often confused with ants, termites are easily identifiable by the structure of their wings: a double pair of equal-sized wings on each side of their body. During warm seasons, when the wet weather has passed, they swarm.
When building a new house, take preventive measures against termites by building your home on a concrete foundation and ensuring your property has proper grading and drainage. Trees and shrubs shouldn’t touch exposed wood on your home, as termites thrive in a moist environment.
Fire Ants
There are many species of ants, but none is as dangerous to your well-being as the fire ant. Not only do they destroy your lawn, but if you have children or pets, for their safety you will need to enlist help for fire ant control. These aggressive insects swarm when their home is disturbed by unsuspecting gardeners, children and pets.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants enter your home by the lure of food and sugar. These larger black ants will take residence by burrowing into the wood of your house, and they rival termites in their destructive capabilities.
Be on the lookout for these common pests as you maintain your home. Being able to identify these invaders could save not only thousands of dollars, but in the case of fire ants, your physical health as well.
