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Swarming Termites Return To Louisiana. Here's How To Keep Pests Away From Your House.
Picture this: You're outside on a warm spring evening, enjoying the Louisiana sunset after a short rain shower. Then, as the street lights kick on, you start to notice a swarm of small bugs surround the lamp posts, growing larger and larger.
That scene is becoming a more frequent reality for residents across New Orleans and other parts of south Louisiana as termite season kicks into full gear.
The Formosan termite season in the South begins in April, though swarms really start to ramp up in early May. You'll likely begin to notice an increase in swarms at night, especially around porch and street lights.
They'll continue to swarm through the end of June and are more likely to appear following heavy rains, when temperatures are near 80 degrees and when winds are below 5 mph.
Termites a gross sight to see on your evening walk, but they're also an invasive species and the most destructive structural pest in Louisiana, according to the LSU AgCenter.
Here are a few facts about termites in Louisiana and how you can keep them at bay.
Where did Formosan termites come from?Formosan termites are native to East Asia. They arrived in the U.S. Near the end of World War II aboard packing crate wood used to transport equipment.
Some of those termite-infested crates were buried at spots in port cities like New Orleans and Lake Charles, including at Camp Leroy Johnson, which sits across the Industrial Canal from Lakefront Airport on the Lake Pontchartrain shoreline.
Since then, the insects have expanded their range through their own swarming or by human beings moving infested wood to new locations. They are now found in 42 of the state's 64 parishes, according to the LSU Ag Center.
Why do they cause so much damage?Formosan termite alates, the reproductive form of the insect, crawl from a crevice in an apartment in the French Quarter in anticipation of flying to create a new nest, in this 2001 photo. (File photo by Scott Threlkeld)
File photoAs a more aggressive species of termites, Formosan subterranean termites, known by their scientific name Coptotermes formosanus, have been able to mostly push out the native termite species, known as Reticulitermes flavipes.
Formosan nests often have as many as 10 million individual insects, while natives rarely have nests larger than 1 million. This means Formosans are able to cause a lot more damage in a lot less time, the LSU Ag Center says.
Native termites also must have a direct connection to underground sources of water. Meanwhile, Formosans can survive in nests located above ground, in trees, walls and roofs, as long as there is cellulose (wood) and water around.
Formosans depend on eating the wood material to survive. When looking for cellulose to eat, the termites can chew through materials such as thin sheets of soft metals, plastics, rubbers, stucco, styrene, seals on water lines and even electrical cabling.
Termites are also known to carve tubes from their nests to connect them to food source, hallowing out structures. Because these rarely break through the surface, the damage usually isn't detected until something giving way, according to LSU Ag.
How can I keep them from swarming around my house?Termite "swarmers," the ones you see bundled together in big groups, are winged adults that fly out of the nest to look for a mate.
They can only fly about 300 yards and use the light of the moon to go as far as possible from their original nest.
This is why termites are attracted to streetlights and lights in homes and other buildings. So to keep them away when they're swarming, turn off your outside lights and close your drapes.
If you see swarmers outdoors, LSU Ag Center says, it means an infestation of termites on the nearby trees or structures.
What should I do if I see termites in my home?Frank Digiovanni checks a sticky trap in front of Jackson Square for formosan termites as members of New Orleans Mosquito, Termite, and Rodent Control monitor activity on Thursday, May 1, 2014. (Michael DeMocker, Nola.Com / The Times-Picayune)
Michael DeMockerIt's normal for a few of the swarmer termites to enter your home through vents, cracks in windows or door frames following a large swarm.
However if you find groups of termites flying indoors, a large number of wings on your floor, or termites are actually crawling out of a hole in your wall, it's likely you have an infestation. Call a qualified pest control company, preferably one with an entomologist, also known as a bug doctor.
You can clean up the termites and wings and throw them in the trash, but be sure to us a closed plastic bag to assure they're all going to be dead.
Before a pest control company arrives, locate the area where the termites are entering your home.
Once an exterminator arrives, they'll inspect your home and propose a course of action, whether it be liquid termiticides, modern bait systems or other pesticides. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry regulates pest control operators, so feel free to check their credentials.
Ensure that any agreement you sign includes clear language describing guarantees for retreatment or repair if the treatments do not work.
How can I keep my house safe ahead of time?Here's a few tips for keeping termites at bay, from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:
Fill in any cracks that could offer termites access to your home, especially around cement foundation or where utilities meet the wall
Fix leaks immediately
Keep vents free from blockage, including plants
Don't plant trees and shrubs too close to your home
Don't allow trees or shrubs to grow against exposed wood surfaces
Avoid piling or storing firewood or wood debris next to the house
The Best Termite Control Companies Of May 2024
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A termite infestation is every homeowner's nightmare. These small but mighty insects feed on wood and other dead plant matter, making them dangerous to a home's internal structure. Homeowners with termite damage will spend an estimated $3,000 to repair their homes. What do termites look like? They may be easily confused for ants, but soft bodies and straight antennae are key in identifying them.
It's critical for homeowners to hire the best termite control company that can effectively rid their property of termites at an affordable price. For homeowners searching for the best termite control companies in their area, we've compiled a list of our top picks.
As homeowners search for "best termite control companies near me," they'll want to consider factors like experience, scheduling availability, and the methods used. Below are considerations for homeowners looking for the right company to help with their pest control needs.
Service AreaBecause many termite control companies are also some of the best pest control companies, homeowners will want to confirm the company has extensive experience with the services they need. There are many different species of termites—roughly 2,000 of them—so it's important that the termite company selected knows how to handle a homeowner's specific situation.
When browsing through the list of termite protection companies, homeowners will want to take note of each company's service range and area, as not all companies offer services in every state.
Inspection and Quote ProcessHomeowners will want to consider the inspection and quote process of a company when searching for the best termite companies. Generally, a company will offer a home inspection for free; from there, customers will receive a quote for the services.
A good termite company will prepare customers in advance so they can understand the services they will be receiving and the expected cost of a termite inspection. A customer should come away from the inspection with a diagnosis of their problem and the necessary next steps—including treatment options, prices, and a timeline.
Scheduling and Recurring VisitsAlthough one treatment is usually sufficient, an infestation may require multiple visits from a termite control company to ensure the termites have been eradicated. Therefore, when homeowners are determining if a company fits their needs, they will want to consider how the company handles scheduling follow-up and recurring visits.
Many companies offer the option for homeowners to set up a schedule where treatments are routinely administered as a preventive measure to avoid additional infestations. Some companies allow homeowners to schedule visits online, while others require a phone call.
When booking, homeowners will also want to consider the company's availability, as the longer they wait to take care of a pest infestation, the worse the situation will get.
Insurance, Certification, and LicensingBefore hiring a termite control company, homeowners will want to confirm its technicians are licensed and that the company is bonded and insured. This information is generally available on a company's website or by request. According to the EPA, each company is required to have at least one certified and licensed commercial pesticide applicator.
Any reputable company will carry insurance and licensing, as it protects both the company and the homeowner if something goes wrong when a homeowner obtains services. When misused, pesticides can cause harm to a family, home, and surrounding environment, so it's wise to choose a company that carries the proper protection and has plenty of experience to show via customer reviews and referrals.
GuaranteesWhen looking for the best termite treatment company to help with an infestation, homeowners will want to find a company that guarantees its work. While every homeowner hopes their pest problem will be taken care of in one visit, sometimes pests do return. A good termite company will stand by its work and re-treat a home without cost should termites be spotted after the initial treatment. Guarantees can range from a 30-day window to 6 months—or even longer.
Customer SupportBecause problems can arise unexpectedly, companies need to have a great customer support system so any concerns can be addressed and resolved quickly. Homeowners looking for the best company to treat termites will want to look for those that offer an elevated level of customer service.
At-a-Glance Comparison Service Area Scheduling Certifications Guarantee Customer Support Terminix 45 states and Washington, D.C. Online, phone State and locally certified Free re-treatment for termite- plan subscribers Phone, text, live chat Ehrlich Pest Control 19 states and Washington, D.C. Phone National Pest Management Association GreenPro, state and locally certified Customer satisfaction guarantee Phone (24/7), live chat Arrow Exterminators 12 states Phone National Pest Management Association QualityPro, state and locally certified Customer satisfaction guarantee Phone, email Orkin 49 states and Washington, D.C. Online, phone National Pest Management Association QualityPro, state and locally certified 30-day money-back guarantee Phone (24/7) Our Top PicksHere are the best termite control companies available nationwide to tackle any termite infestation, no matter the size and scope.
See ItWhy It Made the Cut: Terminix offers multiple termite treatment plans, easy scheduling, and free re-treatments, allowing homeowners to deal with their termite problem promptly and with minimal stress.
Terminix is a U.S.-based company with easy online and phone scheduling options. As the name suggests, Terminix started out focusing exclusively on termites before adding other pest control to its list of services. Customers can schedule inspections or services with Terminix easily online. After providing their address and contact information, the customer can choose an appointment time from a range of available dates and select the plan they're interested in.
There are three termite treatment plans for customers to choose from, each one starting with a free termite inspection. The Basic plan also includes the placement of bait stations around the home and guaranteed re-treatment if termites reappear after the initial visit. The Advanced plan adds an extra layer by including the Nix & Fix guarantee, which covers both re-treatment as needed and repairs for any new termite damage incurred between visits, up to $250,000. Customers will want to note that Terminix's guarantees may not be available in all geographic areas, so they'll want to check the exact terms when hiring Terminix to make sure they apply.
The most comprehensive plan Terminix offers is the Premium plan, which adds ongoing pest control to the Advanced plan to help customers keep their home free of pests. This plan covers 13 of the most common household pests, including rodents, cockroaches, ants, silverfish, and spiders.
Homeowners who live in areas with drywood termites (including California, Florida, and Hawaii) can opt for Terminix's exclusive drywood treatment. Drywood termites are harder to detect than other termite species as they nest directly in wood and don't leave trails like other types of termites. Terminix uses a proactive approach to help homeowners prevent drywood termites from entering their home in the first place.
SpecsWhy It Made the Cut: Ehrlich Pest Control specialists have an average of 8 years of termite treatment experience, and the company holds a National Pest Management Association GreenPro accreditation, which speaks to its commitment to environmental responsibility.
Ehrlich Pest Control prides itself on the experience of its employees, who have an average of 8 years treating termites, with many technicians having 15 to 25 years of experience in the field. Technicians undergo rigorous training and receive continued support throughout their career, from their first day onward. All Ehrlich technicians are required to earn their state applicator's license within the first year of employment. They are also required to earn eight certified continuing education units each year, and specialists must complete an annual competency test to help them retain the skills they learn throughout their training. While Ehrlich's locations are mainly limited to the East Coast, homeowners within its service area will appreciate hiring a company that puts so much energy into maintaining a qualified and knowledgeable workforce.
The company also has a GreenPro certification from the National Pest Management Association. This certification confirms the company's commitment to environmentally responsible practices and gives homeowners more peace of mind that any treatment for termites or other pests will not put the health of themselves, their family, or their pets at significant risk.
Finally, Ehrlich's services come with a transferable warranty. Therefore, if a customer sells their home, the warranty will transfer to the new owners, which could be an additional selling point homeowners can highlight when listing their homes.
SpecsWhy It Made the Cut: Arrow Exterminators offers sustainable and effective termite management, treatment, and prevention with industry-leading standards and eco-friendly options.
Arrow Exterminators is a top choice for homeowners who prioritize environmental concerns but don't want to sacrifice efficacy. The company demonstrates its commitment to the environment with its Sustainability Through Environmental Practices and Solutions (STEPS) program—a company-wide initiative that marks a resolution to use pesticides judiciously and responsibly. This program, which was introduced in 2009, was the first of its kind in the industry. Arrow Exterminators also has two notable accreditations from the National Pest Management Association. The GreenPro accreditation demonstrates Arrow Exterminators' commitment to performing pest control services that pose the least risk to people, property, and the environment. The company is also QualityPro accredited, which signifies its high standards, training, and expertise.
Arrow Exterminators has locations in 12 states, which means some customers won't have the option to hire this company for their termite control needs. However, Arrow's branches are mainly located in the Southeastern U.S., which is the area with the highest risk for termites, making it an invaluable resource for homeowners in these states. Customer support may be limited, with Arrow Exterminators claiming a relatively slow 1- to 2-day turnaround for responses to email inquiries and no 24/7 support available. However, the company offers a unique, industry-leading baiting system, known as the Sentricon System, to rid homes of termites—the same one that's used at the White House and the Statue of Liberty. This system is designed to spread through the termite population to wipe out an entire colony, whereas traditional liquid-bait systems can be circumvented by termites. Customers who opt for Arrow Exterminators can therefore feel confident that their termite infestation will be handled quickly and effectively.
SpecsWhy It Made the Cut: Orkin is a widely utilized and sought-out pest management company with high standards of training and employee expertise.
With more than 400 branches across the country, Orkin offers personalized plans tailored to a home's specific situation and unique needs. The company offers 24/7 support via phone, though there's no option to get support through email or online, which some may find limiting. However, Orkin boasts a robust training program and has been recognized multiple times in Training Magazine's Top 125 list and has been picked as one of the Editor's Choice honorees. Orkin's team members are among the top in the industry, and all technicians receive the same quality training—160 hours in total—no matter their location through a live virtual classroom called Orkin TV. Orkin also has its own state-of-the-art training facility, where employees receive hands-on training in simulated environments to prepare them for real-life situations.
Orkin offers free termite inspections, though rates for treatment aren't available until after the inspection has been scheduled. Some customers may find that rates are on the higher end of the spectrum, though. Orkin has a National Pest Management Association QualityPro accreditation, which requires each company to meet 18 standards for professionalism, including maintaining a drug-free workplace and conducting background checks on all employees. This accreditation can help assure homeowners that Orkin will take care of their pest problem with the highest level of professionalism.
SpecsTerminix is our pick as one of the best termite treatment companies because it's readily available and well-known nationwide. The company has dedicated information and services for termite treatment that demonstrate a high level of concern and expertise. Our runner-up, Ehrlich Pest Control, was selected because of its demonstrated expertise, robust training program, and transferable warranty.
How We Chose the Best Termite Control CompaniesWhen choosing the best termite control companies, we conducted an extensive search for companies that would be widely accessible for homeowners in need of quick assistance. Terminix and Orkin both caught our attention for the number of locations spread across the country—over 300 and 400, respectively. Next, we sought out an eco-friendly option for homeowners hesitant about the effects certain chemicals have on their homes and surrounding property. Arrow Exterminators' STEPS program fits the bill. Finally, we focused on companies experienced enough to deal with each homeowner's unique situation, making Ehrlich's focus on experienced technicians a large contributing factor to making it our runner-up choice.
Before You Hire One of the Best Termite Control CompaniesBefore hiring one of the best termite companies, homeowners will want to consider their unique situations. If a home is not yet showing signs of an infestation, there may be options to perform preventive maintenance including utilizing one of the best termite treatments for DIY use.
Additionally, homeowners will want to do their research and ensure the termite control company they employ will follow proper procedures and fumigation processes to ensure the property and home will not be adversely affected by any termite-killing chemical measures. This includes creating a tight tent seal to ensure sulfuryl fluoride (a chemical often used for termite control) doesn't leak out of the affected area. Homeowners will also want to consider protecting carpets and upholstery, as these items can hold on to chemicals for weeks after fumigation.
The Cost of Hiring One of the Best Termite Control CompaniesThe cost of termite treatment depends on a few factors, including how large the infestation is and how long the termites have been present inside the home. If a homeowner calls a termite control company as soon as they see signs of infestation, the cost could be under $200. However, full-blown termite infestations can cost upwards of $2,500 to treat. The average homeowner will pay between $221 and $916 as the cost for termite treatment. Prevention is the best bet for homes, especially those in the southern states where termite infestations are more prevalent.
The Advantages of Using the Best Termite Control Company for YouAccording to the EPA, termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage each year in the U.S., with property owners spending around $2 billion on termite treatment. Termite damage repair costs an average of $1,800, with more severe damage reaching or exceeding $3,000.. The severity of the damage will depend on the type of termite present in the home. Some subterranean termite colonies, for example, can house millions of termites. However, it can just take a few thousand termites chewing through a wooden beam to seriously compromise the internal structure of a home.
It's best to hire a professional termite control company immediately upon seeing any signs of termite damage. Homeowners who recently moved into a home or are renovating will want to ask a termite control company to help with preventive maintenance. A termite control company has the experience and knowledge to effectively rid a home of termites so homeowners won't have to worry about a re-infestation.
To help homeowners decide which termite control company is best for them, here are a few frequently asked questions and answers.
Q. How long does a termite treatment last?The average termite treatment lasts around 5 years. Liquid termite treatments may last over 5 years, while termite bait stations last about 1 year and need to be annually renewed.
Q. Can termites go through concrete?No, termites cannot eat through concrete. However, concrete will settle and create cracks where termites can make their way through to wood in a home. Termite damage looks different depending on the type of termite.
Q. How can I tell if I have termites in my wall?There are a few telltale signs of termite damage to a wall including small holes, bubbling paint, faint lines throughout drywall, and a hollow sound when tapping on the wall. A professional termite inspection can confirm the presence of termites.
Q. Is monthly termite control necessary?Most termite treatments will last around 5 years. However, routine home inspections and preventive maintenance are the best tools against a full-blown termite infestation. Depending on the type of treatment used, homeowners should hire a company for annual or biannual inspections.
Q. What is the best termite company?Terminix is our choice for the best termite exterminator, but any companies on this list are highly rated choices for homeowners. For example, customers may want to compare Orkin vs. Terminix or others on this list to determine which is the best company for termite control in their area.
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