Many years ago, the U.S. Forest Service created a national map, based upon scientific studies, called the Termite Infestation Probability Zones Map. The country was divided into zones, and each zone was evaluated for the probability of termite hazards. Florida was placed in the “very high” zone, meaning it is likely that termite infestations will occur in the state. More than $500 million per year is spent on eradicating termites and repairing their damage across the state. It’s important for Florida residents to have yearly inspections for termites by a reputable pest control specialist, and if an infestation is discovered, discuss available options for termite control methods in Jacksonville, FL. There are numerous misconceptions about termites and the treatment used to get rid of them. One of the misconceptions is that termites can eat through concrete. Even though termites are voracious eaters, devouring food sources for 24 hours a day, every day, they don’t eat concrete. Termites make use of tiny cracks in the concrete to travel to and from food sources, which makes the cracks larger. Here are some additional misconceptions. Wood Piles as Deterrents Some people believe that piling wood and scraps around the yard will keep termites away from the house. This is untrue. Scrap wood and woodpiles will actually increase termite populations, making your home more vulnerable to infestation. Carpenter Ants Kill Termites Both termites and carpenter ants eat the same food—moisture-damaged wood—but not each other. Carpenter ant and termite infestations are often found in the same home. Termites Are Southern The only state that doesn’t have to worry about termites is Alaska. Subterranean termites live in all parts of the country and in Canada, but are much more prevalent in the mid-western and southern regions. Fumigating Ends Infestations With termites, treatment of the soil is also required. Fumigation may make the termites disappear for a while, but they’ll be back unless the soil around the structure was also treated. Power Failures This is not a misconception, unfortunately. One type of termite found in Florida, the Formosan termite, is known to eat electrical cabling. Frayed electrical cables are a fire hazard, so it is important to have your home inspected yearly. Do-it-yourself methods of pest control may slow down the issue temporarily but not permanently, which can lead to further structural damage. A licensed pest control specialist can discuss the available termite control methods in Jacksonville, FL.
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