Pest Control In Florida

Controlling Florida Termites Not An Easy Task

So you think you saw something that looks like flying ants? You may have a termite problem and you may need professional help. Florida’s year-round tropical climate is ideal for subterranean termites like the Formosan, which were brought into Florida on Chinese ships about 25 years ago.  Florida is considered a very high risk of termite infestation.  The three principal types of termites in Florida are subterranean and nest in the soil, damp wood, infest damp wood, and dry wood termites, infest dry wood.  Eastern subterranean termites Formosan subterranean termites, Powderpost dry wood termites, Florida damp wood termites.  Termites destroy billions of dollars worth of wooden structures each year.

Control

Controlling termites, including the highly destructive Formosan termite now spreading through Florida and the Southeast, is becoming more problematic.  How can a professional pest control firm help?  When services of an experienced pest control operator are needed, contact at least two or three reputable firms in your area for inspections and estimates for treatment.  Termite control companies are required to provide written contracts before treating for termites and to clearly inform customers as to what type of termites their contract covers subterranean or dry wood, or both.  Pest control companies are legally obligated to abide by the terms of the contract.  The department regulates and licenses pest control companies and conducts regular inspections to ensure the businesses are adhering to the rules and regulations governing pesticides and pest control.  Control measures include reducing the potential infestation, preventing termite entry and applying chemicals for remedial treatment.

Subterranean

Subterranean termites are the most destructive and frequently encountered kind of termite found throughout the state.  Subterranean termites feed on wood or other items that contain cellulose, such as paper, fiberboard, and some fabrics derived from cotton or plant fibers.  Subterranean termite species, such as the Formosan termite, generally live underground.  Subterranean termites must have ground contact or a secondary moisture source in order to live above ground.  Subterranean termites are found in the earth and often move in a file like ants.

Baiting

Homeowners who are strongly opposed to the use of pesticides around their home are good candidates for baits.  Several different baiting systems are now being used by pest management professionals or are commercially available.  It is non-invasive (the baits are odorless and no liquid is involved so the soil remains pesticide-free).  Baits are applied below ground by enticing termites to feed on wooden stakes, cardboard, or some other cellulose-based material.  Baiting requires fewer disruptions than does conventional barrier treatment.  Regardless of which bait is used, the customer must be prepared and willing to accept the possibility of a lengthy baiting process.  Planning, patience, and persistence are requisites for successfully using below ground termite baits. It is best when you see termites swarm or think you may have a problem to call a pest control professinal to explain all the various options

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Florida Pest Control A Pain In The Ants

Carpenter ants are black or brown and measure up to 1″ in length. They are often confused with termites. Unlike termites they have pinched waists and elbowed antennae. Just like termites, there is a winged version too. Carpenter ants are found throughout the country, but are most common in the cool, damp climates like those found in the northern half of the US. These critters can do significant structural damage, but are usually more a nuisance than a structural problem. Carpenter ants are one of the most common, but most difficult of the ants to control. When it comes to remediation, homeowners make the best detectives and should attempt to eliminate carpenter ants themselves.

Investigation

There are several ways to recognize a carpenter ant infestation:

• Swarmers: Winged carpenter ants that swarm are often mistaken for termites. Remember ants have pairs of wings that are of unequal length and a pinched waist. If you see the winged form of ant in any number indoors, you have a problem.

• Sawdust: If you see sawdust raining from your ceiling or from any indoor cracks, you have a problem.

• Ants #1: If you see more than 10 ants a day in any room other than the kitchen, you have a problem.

• Ants #2: If you see ants in your home and the ground outside is frozen, you have a problem.

• Crunching Noise: If you hear munching, rustling or crunching noise coming from within a windowsill, wall or ceiling, you have a problem.

• Galleries: Ants are fastidious. Looking at damaged wood you will find their tunnels are clean and the walls of the tunnels almost look as if they were sandpapered smooth, unlike the messy termite tunnels.

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