Are you hearing scratching in your walls? Are doors and windows not fitting like they used to? You might have a termite problem on your hands. These wood-eating insects are notorious as silent destroyers. They move in and cause catastrophic structural damage while leaving few hints about their activity.

In order to avoid falling victim to their insatiable hunger, it’s important to be able to recognize the warning signs of an impending termite infestation. Subterranean termites are one of the most common species attacking Salem homes. The experts at Kanga Pest Control have put together this handy guide to termite pest control in Salem to help you keep subterranean termites away from your property. Read on to discover the key to successful treatment and prevention.

Why Is It So Hard To Get Rid Of Subterranean Termites?

In the vast majority of cases, a termite problem will require professional treatment. These insects are incredibly elusive, infamous for the extensive property damage they can cause in a shockingly short time span. Oftentimes, an infestation goes unnoticed until the damage has become too substantial to miss. What’s more, termites reproduce incredibly quickly. If even a small colony of subterranean termites has taken root within your walls, you can expect them to explode in population soon enough.

What Does A Termite Infestation Look Like?

Fast and effective termite identification is certainly a challenge, but nevertheless an essential first step towards successful treatment. These wood-eating insects are infamous for their stealthy infiltrations, but with the right knowledge, you can stop subterranean termites from inflicting too much damage. Here are a few of the most common signs of termites in your home:

• Distinctive mud tunnels trailing around your property
• Wood  that sounds hollow when tapped
• Damaged wood
• Sagging walls, suddenly ill-fitting doors, windows, and loose tiles
• Piles of sawdust-like feces littering your property
• Discarded wings from reproductive swarmers

The above signs are more common yet notoriously subtle, but very rarely, you may notice actual termites crawling around. Subterranean termites look like elongated ovals with large heads and prominent mandibles, about 1/8 an inch long, with white exoskeletons. Again, you’ll likely have to rely on the indirect warning signs, but if you do notice any actual termites, contact the pest control professionals immediately.

How Do Subterranean Termites Get Into Homes?

If you’ve spotted any winged termites on your Salem property, you could consider yourself luckier than some. Winged termites are actually how the pests expand their territory, and it’s a glaring warning sign that you should never ignore. Most infestations start when a swarm of winged reproductive termites land near a home and realize the rich abundance of wood available for them to eat. Subterranean termites are also unique in that they often construct tell-tale mud tunnels to protect themselves from the sun while they travel. If you notice the signs of subterranean termites on your Salem property, don’t hesitate to take action – the internal structure of your home depends on it.

Why To Call Kanga About Subterranean Termites

At the end of the day, the fastest and most effective means of termite control will always be to contact the professionals. You’ll need to take action as soon as possible, or else risk your home’s internal structure and any other wood around your property. Termites are truly tenacious, but the experts at Kanga Pest Control are here to help. Whether you’re currently fighting an infestation or just want to guarantee you never have to, our team of certified technicians can take care of everything. Give us a call, and discover the key to effective termite control.