Rose Pest Solutions encourages public awareness of termite signs during the spring season.

MARCH 13-19 IS TERMITE AWARENESS WEEK

Michigan, Ohio and Indiana (3/13/2016) – As spring quickly approaches, termites will emerge and begin feasting on vulnerable homes across the country. To spread public awareness about termites, Rose Pest Solutions and the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) will be celebrating the fifth annual Termite Awareness Week, March 13-19, 2016. Rose Pest Solutions is proud to participate in this annual observance by educating homeowners on termite prevention, detection and treatment.

Termites are known as “silent destroyers” due to their constant gnawing and ability to chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected. Termites can feed 24-hours a day, seven days a week and according to the NPMA, cause more than $5 billion in property damage each year – an expense typically not covered by homeowners insurance.

“As temperatures increase, termites emerge in search of mates and suitable spots to create new colonies,” said Barb Craig, Rose Pest Solutions. “Unfortunately, termites can be difficult to spot with the naked eye. Termites are most likely to cause problems in the upper midwest this spring, so homeowners should remain vigilant and routinely inspect the foundation of the home for signs of termites, including mud tubes and soft wood that sounds hollow when tapped.”

Signs that termites may be present in a home:

1. Mud tubes (used by termites to reach a food source) on the exterior of the home.

2. Soft wood in the home that sounds hollow when tapped.

3. Darkening or blistering of wood structures.

4. Cracked or bubbling paint.

5. Small piles of feces that resemble sawdust near a termite nest.

6. Discarded wings near doors or on windowsills, indicating swarmers have entered the home or swarmers themselves, which are often mistaken for flying ants.

“Homeowners who notice signs of these wood-destroying pests in and around their property should contact a pest professional who can best determine the extent of the problem and recommend a proper treatment plan,” added Craig.