Termite infestations can cause significant structural damage and financial losses if not addressed promptly. Each year, termites cause around $40 billion in damage to agricultural resources and lumber each year. In commercial buildings, the risks are even higher due to the complexity of structures, frequent foot traffic, and the need to maintain smooth operations. Knowing how to identify, manage, and prevent termites is crucial to protecting your property and business.
Arceneaux Pest Management Service provides commercial pest control in Baton Rouge. We can handle large-scale environments with unique challenges, such as compliance with health and safety regulations. Let’s learn more about how termite infestations are handled in businesses and public facilities.
Identifying Termite Infestations in Commercial Buildings
Recognizing the early warning signs of a termite infestation can prevent costly repairs and extensive damage. Hiring an expert to conduct regular inspections can help you keep tabs on potential infestations. We know property and business owners have a lot on their plates, so it can be helpful to sign up for annual inspections.
The signs of a termite infestation in a commercial building are:
- Mud tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tunnels along walls or foundations for shelter and moisture.
- Hollow wood or bubbling paint: Tap wood surfaces to detect hollowness, indicating termite-damaged wood.
- Discarded wings: Swamers, or reproductive termites, leave behind wings near windows, doors, or light fixtures.
- Frass (termite droppings): Drywood termites leave behind tiny pellets that resemble sawdust.
- Warping or sagging floors and ceilings: Extensive termite damage can weaken the structure, causing warping.
Immediate Steps to Take When Termites Are Found
If you suspect termites, taking quick action is essential to minimize damage. Start by contacting a pest control company that works with commercial properties. A technician will come to your location, confirm the infestation, and identify the termite species.
While some pests can be handled with do-it-yourself treatments, termites are different. These pests are tricky to eliminate without professional expertise, and improper handling can actually make things worse. Once the technician has completed their inspection, they’ll determine the level of damage and develop a treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Termite Infestations in Commercial Buildings Several professional treatment options are available depending on the severity of the infestation and the type of termites involved. Liquid termiticides include barrier treatments that prevent termites from entering the building. These are applied around the foundation to create a protective zone. Bait stations may also be used to ensure the colony is eliminated over time.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Infestations
After eliminating the infestation, it’s crucial to take preventive measures to protect your commercial building from future termite activity. This includes:
- Scheduling annual termite inspections
- Managing moisture levels by repairing leaky pipes, roofs, or HVAC systems
- Inspecting and seal cracks and gaps in the foundation or walls
- Ensuring no wooden structures are in direct contact with the soil
- Installing termite barriers around the foundation
Schedule Commercial Pest Control in Baton Rouge
Termites are silent destroyers, so it’s essential that you act quickly when you notice signs of their presence. In a commercial building, delays in treatment can lead to structural damage, costly repairs, and regulatory non-compliance. If you suspect termites in your commercial property, don’t wait. Contact Arceneaux Pest Management Service to safeguard your business from further harm. We offer a full suite of termite control services for office buildings, parks, apartment complexes, and more!