Baton Rouge, La. (May 10, 2021) – While termites are active year round, most types of underground termites tend to swarm here in Louisiana during the spring and summer months. Because of this, Louisiana Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Mike Strain, DVM, is reminding property owners to remain vigilant and protect their property.
“We have a humid climate, especially at this time of year, and termite colonies are constantly looking for new sources of food. Now is the time to take proactive steps to prevent termites from ruining your investments, ”added Strain.
Strain offers these tips to help protect properties:
Fix any leaks in the roof, pipes and outside water taps in your house.
Turn off the outside lights at night or use yellow lightbulbs to avoid attracting swarms of termites.
Repair decaying wood on facades, soffits and wooden surfaces outdoors.
Pick up wood lying on the floor under and around your house.
Store firewood outside your home.
Clean the gutters of your home and repair any damaged sections.
Cut branches and vines that may grow on your home.
Do not let water flow next to the slab or under your house. Drain the water.
Most importantly, you only use licensed and certified pest control experts for termite treatments.
In between professional inspections, property owners should look out for: mud pipes on slabs, pillars, or walls and pinholes in wall panels, softness in flooring, or bubbles in paint or wallpaper.
Consumers can contact the LDAF at 225-925-4578 to find out which companies are certified and licensed. Treatments and annual inspections by a licensed, insured, and affiliated pest control company are great prevention against termites.
Further information can be found on the LDAF website at www.ldaf.state.la.us.
