New Orleans Termite Control Archives

Posts Tagged ‘New Orleans Termite Control’

Preventing Termites in New Orleans Homes

Termites are a homeowner’s nightmare, and in New Orleans’ warm, humid climate, these wood-hungry pests thrive. Prevention is key to avoiding the costly damage termites can cause. Follow this guide to protect your home and keep termites at bay.

Understanding Termites in New Orleans

New Orleans is home to two main types of termites:

Subterranean Termites – These termites, especially Formosan subterranean termites, are aggressive and build colonies underground. They enter homes through wood that contacts the soil or through cracks in foundations.
Drywood Termites – These termites infest dry wood and don’t require contact with soil, making attics and wooden furniture their prime targets.

Knowing which termites you’re up against is the first step in preventing an infestation.

10 Proven Ways to Prevent Termite Infestations

1. Keep Wood Away from Soil

Subterranean termites use soil as their base of operations. Avoid stacking firewood, lumber, or wooden materials directly on the ground near your home. Always store wood at least 20 feet away from your house and off the ground if possible.

2. Maintain a Barrier Between Soil and Wood

Use concrete or metal barriers between the soil and wooden portions of your home. For instance:

Install metal flashings or concrete footings under wooden beams.
Ensure at least an 18-inch gap between wooden siding and the ground.

3. Fix Leaks and Moisture Issues

Termites are attracted to moisture, which softens wood and makes it easier for them to chew through. Regularly check and repair:

Roof leaks
Leaky plumbing or pipes
Poor drainage around your home

Make sure gutters are cleaned frequently and direct water away from your foundation.

4. Declutter Your Yard

Termites love dead wood and debris. Keep your yard free of old stumps, fallen branches, or decaying wood. Mulch, while beneficial for landscaping, can also attract termites. Use only a thin layer of mulch and keep it several inches away from your home’s foundation.

5. Seal Cracks and Entry Points

Inspect the foundation of your home for cracks, gaps, or holes that termites could use as entryways. Use a silicone-based sealant to fill these gaps, and ensure all doors, windows, and vents are properly fitted with screens.

6. Schedule Regular Termite Inspections

Preventative measures are more effective when combined with professional oversight. Hire a licensed pest control company in New Orleans to conduct annual or even biannual inspections of your property.

7. Use Pressure-Treated Wood

If your home has wooden structures like fences, decks, or patios, ensure the wood is pressure-treated or sealed to prevent termite activity. Treated wood makes it harder for termites to penetrate and feed.

8. Remove Dead Tree Stumps and Roots

Dead tree stumps and roots are like a buffet for termites. Remove them from your yard, and if part of the tree’s roots remains under the ground, consider fully excavating it to eliminate the risk.

9. Install Physical and Chemical Barriers

Physical Barriers: These include sand or metal mesh layers that prevent termites from tunneling into your home.
Chemical Barriers: Apply liquid termiticides to your home’s foundation and surrounding soil to create a repellent zone. Professional pest control services in New Orleans can apply these treatments safely.

10. Stay Vigilant for Signs of Termites

Here are some warning signs you should never ignore:

Mud Tubes along walls, foundations, or crawl spaces (a hallmark of subterranean termites).
Hollow-sounding wood when tapped.
Swarmers and discarded wings near windows or light fixtures.
Frass, or termite droppings, which look like small pellets and are found near infested areas.

Why Termite Prevention Is Essential in New Orleans

The combination of humidity, warmth, and rainfall in New Orleans makes your home an ideal target for termites. Taking active steps to prevent infestations not only protects your property but also saves you significant time and money in costly repairs.

Remember, early prevention is far easier than addressing a full-blown infestation later.

Partner with the Pros

For comprehensive termite prevention in New Orleans, consider partnering with a professional pest control company. With their expertise and advanced treatments, you can ensure your home remains safe year-round.

Don’t wait for termites to make the first move. Take action today to keep your home protected!

Common Springtime Invaders in New Orleans

Spring in New Orleans has its unmistakable charm—balmy breezes, blooming gardens, and music festivals filling the air with joy. But as the weather warms, it’s not just the flowers and crawfish that start appearing. Many unwanted visitors also make their presence known, invading homes and gardens across the city. From ants to mosquitos and termites, these pests can quickly turn your springtime bliss into a frustrating battle.

This article will explore the most common springtime pests in New Orleans, why they thrive, and—most importantly—how you can effectively deal with them to reclaim your home and yard.

Why Springtime Invaders Are Common in New Orleans

New Orleans’ unique subtropical climate creates a perfect environment for pests. The warm, humid air combined with lush greenery and plenty of standing water means pests, like termites and mosquitos, thrive exceptionally well here. While locals are no strangers to these critters, spring is when most become more active, looking for food, water, or a cozy place to settle in.

1. Ants – Tiny Nuisances Everywhere!

If you’ve lived in New Orleans for a while, you know ants always appear right when the weather starts to warm up. Common species like fire ants, carpenter ants, and sugar ants thrive during spring.

Why they invade: Ants are on the hunt for food and water, which means your kitchen counters, pet food bowls, and even poorly sealed containers can become their buffet tables.
How to deal with them:
- Keep food stored in airtight containers.
- Wipe down surfaces frequently to remove crumbs and spills.
- Use DIY repellents like vinegar-water sprays or opt for ant traps if the infestation persists.
Pro Tip: If you spot carpenter ants, take immediate action. Ignoring them could lead to significant structural damage since they nest in wood.

2. Mosquitos – Spring Brings a Buzz

Mosquitos may as well be unofficial mascots for southern cities like New Orleans. While we deal with them year-round, spring signals their full-on invasion into backyards and outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, New Orleans’ standing water and heat make it mosquito heaven.

Why they invade: This is primarily due to stagnant water in flower pots, gutters, and even puddles, which become breeding grounds for these pests.
How to deal with them:
- Eliminate standing water by regularly checking outdoor spaces.
- Consider planting mosquito-repelling herbs like citronella, rosemary, and lavender.
- For a tech-savvy solution, invest in mosquito traps or foggers designed for yard-wide use.
Safety Tip: Mosquitos are more than annoying—they can spread diseases like West Nile Virus. Keeping them at bay isn’t just a convenience but a health priority.

3. Formidable Termites – The Silent Destroyers

Termites are already a huge issue in New Orleans, and spring is their swarming season. If you notice winged insects flying around your home or discarded wings on window sills, you may be dealing with termites.

Why they invade: Termites swarm to mate during spring, and your wooden structures (or damp conditions) make an inviting new home.
How to deal with them:
- Conduct regular inspections of your home’s wooden components (floors, beams, furniture).
- Seal up cracks in walls and foundation that termites might exploit to gain entry.
- Call a professional pest control service. With termites, early intervention is key to preventing costly structural repairs.
Interesting Stat: Experts suggest that New Orleans has one of the highest levels of termite activity in the country—another reason to stay vigilant!

4. Roaches – Southern Pests on the Move

Spring sends cockroaches into a frenzy, especially the large American cockroaches—often referred to as “palmetto bugs.” These roaches are known for their speed and their habit of darting out at the least convenient times.

Why they invade: The mix of increased warmth and moisture drives these pests into homes, often through sewer systems, cracks, or drainpipes.
How to deal with them:
- Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
- Keep your garbage sealed tightly and take it out regularly.
- Use bait traps, and clear your yard of debris where they might nest.
Pro Tip: Roaches can survive extreme conditions, so aim for long-term mitigation strategies beyond quick fixes.

5. Spiders – Eight-Legged Intruders

Spiders might help control other pests, but for most people, they’re still an unwelcome guest in the house. The warmth of spring ushers them into corners, basements, and attics.

Why they invade: Many spiders enter homes searching for food (smaller insects) and shelter from predators outside.
How to deal with them:
- Vacuum webs frequently and seal gaps along walls and windows.
- Try natural repellents like essential oil sprays made from peppermint or eucalyptus.
- Keep outdoor lights off to avoid attracting flying pests that appeal to spiders.
Good to Know: Only a few species in New Orleans, such as the brown recluse and black widow, are venomous, though they are usually not aggressive unless provoked.

6. Rodents – No Longer Just a Winter Problem

While spring isn’t typically known for rodents, the reality is that many rats and mice begin exploring new spaces after breeding during colder months. New Orleans’ intricate network of streets combined with its damp environment attracts rodents throughout the year.

Why they invade: Rodents look for food resources and nesting materials, often taking advantage of warmer weather to expand their territories.
How to deal with them:
- Seal holes and cracks in your foundation or walls larger than a dime.
- Store food in sealed containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
- Use humane traps, or consult a professional pest control service for ongoing infestations.
Did You Know: Mice and rats can also carry ticks or fleas, adding an extra layer of problems to their already unwelcome presence.

Stay Pest-Free This Spring

Springtime pests are inevitable in New Orleans, but you don’t have to suffer through infestations. Armed with knowledge and the right strategies, you can stay on top of these creepy crawlers.

For persistent issues, it’s always worth consulting a trusted pest control professional to handle tougher infestations. After all, the only guests you want in your home are the ones who leave after a coffee or a crawfish boil—not pests overstaying their welcome.

Here’s to a pest-free spring and all the outdoor adventures (mosquito-free, of course) that come with it!

Common Termite Species Found in New Orleans

Termites may be tiny, but in the warm, humid climate of New Orleans, they can cause massive problems for homeowners and businesses alike. With their ability to silently devour wood structures from the inside out, termites are not pests you want to ignore. Fortunately, J&J Exterminating has the expertise, tools, and solutions to deal with these unwelcome guests.

If you’re worried about termites or wondering what species you might be facing, this guide will walk you through the common termite species in New Orleans, how to identify them, and how we can help protect your home or business.

Why Termites Thrive in New Orleans

New Orleans provides the perfect conditions for termite infestations. Its warm climate, high humidity, and abundant wood structures create an ideal environment for these pests. Combine this with the presence of two particularly destructive species—Formosan and Eastern subterranean termites—and it’s easy to see why termite control is essential for property owners in this city.

Since termites are often out of sight (and, unfortunately, out of mind), knowing the species you’re dealing with is the first step toward effective treatment and prevention.

Most Common Termite Species in New Orleans

Formosan Subterranean Termites

Nickname: The “super termite”

Formosan subterranean termites are some of the most aggressive and destructive termite species in the world—and they’re especially prevalent in New Orleans. Originally from East Asia, these termites have made themselves right at home in the southern United States.

Appearance: Formosan termites are pale yellow or brown and about ½ inch long, including their wings.
Habits: These termites build enormous underground colonies, complete with mud tubes that allow them to travel between their nest and food sources (like your home’s foundation or wood framing). They can also infest trees and live above ground if moisture is available.
Why They’re a Problem: Formosans can cause catastrophic damage in a short time, eating through wood, drywall, and insulation. A single colony can consume over a pound of wood daily!

Eastern Subterranean Termites

Nickname: The “slow and steady destroyers”

Eastern subterranean termites are smaller and less aggressive than their Formosan cousins, but that doesn’t make them any less problematic for New Orleans residents.

Appearance: These termites are smaller than Formosans, usually creamy white or light brown, and measure around ¼ inch in length.
Habits: Like Formosans, Eastern subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel from their underground colonies to their food. They often focus on damp or decaying wood but won’t hesitate to attack sound wood if left unchecked.
Why They’re a Problem: While they don’t consume wood as quickly as Formosans, their colonies can still cause significant structural damage over time if not treated.

Drywood Termites

Nickname: The “hidden invaders”

Unlike the subterranean termites mentioned above, drywood termites don’t need soil or moisture to survive. They infest dry wood, like that found in furniture or roof beams, making them a unique threat.

Appearance: Drywood termites are light brown and slightly larger than subterranean termites, measuring about ⅜ to ½ inch long.
Habits: These termites thrive in undisturbed wood and don’t require contact with soil. They leave behind small piles of droppings (called frass), which resemble coffee grounds or sawdust.
Why They’re a Problem: Drywood termites are harder to detect since they live entirely within the wood they infest. This makes early discovery and treatment especially important.

Signs You May Have a Termite Infestation

Identifying termites early is key to preventing costly repairs. While termites are often elusive, they leave behind telltale signs of their activity, such as:

Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build pencil-thin tubes made of mud to protect themselves as they travel between wood and soil.
Discarded Wings: Reproductive termites, also known as swarmers, shed their wings after mating. You may find these near windows, doors, or light sources.
Hollow-Sounding Wood: If wooden structures or furniture sound hollow when tapped, termites may have eaten through them from the inside.
Frass (Termite Droppings): Drywood termites leave behind small piles of droppings, which look like tiny pellets or mounds of coffee grounds.
Warped or Bubbling Paint: This can indicate moisture buildup caused by termite activity beneath the surface.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to act fast before the infestation worsens.

How J&J Exterminating Can Help

At J&J Exterminating, we understand how stressful termite infestations can be. That’s why we offer comprehensive solutions to identify, eliminate, and prevent termites from infiltrating your property.

1. Free Termite Inspection

Not sure if you have termites? That’s okay—our experts can evaluate your property for free. We’ll carefully inspect both the interior and exterior of your home or business to identify any signs of termite activity.

2. Advanced Treatment Options

Once we’ve identified the species of termite and the extent of the infestation, we’ll recommend a tailored treatment plan. Our methods include:

Liquid Treatments: Applied to soil or wood to create a barrier that kills termites.
Baiting Systems: Strategically placed bait stations attract termites and eliminate entire colonies over time.
Wood Treatments: Specialized products that penetrate wood to kill existing termites and prevent future infestations.

3. Long-Term Prevention

Effective termite control doesn’t stop with treatment. Our team can help you implement preventive strategies, such as:

Keeping woodpiles away from your home.
Fixing leaky pipes and gutters to reduce moisture.
Scheduling regular annual inspections to catch any new activity early.

4. Guaranteed Peace of Mind

We stand by the quality of our work. That’s why we offer guarantees on our termite treatment programs—because your peace of mind matters to us.

Don’t Wait for Termites to Make the First Move

Termites don’t work on your schedule. They infest 24/7, often staying hidden until the damage is severe. If you’re in New Orleans, protecting your property from these destructive pests is non-negotiable.

At J&J Exterminating, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners and businesses safeguard their properties from termites. With decades of experience and state-of-the-art treatments, we’re committed to keeping your property safe and sound.

Contact us today to schedule your free termite inspection. Together, we’ll build a barrier between your home and the termites trying to invade it.

Termite Warning Signs: Swarmers

There are several warning signs to look for if you live in an area at risk for termite infestations. One of these warning signs is the swarmer. In this article, we will cover swarmers and everything you need to know about them.

How threatening is a swarmer?

Swarmers are winged termites of the reproductive caste. They are spawned by the queen when the colony reaches a certain level of maturity, and they fly out in the hundreds or thousands to mate and start new colonies. Most of these swarmers will die without ever achieving their goals, and most young colonies will not survive until the first batch of workers is spawned. However, a handful will get past this initial hurdle and build lasting colonies.

So, if you see swarmers flying around outside your home, odds are they will not be able to start a colony. However, it is a warning sign that there is a mature colony nearby, and this colony could be infesting your home.

The only real cause for concern is when you find swarmers inside the home. These swarmers were likely spawned by a colony infesting your home, and it is a strong indication that you need to contact a pest control professional.

What to do if you find termite swarmers on your property

Outdoor swarmers are not a reliable indicator of whether there is an infestation in the home, but if you live in an area where you routinely see swarmers outside, you could benefit from a routine inspection schedule on an ongoing, yearly basis. In this case, you likely live in an area with large termite populations, and your home is at higher risk of infestation.

If you notice swarmers or piles of insect wings inside your home, you need to contact a pest control professional as soon as possible. A pro will come over, perform an inspection to determine the species and extent of the infestation, and then recommend a course of action based on the specific details of your situation.

You can also keep an eye out for other signs of a termite infestation if you see swarmers, signs such as wood damage, mud tubes, and exit holes in the various wooden surfaces inside your home.

For more information about termite swarmers and the threats they pose, or if you require professional termite control services, please do not hesitate to contact us today.

Termites Caused An Infested Tree To Fall Over And Land On A Pest Control Professional’s Van

Formosan termites may not be able to tolerate the relatively dry and temperate climate that exists beyond America’s most southeastern states, but these termites are far more destructive than the widely distributed eastern subterranean termites. Unlike eastern subterranean termites, which live in colonies that contain around 50,000 individual termites, Formosan subterranean termite colonies can contain several million individual termites. Formosan termites thrive in balmy, wet and humid conditions, which is why they are particularly problematic in the city of New Orleans. Formosan termites were first discovered in New Orleans during the 1960s, but they did not become major pests to structures until a decade or so later. By the 1990s, residents of New Orleans had, sadly, become used to Formosan termites destroying some of the city’s more notable historical buildings, and modern residential homes were also under constant threat from the destructive insects. Despite being familiar with the destructive impact that Formosan termites had on homes, residents of 1990s New Orleans were just becoming aware of how the termites had been destroying the city’s beloved trees.

One of the most notable events that helped to catalyze public awareness concerning the widespread devastation to trees in the city occurred in the summer of 1996, when a pest control professional visited a house that had been infested with termites. While inspecting the home, the pest control operator heard a loud crash outside. Once the operator looked outside to find the source of the loud crash, he noticed that one of the city’s many treasured oak trees had fallen apart, causing a large branch to land on his company van. While inspecting the damage, it became clear that the pest control company’s van had been rendered inoperable, but the fractured tree appeared to be undamaged. Later on, a more thorough inspection of the damage revealed that the oak tree had been hollowed out by Formosan termites. This discovery came as a bit of a surprise to both the city’s pest control professionals and the general public, as no termite species in America had been known to consume seemingly healthy trees in such a thorough manner. Also, residents of New Orlean’s had no way of knowing that the city’s trees had fallen victim to extensive and long-running termite infestations, as Formosan termites tunnel through the internal parts of a tree by first accessing the routes. This makes Formosan termite infestations in trees invisible, until they fall over of course.

Before the well publicized incident involving the damaged pest control van occurred in 1996, the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 brought the extent of Formosan termite damage to New Orlean’s trees to public attention for the first time. Experts found that a whopping 60 percent of the oak trees brought down by hurricane winds had already been weakened by termite infestations. The amount of termite damaged trees that had been found following the hurricane shocked the people of New Orleans who had not been aware of the existence of termites that infest trees. In between the 90s and today, several studies have confirmed that Formosan termite activity contributes to tree-loss during hurricanes. Following the hurricane in 1992 and the “van incident” in 1996, the USDA initiated an Formosan termite eradication program within New Orleans’ French Quarter in 1998. This program cost taxpayers 70 million dollars and lasted for 13 years.

Have you seen first hand evidence of the degree of tree damage and destruction caused by Formosan subterranean termites in New Orleans?