Termite Control Toronto

Often associated with warmer climates, you might be surprised to know that termites are a pervasive problem for property owners in Toronto. These small insects can cause significant damage to wooden structures, which can lead to costly repairs. If you suspect that you have a termite infestation, it is important to get an inspection done as soon as possible to determine the right type of termite treatment needed to protect your Toronto property.

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Termites, like other pests, leave behind telltale signs of their presence in your home or business. Some of these indicators might be easier to overlook than others, but the larger the infestation grows, the more likely you are to notice the evidence of termites. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Discarded Wings: Accumulations of tiny, discarded wings can be found near windows, doors, or other access points.
• Mud Tubes: These protective tunnels are often found on exterior walls and provide a pathway for termites between their colony and a food source.
• Hollow-Sounding Wood: Tapping on wooden structures may produce a hollow sound, indicating termite damage within.
• Damaged Wood: Wood that appears to have been chewed on or displays signs of damage can be a result of termite activity.
• Sawdust and Fecal Pellets: Small piles of sawdust or fecal pellets, known as frass, may accumulate as termites consume wood and expel waste.

Potential Concerns When Dealing with Termites

Termites are not known to pose significant health risks to humans. Unlike other insect pests, they do not seek out human activity and are unlikely to bite or swarm. However, they can cause substantial damage to wooden structures in homes and buildings, leading to expensive repairs. In some cases, termite infestations can cause structural damage that can compromise the integrity of a building. In general, addressing termite infestations promptly can prevent further damage to structures and maintain a secure living environment.

How to Tell the Difference Between Ants and Termites

It’s not uncommon for termites and ants to be mistaken for one another, as both are small insects that share some similarities. However, there are several critical differences that can help you tell them apart:

Body Shape and Colour

Termites have a straight, broad waist and a uniform body colour that ranges from white to light brown. They also have straight antennae that are beaded or segmented.

Ants, on the other hand, have a narrow waist and a body that is divided into three sections. They can be a variety of colours, including black, brown, red, or yellow. Ants also have elbowed antennae.

Wings

Both reproductive termites and ants have wings, although they each make up a small percentage of their overall populations. 

Termite wings are equal in size and shape, and they are often longer than the termite’s body. They are also clear or lightly tinted and have a few veins.

Ant wings, on the other hand, are unequal in size, with the front wings being longer than the back wings. They are often brown or black and have many veins.

Habitat

Termites are typically found in damp or humid environments, and they feed on wood or other cellulose-based materials. They often create mud tubes to travel between their nest and their food source.

Ants, on the other hand, can be found in a variety of environments, including dry areas, and they feed on a wide range of foods, including insects, plants, and other animals. They do not typically create mud tubes.

Behaviour

Termites are social insects that live in large colonies and work together to gather food and build their nests. They are often active at night and are attracted to light sources.

Ants are also social insects that live in colonies, but their behaviour can vary depending on the species. Some ants are active during the day, while others are nocturnal. They are not typically attracted to light sources.

By observing these differences, you can determine whether the insects in your home or property are termites or ants. If you are unsure, it is best to seek professional termite control services in Toronto.

Protect Your Property from Termites

Termites can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, so it is important to take steps to be proactive regarding these destructive pests. Here are some ways to do so:

• Reduce moisture: Termites are attracted to moisture. As a result, it’s best to fix any leaks or water damage, ensure proper drainage around the building, and use dehumidifiers if necessary.
• Keep wood away from the building: Avoid storing wood or wood debris near your home or business, as it can attract termites. If wood must be stored nearby, make sure it is elevated and off the ground. Shrubs and trees may create ideal moisture conditions that attract termites, so it is best to plant these a few feet away from the foundation of your structure.
• Use termite-resistant materials: When building or renovating, consider using termite-resistant materials such as concrete, steel, or treated lumber.
• Seal cracks and crevices: Review your property’s exterior for potential entry points, and apply a sealant to these areas to prevent termites from entering.
• Conduct regular inspections: Regular inspections by your Orkin Canada Pro can help identify termite activity early and prevent significant damage. We may install preventative measures around your property as an added precaution following inspections.

Termite Control in Toronto

At Orkin Canada, we offer effective and customized solutions for termites in Toronto. Our team of experienced technicians will inspect your property and identify the presence of these insects and the extent of the infestation. We use a variety of methods to eliminate termites depending on their location. We also offer preventative measures to ensure that termites do not return to your property in the future.

Residential and Commercial Termite Control in Toronto

Supporting both residential and commercial clients is part of what we do at Orkin Canada. Our team understands that your needs for termite control in Toronto can differ depending on the type of property you own. No matter the building, we will ensure a comprehensive service focused on complete removal. All of our services include:

1. A thorough inspection of your property from top to bottom, including identifying potential entry points and the central area of the problem. Once complete, we’ll provide you with an accurate diagram, a description of the structure, and issues to be addressed.
2. A strategic plan designed to cover all aspects of your termite infestation, including preliminary removal, targeted applications, ongoing treatments, and preventative measures.
3. Expert advice regarding how to keep termites from coming back, along with other precautionary measures that are tailored to your specific property and situation.

Residential 

Within your home, termites may build their mounds in hidden areas such as your basement or other less-frequented spaces. Your local Orkin Pro is skilled in identifying and promptly removing these pests, allowing you to regain confidence in your space. Our services are available for all residential buildings, including detached, semi-detached, condos, townhouses, duplexes, split-levels, and bungalows.

Commercial 

Commercial termite control often means dealing with larger, more complex buildings than residential termite control. Not to worry, as your Orkin Canada Pro has the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to be able to handle these spaces effectively, given their size and scope. We provide support to various industries, including food processing facilities, hospitals, office buildings, warehouses, and more.

Contact Orkin Canada Today

If you suspect that you have a termite infestation in your property, an inspection from our highly trained termite Pros can confirm your concerns. At Orkin Canada, we offer safe and effective termite control services for property owners throughout Toronto. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and learn more about our services.