Monsoon Termite Infestation: Why Chennai Homes Get Hit Hardest
Invariably every October, the query goes thus – “Flying insects all over my hall, what do they mean?” The reason is termites, and this infestation is not usually triggered by the first shower, but rather shows itself after the first torrential rains. Why is it more prevalent in Chennai and what should be done to deal with it this week?
1. Why Rain Triggers Them
They thrive on moisture, so colonies underground are triggered to head towards the wettest parts – your walls, the wooden framework of your house, etc. This is home-delivery for termites.
The following are signs you must look out for,
- Activity in the soil
- Swarmers – the flying insects
- Wood consumption
2. Why Chennai?
It could be the dampness of the coastal town, or the construction material used, or both. Plywood wardrobes, false ceilings and modular kitchens, all with hollow cores are the order of the day now. A two year old flat I dealt with last month (beautiful interiors, one might add) had the back panel of the wardrobe, all lace.
The reasons are as follows:
- Humidity due to coast
- Easy availability of Plywood
- Hidden cavities
3. Those Insects Circling the Tube Light
The swarmers (flying termites) that are seen circling the tube-lights post the first shower are the reproductive termites, who are on a mission to begin new colonies and the fact that they are indoors signals that there is a colony close by, and possibly inside the house too, but closer. They will infest and breed fast, so don’t be tempted to kill them and be done with them. Check windowsills for the wings they shed, and likewise if they are seen circling electrical switches, they are a sure sign of an infestation close by.
The signs to look out for are,
- Mud tubes on the walls
- Hollow sound when tapping wood
- Bubbling paint
- Pellets of wood
- Sagging doorframes
4. The Real Termite Treatment
It is not as simple as a spray along the skirting board. The actual professional treatment for termites is for the technician to drill holes into the floorboards and inject termiticides into the soil as well as the woodwork, to create a barrier against further attack. It will be a few hours before the family can return, but modern day treatments do not leave lingering odours in the house. The Best Termite Control In Chennai will decide the treatment based on whether the house is new or old, or whether the furniture is more at risk.
The following are some common methods of treatment:
| Treatment | For Use When | How It Works |
| Treatment | For post construction, old houses or furniture treatment for existing infestation | by drilling holes into the floor and injecting the termiticide into the soil and wood |
| Creating a barrier using powder or liquid solution | For new constructions, by using it on the foundation itself | Creating a barrier using powder or liquid solution |
| Baiting | The colony is wiped out | by making it consume a slow acting poison |
| Wood treatment | Wood protection | Using a solution that protects the wood from attack |
5. Preparation Beforehand
It is a good idea to do a little cleaning up yourself before the technician arrives, to give him a helping hand. However, it is important not to use any random sprays you happen to find in the pantry, over the infested spot, as it will only make the termites vacate, but reappear elsewhere.
The following should be done:
- Clear furniture out
- Deal with any leaking pipes
- Take photographs of the affected areas
6. Who to Choose
There are many pest control companies who promise to cure your termite worries and not all of them are up to the task. It is a good idea to ask for a free inspection, product details and a warranty before they take a drill to your walls. While short-listing the Best Termite Control In Chennai, ask them about the warranty they provide and for how long. It is always the fine print that lets you know if they really mean it.
Where JCS Pest Control Fits In
Each home has its own needs, and no company can fit every home, I’ll grant you that. However, JCS Pest Control inspects your house first, and only then advises you on a course of treatment for the house, flat or office, to tackle termites, cockroaches, ants, rodents, mosquitoes or whatever the problem is. Amongst the Best Pest Control Services In Chennai, the difference is made often in the second visit, and it is where JCS Pest Control shines through. They also provide termite control in Chennai for new and old structures.
What’s Trending This Monsoon
Some trends in the current season are as follows:
- Preference for herbal termiticides with less odour
- Pre-construction treatment for new flats
- Annual inspection plans and moisture-meter tests
A Few Quick Field Tips
- Do not store wood on wet floors
- Attend to terrace leaks and wall seepages
- Keep cardboard away from walls
- Schedule inspections, before the rain and not after
FAQs
Why do termites come out after rains?
Moisture induces termite activity in the soil and causes the swarmers to leave their colonies.
Are flying termites dangerous?
They are usually not dangerous, but are an indicator of a colony nearby, which will cause damage.
How long does it take for anti-termite treatment to wear off?
It varies according to the product used, and the warranty provided will be valid for a specific time.
Can termites damage a new flat?
Yes, especially if made of Plywood, with internal hollow cores
Is termite treatment safe for infants and pets?
Yes, if done using the products recommended by a professional company.
Wrapping Up
Termites never go on holiday, and the Chennai monsoon is a welcome vacation for them. Check your wooden furniture and walls this week, and invest in the Best Termite Control In Chennai service you can find. For a company that informs you before treating the infestation, JCS Pest Control is one of the Best Pest Control Services In Chennai, one call away.