You too can be a termite terminator

It’s estimated that about 2 million homes will need termite treatment this year. Unfortunately, there is no insurance policy that covers termite damage. But there are things you can do to spot and correct this problem quickly.

First, don’t confuse termites with winged ants. Although similar in size and color, flying ants have a slim waist, hard body and double wings that are unequal in length; termites have a soft round body and two pairs of wings equal in length. And the termite’s antenna are straight, not bent.

If you find them, here are a few things that should be done:

* Cracks in stucco and concrete and gaps in siding should be sealed, and everything should be painted or stained.

* Soil around a home’s foundation should be 8 inches below the walls and drain away from the house.

* All wood-like stairs and railings should have concrete footings or piers to avoid ground contact.

* Finally, find and correct all leaks inside and out, because these pests love damp wood.