Dealing With Termites In Your Furniture

When you think of termites, you might think of wood-chewing bugs that live inside the walls of homes. While termites can feast on the wood frames and supports of homes, they can also use furniture as a tasty treat. Fortunately, there are a few ways to prevent and treat termite infestations in your furniture.

Use Dehumidifiers

Termites are attracted to dark, damp conditions. Keeping your furniture dry is one way to help keep them away. If your home tends to be humid, or if you have wood furniture in your basement, consider using dehumidifiers to help reduce moisture. This step is also a great option if you suspect termites in the walls, as the more you can dry your home, the less desirable it will be.

Clean Furniture Often

Keeping wood furniture clean is another way to prevent infestations, and regular cleanings can make it easier to spot signs of a potential problem. Use a vacuum cleaner on any furnishings with hard-to-reach corners, and be sure to wipe down the insides of drawers and cabinets as well as the exterior surfaces.

Have Your Furniture Treated

You can have your furniture treated with termite-resistant finishes and varnishes, which will help keep the insects away while also helping to keep your furnishings in great condition. If you aren't sure which types of finishes and varnishes to use, partner with a pest control company, like Alliance Pest Management, Inc., for advice. They can help you find the right products, which you can then apply yourself or have a furniture restoration expert apply for you.

Call In The Experts

If you see signs of an infestation, despite your best efforts, it's time to call your pest control expert for advice. In some cases, you may want to toss out inexpensive furniture instead of keeping it. However, it's a good idea to still have these pieces treated chemically to get rid of the termite infestation. Failure to do so might end with your termites making their way to a neighbor's home, and even right back into yours. For furnishings you want to keep, discuss the best course of action to keep the furniture in great shape while getting rid of the termites. Some options include intense heat therapy and chemical treatments.

If you notice significant damage to your furniture after the termites have been abated, consider hiring a restoration expert to restore the natural beauty of each piece. Some termite damage can be covered up or repaired.