Your Investment Can Become A Snack (NAPSA}Thebiggest investment most people ever makeis their homes, and yet many homeowners may unknowingly be letting that investment become a snack for raiding 7 . ~— termites. Termite activity can result in tens of thousands of dollars in damageto individual homes, adding up to a totalof $1 billion in the U.S. each year. According to recent estimates, about 452 average-sized homes could be constructed with the amountof wood that termites chew in a year. The most serious problem caused by termites is structural damage, but other at-risk areas include flooring, carpeting, artwork, books, clothing, furniture and valuable papers. “The biggest concern with termites is that the insects remain undetected while they do their damage,” said Faith Oi, assistant extension scientist at the University of Florida. Home remedies only spot treat an infestation, but do not prevent termites from invading therest of the home, says Oi. That’s one reason it is importantto hire a professional to protect your home. “If termites are a problem in your home, or even if you just want to makesure they are not, you should call a pest professional to inspect or treat your home,”said Oi. Consulting with professionals is Unchecked, one termite colony can eat a wall stud in four to six months. That can add up to serious damage. important because they have access to the latest and most effective termiticides. For example, one of the newest options they can offer is Phantom termiticide-insecticide, which has been shown to be extremely effective in eliminating termites. Phantom is a nonrepellent, which meanstermites pass through treated areas without even knowing they have been exposed to the product. That means they can continue their normalactivity and, at the same time, spread Phantom throughout the colony and wipe out the entire population. And, aside from eliminating termites, Phantom also controls ants and cockroaches. For more information on how to protect your homeorto learn more about Phantom, consult a pest control professional.
