Termites are beneficial to the environment, but their presence in homes and other structures can be devastating. Identifying and treating termites is an essential part of home ownership.

Step 1: Subterranean termites live in the ground and build tunnels from their nests to their food supply. When a colony becomes too large, a group of termites will swarm from their nest, usually in the spring or fall, in search of a new home. Flying termites can be distinguished from flying ants by their straight antennae, broad waist and equally-sized wings. If a swarm of termites appear in the home, call a professional termite inspector to locate and treat the nesting termites.

Step 2: Mud tunnels running up from the ground onto a structure, hanging down from joists and rafters, or running up walls are additional signs of subterranean termites. Break open the tunnels to reveal termite activity. Remove the tunnels. If the tunnels reappear, call a professional for proper treatment.

Step 3: Small colonies of subterranean termites that are not located near the home can potentially be treated with over-the-counter termite stakes. Success with the use of stakes is limited. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly and continue to monitor the area for additional signs of termite activity. If the problem persists, call a professional.

Step 4: Drywood termites live inside the wood they are consuming. Drywood termites tunnel across the grain of the wood, eating from the inside out. These termites often create small holes in the wood, below which their droppings can be found. Tap on wood with a hammer or screwdriver and listen for a hollow sound to determine if termites are present. Poke at the wood with a sharp tool, such as a dental pick, to expose the damage inside. Removal of damaged wood and professional treatment are the two most effective methods for eliminating drywood termites.

Step 5: Small infestations of termites can be killed on contact with several over-the-counter pesticides, including Permethrin and Deltamethrin. Infested wood can also be soaked with disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (a boric acid solution) to kill existing termites and prevent future infestations for a short period of time.

Step 6: Prevent termites by keeping wood piles, mulch and shrubs away from the home. Pick up yard waste, screen vents and windows, keep basements dry, and protect wooden surfaces with a fresh coat of paint.

— Have a home improvement question for the Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at features@ljworld.com.