It's estimated that some 2 million homes will need termite treatment this year. Unfortunately, unlike with fire, there is no insurance policy that covers termite damage.

However, there are things you can do to spot and quickly correct this problem.

Don't confuse termites with winged ants. While 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 antennae are straight, not bent.

Whether you find them or not, here are a few things you should always do:

Seal cracks in stucco and concrete and gaps in siding, and paint or stain everything.

Soil around foundations should be 8 inches below walls and drain away from the house.

All woodlike stairs and railings should have concrete footings or piers to avoid ground contact.

Find and remedy all leaks inside and out, because these little pests love damp wood.

The Associated Press