Subterranean Termites in Your Home
Termites are likely to flourish in the warm spring weather. As we enjoy the weather changes, it is important to be wary of termite swarms or infestations. While there are different species of termites, subterranean termites will be the culprit of termite issues in our region.
Once the termites have infiltrated your home, the colony can chew through your floors, walls, and carpeting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.These fast workers chew around the clock, so it is very important to check your home to catch these critters as fast as possible. Below you can find more information on subterranean termites, where to check your home for them, and what actions to take if you find an infestation.
Determining if You Have Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites live in underground colonies and make their mark by feeding on wood and other cellulose materials such as wallpaper, books, and insulation.
They are social insects that live in colonies and build tunnels and mud tubes to connect the colony to its food source – YOUR HOME! These termite species are one of the most destructive, causing billions of dollars in damage to homes and structures each year.
Soldier termites are responsible for defending the colony from predators, while reproductives (also known as swarmers) are responsible for starting new colonies. Once the termite colony is inside your home it can cause significant damage.
How To Find Subterranean Termite Colonies
Subterranean termites can be hard to uncover since they live underground and build their colonies out of sight. These sneaky pests enter homes and other structures through wood that is in contact with the soil or through cracks and gaps in the foundation, doing damage from the inside out.
Here are some areas to check for the presence of subterranean termites:
- Basement/Crawl Space: Check for termite activity in the basement or crawl space. Check for mud tubes, wood damage, or discarded wings.
- Wood Structures: Inspect any wooden structures in your yard, such as fences, decks, or sheds.
- Trees and stumps: Subterranean termites can also infest your yard in trees and stumps.
- Attic: Check the attic for signs of termite activity, such as discarded wings or mud tubes. Although subterranean termites typically do not infest attics, they can enter through cracks in the roof.
- Foundation: Check for any entry points where termites could get into your home. Also, look for mud tubes along the foundation walls. These tubes are built by termites as a way to travel between their colony and their food source (i.e. – YOUR WALLS).
Actions You Need to Take
It’s important to take preventative measures to protect your home from these home-wrecking pests. However, if you find termites in your home or property, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. Here are some steps you can take:
- Identify the extent of the infestation: Check all areas of your home, including the foundation, basement, and attic for signs of termite damage or activity.
- Determine the best treatment option: Depending on the severity of the infestation, the pest control company may recommend a variety of treatment options.
- Repair any termite damage: Repair any damage termites may have caused, including replacing damaged wood or drywall.
- Take steps to prevent future infestations: To prevent future termite infestations, get started with Bug Zero’s InsectaShield® protection plan today.
- Contact a professional pest control company: A professional pest control specialist can assess the situation, recommend a treatment plan, and provide ongoing monitoring and prevention.
Remember, the quicker you identify and address a termite infestation, the easier and less expensive it will be to eliminate the problem and prevent further damage. Reach out to your local pest control company and book an appointment with a specialist.
Check to ensure they are certified and licensed to treat termites. Call Bug Zero to ensure your pest issues are taken care of promptly and effectively to get your home back on track.